mineral

Polished Ocean Jasper beads

Orbicular jasper (microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂), commonly sold as ocean jasper

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; multicolored green, cream, tan, and reddish-brown orbicular patterns; vitreous to waxy luster; cryptocrystalline quartz with no visible cleavage. The rounded beads are drilled and polished.

Identified September 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed mainly from silica-rich volcanic material altered and silicified, producing concentric spherulitic or orbicular textures; Madagascar deposits are generally Cenozoic, though exact ages vary by locality.

Uses & applications

Used for necklaces, cabochons, carvings, and decorative objects; valued more for attractive pattern and polish than for industrial applications.

Geological facts

“Ocean jasper” is a lapidary trade name rather than a single formally defined mineral species. Its characteristic orbs may consist of quartz, feldspar, chalcedony, and iron-oxide-rich minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify by opaque multicolored chalcedonic/jasper material with repeated circular orb patterns and a glassy polish; classic material comes from remote coastal areas near Marovato, Madagascar. Similar orbicular jasper occurs elsewhere, so locality claims should be documented.