mineral

Polished red jasper pebble

Jasper, an opaque microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂), colored mainly by iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically Mohs 6.5–7; opaque brick-red to reddish-brown, fine-grained, with a vitreous-to-dull luster and no visible cleavage. The smooth shape indicates natural water wear or tumbling/polishing.

Identified August 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Typically Mohs 6.5–7; opaque brick-red to reddish-brown, fine-grained, with a vitreous-to-dull luster and no visible cleavage. The smooth shape indicates natural water wear or tumbling/polishing.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids cement and replace sediment or volcanic material, with iron staining producing the red color; deposits range from Precambrian to younger geological ages. Common sources include India, Madagascar, Brazil, South Africa, and the western United States.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, decorative stones, and lapidary collections; occasionally used as aggregate or ornamental facing stone.

Geological facts

Jasper is technically a rock composed predominantly of cryptocrystalline quartz rather than a single crystal mineral. Red coloration is generally due to hematite or other iron oxides.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque red-brown body, very fine texture, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch glass; unlike red glass, it feels relatively heavy and shows no bubbles. Exact variety cannot be confirmed from the photograph alone.