mineral

Polished red jasper

Jasper, an opaque microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂); likely iron-oxide colored

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Polished, reddish-brown with a pale vein; quartz has Mohs hardness 7, vitreous-to-waxy luster, and trigonal crystal structure, though jasper’s crystals are too fine to see. The vein may be quartz or another mineral; a photo cannot confirm the exact material.

Identified October 13, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids fill or replace rock, with iron oxides producing red hues. These deposits occur in rocks of many geological ages.

Uses & applications

Commonly cut as cabochons, beads, and ornamental objects; also collected as a decorative stone.

Geological facts

Jasper is a variety of chalcedony, composed of microscopic quartz crystals, and its varied colors and patterns result from impurities and mineral inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Look for an opaque, finely textured stone with distinctive patterns; hardness and streak tests can help distinguish it, but avoid damaging polished pieces. Jasper is found worldwide, including India, Brazil, Australia, and the United States.