mineral

Red jasper (likely polished/tumbled)

Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) colored by iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque brick-red to brown, glassy-to-waxy luster, irregular conchoidal fracture, no visible cleavage; hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, specific gravity 2.5–2.7. The glossy surface suggests polishing or natural wetness; exact identification is limited by the single image.

Identified September 21, 2026More mineral →

Explore Red jasper (likely polished/tumbled) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids fill cavities or replace volcanic and sedimentary rocks, with iron oxides producing the red color. It occurs in many geological ages, commonly in Precambrian to younger volcanic and sedimentary terrains.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, ornaments, and tumbled stones; crushed jasper has minor decorative aggregate uses. Common pieces generally have modest commercial value.

Geological facts

Its red coloration is mainly hematite or other iron-oxide inclusions within chalcedony and microcrystalline quartz. Jasper is technically a rock composed predominantly of quartz rather than a single pure mineral.

Field identification & locations

Look for opaque red coloration, fine texture, hardness sufficient to scratch glass, and absence of cleavage; it should not fizz in dilute acid. Common sources include India, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, South Africa, and the United States.