mineral

Polished red jasper (likely brecciated or opaque chalcedony)

Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), commonly colored by iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque reddish-brown with darker internal patches, vitreous to waxy luster, and no visible cleavage. Its rounded, polished form obscures natural grain and fracture.

Identified August 29, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque reddish-brown with darker internal patches, vitreous to waxy luster, and no visible cleavage. Its rounded, polished form obscures natural grain and fracture.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich groundwater fills cavities or replaces volcanic and sedimentary material, with iron oxides producing the red color. Deposits commonly range from Precambrian to Cenozoic age.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, tumbled stones, and ornamental objects; occasionally used as a decorative aggregate. This small polished piece is generally inexpensive.

Geological facts

Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony or microcrystalline quartz; color patterns are often diagnostic of a locality. The dark markings may indicate brecciation, manganese/iron staining, or another included mineral.

Field identification & locations

Common in volcanic terrains and silica-rich sedimentary formations worldwide, including India, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, Mexico, and the western United States. Confirm with a hardness test against glass and inspection for a quartz-like, nonmetallic surface; the image alone cannot establish the exact variety.