mineral
Polished ornamental jasper (likely Peanut Wood or similar brecciated jasper)
Microcrystalline quartz/chalcedony (SiO₂), with iron-oxide and clay inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; polished vitreous to waxy luster; cream, brown, burgundy, black, and reddish bands with intricate orbicular or flow-like patterns. Massive, non-cleavable, and typically opaque to slightly translucent at thin edges; the irregular shape appears polished or carved.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; polished vitreous to waxy luster; cream, brown, burgundy, black, and reddish bands with intricate orbicular or flow-like patterns. Massive, non-cleavable, and typically opaque to slightly translucent at thin edges; the irregular shape appears polished or carved.
Formation & geological history
Formed when silica-rich groundwater replaced or cemented fine sediment, cavities, or organic material, while iron oxides produced the red-brown coloration. Jasper deposits range from Precambrian to Cenozoic in age, depending on locality.
Uses & applications
Used for cabochons, carvings, display pieces, bookends, and lapidary art; occasionally used as durable decorative stone. Value is primarily aesthetic rather than industrial.
Geological facts
The pattern may resemble plume, brecciated, or scenic jasper; exact identification cannot be confirmed from an image alone. Similar specimens are sold under locality or trade names such as “Mexican jasper” or “Peanut Wood.”
Field identification & locations
Identify by its opaque silica body, strong polish, hardness, and lack of obvious crystal cleavage; a streak test is usually white, and it should resist scratching by a steel knife. Common sources include Mexico, Madagascar, Indonesia, Australia, and the western United States.
