mineral
Polished red jasper and carnelian-like stones
Jasper: microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), commonly colored by iron oxides; translucent piece may be carnelian, a chalcedony variety
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; red-orange to brown, opaque to slightly translucent, waxy to vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline quartz with no visible cleavage. The pieces appear tumbled or polished, with possible natural banding or brecciation.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; red-orange to brown, opaque to slightly translucent, waxy to vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline quartz with no visible cleavage. The pieces appear tumbled or polished, with possible natural banding or brecciation.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich groundwater fills cavities or replaces sedimentary/volcanic rock, with iron producing the red coloration. Deposits occur in many ages, commonly in volcanic and sedimentary environments.
Uses & applications
Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, worry stones, and decorative objects; jasper is inexpensive and popular in lapidary work.
Geological facts
Jasper and carnelian are varieties of chalcedony or microcrystalline quartz; color intensity commonly reflects hematite or other iron-oxide inclusions.
Field identification & locations
Identify by testing hardness against ordinary steel or glass, observing the opaque red body and waxy polish, and checking for quartz-like conchoidal fracture. Common sources include India, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, Mexico, and the western United States.
