mineral

Tumbled dendritic jasper

Cryptocrystalline quartz (chalcedony), SiO₂, with manganese/iron-oxide dendrites

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; cream, tan, olive, and brown with branching dark inclusions; waxy to vitreous luster, opaque to slightly translucent, and no visible cleavage. Its rounded shape and polish indicate human tumbling.

Identified August 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Silica-rich groundwater filled cavities and fractures, while manganese or iron oxides formed the dark, plant-like dendritic patterns. Chalcedony deposits are generally young to Paleozoic or younger, depending on locality.

Uses & applications

Used for inexpensive cabochons, beads, carvings, tumbled stones, and lapidary displays; not usually used as a major construction stone.

Geological facts

The dark markings can resemble fossils or moss but are usually inorganic mineral dendrites. “Dendritic jasper” is a trade name rather than a formally precise mineral species.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque cream-brown chalcedony body, branching oxide patterns, glassy polish, and lack of true banding or cleavage. Similar material occurs in Madagascar, India, Brazil, Mexico, and the western United States.