Red jasper pebble

Typically opaque brick-red to brown, with a dull to subtly waxy luster; hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, no cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and specific gravity near 2.6. The rounded, smooth shape indicates natural water wear or tumbling.

Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement fine-grained sediments or volcanic material, with hematite/goethite producing the red color. Individual pieces may range from Precambrian to much younger geological ages depending on the source.

Used as an ornamental and lapidary stone for cabochons, beads, carvings, polished stones, and decorative objects; rarely used as aggregate. Common specimens generally have modest value.

Jasper is a variety of chalcedony or microcrystalline quartz, though its opaque, iron-rich appearance distinguishes it from translucent agate. Patterns and color intensity can make some varieties collectible.

Identify it by its opaque red-brown color, very fine grain, lack of visible crystals, and ability to scratch glass; it should not fizz with dilute hydrochloric acid. Common sources include river gravels and volcanic or sedimentary terrains worldwide, especially India, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, and the western United States.