gemstone

Polished ocean jasper / orbicular jasper beads

Microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony), chiefly SiO₂, with iron- and manganese-bearing inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically hardness 6.5–7 Mohs, opaque to slightly translucent, with green, red, brown, gray, and cream colors; vitreous-to-waxy luster and no visible cleavage. The spherical beads are polished and may show orbicular or brecciated patterns.

Identified September 4, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Polished ocean jasper / orbicular jasper beads
Scientific name: Microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony), chiefly SiO₂, with iron- and manganese-bearing inclusions
Category: gemstone
Identified: September 4, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a small strand of ordinary beads; $30–$150+ for unusually vivid, well-patterned, high-quality strands.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms from silica-rich volcanic fluids filling cavities and fractures, with later mineral growth producing orbicular markings; Madagascar is the classic source, generally associated with Cenozoic volcanic rocks. The beads are human-cut and polished.

Uses & applications

Used for jewelry, beads, cabochons, carvings, and lapidary collectibles; it is valued mainly for attractive pattern and color rather than rarity of the material itself.

Geological facts

“Ocean jasper” is a trade name commonly applied to orbicular jasper from Madagascar, not a single formally defined mineral species. Patterns may include concentric eyes, mottling, dendrites, or brecciation.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque chalcedony body, glassy polish, mottled/orbicular patterns, and hardness sufficient to scratch ordinary glass; distinguish from dyed agate or glass by checking pattern depth and internal inclusions. Commonly found in Madagascar, with similar jasper from several regions.