mineral

Polished orbicular jasper (likely ocean jasper)

Jasper, a microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂), with iron-oxide and other mineral inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque brown, tan, and pinkish coloration with darker orbicular/banded patches; vitreous to waxy luster when polished; cryptocrystalline quartz with no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The specimen is water-polished or lapidary-polished.

Identified August 10, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Polished orbicular jasper (likely ocean jasper)
Scientific name: Jasper, a microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂), with iron-oxide and other mineral inclusions
Category: mineral
Identified: August 10, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $10–$40 for a small polished palm stone; $50–$200+ for unusually vivid, patterned, or larger specimens.

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 when silica-rich fluids replace or cement volcanic ash and rock, incorporating iron oxides and other minerals; orbicular patterns develop from concentric mineral growth. Ocean jasper is chiefly associated with Miocene volcanic rocks of Madagascar, though similar jasper occurs worldwide.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, carvings, polished stones, jewelry, and decorative objects. Common polished pieces generally have modest value.

Geological facts

Jasper is a variety of chalcedony/microcrystalline quartz rather than a single mineral species. The patterning is natural, but similar-looking jaspers may be dyed or stabilized.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque appearance, fine texture, high polish, and lack of individual quartz crystals; it should resist scratching by a steel blade. Common sources include Madagascar, Brazil, India, Mexico, and the western United States.