mineral

Polished orbicular jasper (likely ocean jasper)

Orbicular jasper; chiefly microcrystalline quartz and chalcedony (SiO₂), with assorted mineral inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque polished sphere with green, blue-gray, and tan zones and rounded, eye-like orbicules. Quartz hardness 6.5–7 Mohs; vitreous to waxy luster; microcrystalline structure, no visible cleavage; specific gravity about 2.6.

Identified September 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Silica-rich volcanic material formed the jasper, with later mineral growth producing orbicular patterns; such deposits are generally ancient, commonly Precambrian. Ocean jasper is famously sourced from rhyolitic deposits in Madagascar.

Uses & applications

Used for decorative spheres, cabochons, beads, and lapidary collections; not typically an industrial or construction stone.

Geological facts

The concentric “eyes” are mineral-growth patterns, not fossils. Similar orbicular patterns occur in jaspers from several regions, so the exact variety cannot be confirmed from appearance alone.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque, finely grained body, polished surface, and rounded contrasting orbs; check for natural irregular patterns rather than painted ones. Small polished spheres commonly sell for about $10–$60 USD, depending on size and pattern quality.