mineral

Rough jasper, possibly brecciated jasper

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

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Mohs hardness 6.5–7; opaque, mottled rusty red, ochre, and cream, with a vitreous to dull/waxy luster. Microcrystalline quartz; no visible cleavage and typically fractures conchoidally or irregularly.

Identified October 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Silica-rich fluids or sediment can replace or fill rock, with iron oxides supplying the color; the specimen’s exact geological age and setting cannot be determined from the photo.

Uses & applications

Commonly cut and polished for beads, cabochons, carvings, and display; also collected as a rough specimen.

Geological facts

Jasper is a form of chalcedony, and its iron-rich patterns create many named varieties. The visible banding and fractures may reflect multiple stages of mineral deposition.

Field identification & locations

Look for opaque silica-rich material, earthy iron-oxide colors, and hardness sufficient to scratch glass; confirm with a hardness test, since appearance alone is not definitive. Jasper occurs worldwide, including Brazil, India, Madagascar, Australia, and the western United States.