sedimentary

Polished leopard-skin jasper

Jasper, a microcrystalline quartz variety (SiO₂), with iron-oxide and other mineral impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque brown, reddish-brown, cream, and gray patterning; glassy to waxy luster after polishing; cryptocrystalline quartz with no visible cleavage. Specific gravity is typically 2.5–2.7.

Identified August 11, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Polished leopard-skin jasper in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement fine-grained volcanic or sedimentary material, with iron oxides creating the mottled patterns. Deposits are generally ancient, commonly Precambrian to Paleozoic, though age varies by locality.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, polished stones, and decorative objects; occasionally used as a minor ornamental stone in tile or interiors.

Geological facts

The “leopard-skin” pattern is a trade description rather than a strict mineral species and can overlap with orbicular jasper or rhyolitic jasper.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque, nontranslucent body, fine-grained texture, hardness, and irregular earthy patterns; common sources include Mexico, Madagascar, Australia, and the western United States. A glassy polish and lack of crystal faces distinguish it from many crystalline gems.