mineral

Polished red jasper and carnelian specimens

Jasper: microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) colored by iron oxides; carnelian: orange-red chalcedony, also SiO₂

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque to translucent red-orange, waxy to vitreous luster, commonly polished; quartz hardness 6.5–7 Mohs, no cleavage, cryptocrystalline structure, specific gravity about 2.6.

Identified August 15, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Polished red jasper and carnelian specimens
Scientific name: Jasper: microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) colored by iron oxides; carnelian: orange-red chalcedony, also SiO₂
Category: mineral
Identified: August 15, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$15 for small common polished pieces; exceptional patterned or translucent specimens may sell for $20–$100.

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

Opaque to translucent red-orange, waxy to vitreous luster, commonly polished; quartz hardness 6.5–7 Mohs, no cleavage, cryptocrystalline structure, specific gravity about 2.6.

Formation & geological history

Formed when silica-rich groundwater fills cavities or replaces volcanic and sedimentary rock, with iron producing the red color; deposits range from Precambrian to younger geological ages.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, ornaments, and lapidary collections; jasper is also used decoratively in tiles and architectural stone.

Geological facts

The dark red center is likely jasper, while the brighter orange-red pieces may be carnelian or iron-rich jasper; exact identification requires translucency and locality information.

Field identification & locations

Identify by hardness, waxy polish, absence of cleavage, and red/orange iron staining; common sources include Brazil, India, Madagascar, Uruguay, Australia, and the western United States.