mineral
Tumbled jasper, likely ocean or brecciated jasper
Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide and other mineral impurities
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectOpaque, mottled orange, tan, green, and brown stones with a dull to waxy luster; quartz hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, no visible cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. The colors reflect iron oxides and altered silicate minerals.
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Physical properties
Opaque, mottled orange, tan, green, and brown stones with a dull to waxy luster; quartz hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, no visible cleavage, and conchoidal fracture. The colors reflect iron oxides and altered silicate minerals.
Formation & geological history
Jasper forms when silica-rich groundwater replaces or fills cavities in volcanic or sedimentary rocks, commonly with iron-rich staining; individual pieces may be millions to billions of years old. These specimens have been cut or naturally rounded and polished by tumbling.
Uses & applications
Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, decorative stone, and inexpensive collector specimens; occasionally used as lapidary rough. It is not generally used as a major construction stone.
Geological facts
The varied patterns are diagnostic of jasper rather than crystalline quartz. Green areas may reflect chlorite, epidote, or other alteration minerals, while red-orange tones commonly indicate hematite or goethite.
Field identification & locations
Identify by opacity, fine-grained texture, hardness, and resistance to scratching by steel; it should not fizz in dilute acid. Common sources include Oregon, Madagascar, India, Brazil, Australia, and the western United States.
