sedimentary

Polished picture jasper slab

Silicified/lithified microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony), commonly with iron-oxide and clay-mineral bands

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque cream, brown, red, and yellow with intricate flowing patterns; waxy to dull luster and no visible cleavage. The patterned appearance reflects fine-grained quartz and iron-oxide inclusions rather than large crystals.

Identified September 15, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely formed from silica-rich sediment or volcanic ash that was compacted and cemented, then variably replaced by chalcedony and stained by iron oxides. Exact geological age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph; picture jasper occurs in many volcanic-sedimentary terrains.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, polished slabs, and decorative objects; occasionally sold as lapidary rough. It is primarily an ornamental collectible rather than a construction stone.

Geological facts

The natural, landscape-like banding is called “picture” or scenic jasper; similar material may be marketed as scenic jasper, scenic agate, or petrified wood depending on texture and locality.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque fine-grained body, hardness, smooth conchoidal fracture, and red-brown iron staining; a steel file should not easily scratch it. Common sources include Oregon and Idaho, USA, Mexico, Madagascar, and Australia.