mineral

Red jasper (tumbled)

Jasper, microcrystalline quartz/chalcedony (SiO₂) colored mainly by iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque brick-red to orange, polished with a vitreous-to-waxy luster; hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, no visible cleavage, cryptocrystalline structure, and specific gravity around 2.5–2.7. The specimen appears artificially tumbled and polished.

Identified August 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids cement or replace sediments and volcanic material, with iron oxides producing the red color. Deposits occur in many ages, commonly in Precambrian volcanic-sedimentary terrains.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, lapidary objects, ornaments, and inexpensive metaphysical products; rarely used as a decorative building stone.

Geological facts

Jasper is a variety of opaque chalcedony rather than a single strictly defined mineral species. Red coloration is typically caused by hematite or other finely dispersed iron oxides.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque red body color, fine texture, lack of cleavage, and resistance to scratching; it should not be scratched by a steel knife easily. Common sources include India, Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, Australia, and the United States.