metamorphic
Tumbled greenish jasper
Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) with iron-bearing and clay-mineral impurities
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectOpaque olive-green to tan, waxy-to-dull luster, fine-grained and massive with no visible crystals or cleavage; quartz hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, specific gravity roughly 2.55–2.70. The rounded, glossy surface indicates tumbling or polishing.
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Physical properties
Opaque olive-green to tan, waxy-to-dull luster, fine-grained and massive with no visible crystals or cleavage; quartz hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, specific gravity roughly 2.55–2.70. The rounded, glossy surface indicates tumbling or polishing.
Formation & geological history
Jasper forms when silica-rich groundwater cements or replaces sediments and volcanic material, commonly with iron and other impurities producing green, brown, and red colors. Its exact geological age cannot be determined from the photograph; deposits occur in rocks ranging from Precambrian to younger ages.
Uses & applications
Used as a lapidary stone for cabochons, beads, carvings, décor, and inexpensive collectibles; it has little industrial value compared with ordinary quartz or aggregate.
Geological facts
The specimen’s muted olive color and granular appearance are consistent with common green jasper, though serpentine, altered volcanic rock, or another green silica-rich stone could look similar.
Field identification & locations
Field identification relies on opacity, fine texture, absence of cleavage, and resistance to scratching; glass or steel should not easily scratch genuine jasper. Common sources include India, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, and the western United States.
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