mineral
Tumbled jasper, likely picture jasper or brecciated jasper
Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), chiefly chalcedony with iron-oxide pigments
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque reddish-brown with muted cream/orange patterns and a smooth vitreous-to-waxy polish. Massive, cryptocrystalline, with no visible cleavage and specific gravity around 2.5–2.7.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque reddish-brown with muted cream/orange patterns and a smooth vitreous-to-waxy polish. Massive, cryptocrystalline, with no visible cleavage and specific gravity around 2.5–2.7.
Formation & geological history
Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement volcanic ash, sediments, or fragmented rock, with iron oxides producing the red-brown color. Its exact geological age depends on its deposit; the pictured piece is human-tumbled and polished.
Uses & applications
Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, decorative objects, and lapidary collections; it has little industrial value.
Geological facts
Jasper is a variety of opaque chalcedony and is often grouped commercially by pattern or locality rather than by strict mineral species.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its opaque appearance, earthy iron staining, fine-grained texture, lack of cleavage, and resistance to scratching; it should not be scratched by a steel knife. Common sources include the western United States, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, and India.
