mineral

Polished orbicular jasper (likely ocean jasper)

Siliceous microcrystalline quartz/chalcedony with iron-oxide and volcanic inclusions; commonly called ocean jasper

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 6.5–7; opaque, multicolored green, orange, yellow, blue, and red patterns with a waxy to vitreous polish. It consists mainly of cryptocrystalline quartz, with no visible cleavage and moderate-to-high specific gravity (~2.6).

Identified September 5, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Polished orbicular jasper (likely ocean jasper)
Scientific name: Siliceous microcrystalline quartz/chalcedony with iron-oxide and volcanic inclusions; commonly called ocean jasper
Category: mineral
Identified: September 5, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $15–$75 for a small polished sphere; $75–$250+ for larger, vividly patterned, verified ocean jasper.

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

Formed when silica-rich fluids silicified volcanic rock and produced orbicular or brecciated patterns, with iron and other minerals creating the colors. Ocean jasper is chiefly associated with Miocene-age volcanic rocks of Madagascar, though similar orbicular jaspers occur elsewhere.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, spheres, beads, carvings, and decorative objects; its value is primarily ornamental and collectible rather than industrial.

Geological facts

The spherical shape is human-made by grinding and polishing; the vivid patterning is natural but may be enhanced by the polish. “Ocean jasper” is a trade name, not a formally distinct mineral species.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque silica-rich body, hardness, lack of cleavage, and intricate orbicular/brecciated pattern; it should resist scratching by a steel knife. Common sources include Madagascar, Mexico, Australia, and the western United States.