mineral

Polished orange jasper

Jasper, an opaque microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂), colored by iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; orange-red with cream-colored swirling bands, opaque, and typically waxy to vitreous when polished. Quartz has a trigonal crystal structure, but jasper’s crystals are too fine to see; it has no distinct cleavage and conchoidal fracture.

Identified October 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms as silica-rich material fills or replaces rock, with iron oxides producing the color and patterns. Jasper occurs in many geological ages and settings; the specimen’s precise source cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, decorative objects, and collections.

Geological facts

Jasper is a variety of chalcedony, not a separate mineral species; its patterns and colors vary widely.

Field identification & locations

A polished, rounded piece with opaque color and intricate patterns is typical of jasper; it is found worldwide, including in volcanic and sedimentary terrains. A scratch test on an inconspicuous spot can help distinguish quartz-rich jasper from softer lookalikes.