mineral

Tumbled brown jasper

Microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony), chiefly SiO₂, with iron-oxide impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque to slightly translucent brown, tan, and reddish material with a waxy-to-glassy polish; Mohs hardness about 6.5–7, no cleavage, cryptocrystalline quartz structure, and specific gravity around 2.6. The rounded shape and high polish indicate human tumbling.

Identified September 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement volcanic, sedimentary, or hydrothermal material, with iron oxides producing the warm colors. Deposits occur in many geologic ages and settings worldwide; the image cannot establish a specific locality or age.

Uses & applications

Used for inexpensive cabochons, beads, carvings, worry stones, lapidary objects, and decorative pieces; it has little construction use compared with ordinary quartzite.

Geological facts

Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony and is often marketed under locality or pattern names such as picture jasper, mookaite, or ocean jasper, though the pictured material cannot be assigned confidently to one variety.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque earthy colors, very fine texture, quartz-like hardness, and lack of visible large crystals; it should scratch glass but not be scratched by a steel blade. Common sources include India, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, and the United States.