mineral

Polished orbicular jasper

Silica-rich microcrystalline quartz/chalcedony (SiO₂), with iron oxides and green alteration minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; mottled reddish-brown, cream, and green colors; waxy to vitreous luster; cryptocrystalline, massive structure with no obvious cleavage. The rounded, glossy surface indicates tumbling or polishing.

Identified August 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when silica-rich volcanic or hydrothermal fluids replaced or cemented preexisting rock, producing orbicular and brecciated patterns; commonly Cenozoic to older, depending on locality. Exact geological age and variety cannot be determined from the image alone.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, worry stones, and decorative objects; occasionally sold as a lapidary material rather than a fine gemstone.

Geological facts

The green coloration may come from chlorite, epidote, or other alteration minerals, while red-brown areas commonly reflect hematite or iron-rich jasper. “Jasper” is a trade and gemological term for opaque, impure microcrystalline quartz.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque multicolor pattern, very fine texture, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; it should not fizz in dilute acid. Similar materials include rhyolite, brecciated jasper, and ocean jasper.