mineral

Polished red jasper (likely brecciated jasper)

Jasper, microcrystalline quartz/chalcedony; primarily SiO₂ with iron-oxide coloring

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque deep red to orange-brown with black-gray veins and patches; vitreous to waxy luster when polished, cryptocrystalline structure, hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, no visible cleavage, specific gravity roughly 2.5–2.7.

Identified September 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids cement fine sediments, volcanic ash, or breccia fragments, with hematite/goethite producing the red color; deposits range from Precambrian to Cenozoic depending on locality.

Uses & applications

Used as ornamental stone, cabochons, beads, carvings, paperweights, and lapidary material; durable but generally inexpensive compared with gem minerals.

Geological facts

The dark patterning may indicate brecciation or manganese/iron-rich inclusions; polished jasper commonly receives a very high gloss because of its fine-grained quartz texture.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opacity, red iron-rich color, glassy/waxy polish, and resistance to scratching by a steel knife; common sources include India, Madagascar, Brazil, the United States, Australia, and Mexico.