mineral

Red jasper (likely)

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

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Reddish-brown, opaque, rough and fractured with a dull to slightly waxy luster. Quartz hardness is about 7 Mohs; the image alone cannot confirm its identity or crystal texture.

Identified October 2, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Reddish-brown, opaque, rough and fractured with a dull to slightly waxy luster. Quartz hardness is about 7 Mohs; the image alone cannot confirm its identity or crystal texture.

Formation & geological history

Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids fill cavities or replace rock, with iron oxides providing the red color. Its age and precise formation environment cannot be determined from the specimen shown.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, and decorative objects; small rough pieces are mainly collected.

Geological facts

Jasper is a variety of chalcedony, made of very fine quartz crystals, and commonly contains mineral impurities that create its colors and patterns.

Field identification & locations

The opaque red-brown color is consistent with jasper, but iron-rich rocks and other materials can look similar; a scratch or streak test and close inspection would help identify it. Jasper occurs worldwide, including in Brazil, India, Australia, and the western United States.