mineral

Polished yellow jasper or opaque chalcedony bead

Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), likely iron-oxide-stained jasper

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; mustard-yellow to brown with dark inclusions, opaque to slightly translucent, and typically vitreous-to-waxy luster. It has cryptocrystalline quartz structure, no visible cleavage, and specific gravity near 2.6.

Identified August 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed when silica-rich groundwater filled cavities or replaced rock, with iron oxides producing the yellow-brown color; age depends on its host formation and cannot be determined visually. The spherical shape indicates human polishing, likely as a bead.

Uses & applications

Used for jewelry, beads, carvings, and ornamental objects; common material has modest lapidary value.

Geological facts

Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony, and color zoning or dark dendritic inclusions can resemble scenic patterns. A glassy appearance or bubbles would instead suggest imitation glass.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found in volcanic and sedimentary silica-rich environments, including the western United States, Madagascar, Brazil, India, and Australia. Field clues include uniform fine grain, absence of cleavage, and resistance to scratching by ordinary steel.