mineral

Tumbled amber-colored chalcedony (likely carnelian or jasper)

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; iron-bearing variety

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; translucent to opaque mustard-brown/orange color, waxy to vitreous luster, cryptocrystalline quartz with no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The smoothly worn surface suggests a naturally water-rounded or tumbled specimen.

Identified September 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich groundwater fills cavities and fractures, with iron oxides producing the yellow-brown to reddish coloration; commonly Cenozoic to older, depending on host rock. Exact identification requires tests such as hardness, specific gravity, and translucency.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, ornamental objects, and inexpensive collector specimens; larger jasper pieces are also used decoratively.

Geological facts

Carnelian is the more translucent orange-red possibility, while opaque material is generally called jasper. Color can be enhanced by heating or dyeing, though this specimen’s treatment cannot be determined visually.

Field identification & locations

Common in volcanic regions, river gravels, and sedimentary silica deposits worldwide, including India, Brazil, Madagascar, Uruguay, and the western United States. It should scratch glass but not be scratched by a steel knife; beware of similarly colored resin or glass.