sedimentary

Small brown jasper or chert fragment

Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), likely iron-stained jasper/chert

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque tan-to-brown, waxy to dull luster, irregular fracture; quartz hardness about 7 Mohs, with no visible cleavage. The image does not show enough detail to distinguish jasper confidently from other brown silica-rich stones.

Identified September 29, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Silica-rich sediment or volcanic fluids formed the microcrystalline quartz; iron oxides imparted the brown color. Formation age and exact environment cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Jasper and chert are used for lapidary work, beads, small carvings, and historically for tools; this fragment appears too small for typical commercial use.

Geological facts

Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony, while chert is a broader term for dense microcrystalline quartz. Both can show brown coloration from iron-bearing impurities.

Field identification & locations

A hard surface and lack of fizz with dilute acid support quartz-rich material; a fresh broken surface is more diagnostic than this worn fragment. Similar material occurs worldwide in sedimentary and volcanic settings.