mineral

Tumbled jasper

Microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony), SiO₂, with iron-oxide and other mineral impurities

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically opaque, mottled reddish-brown, cream, and tan with a waxy to vitreous luster; hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, no cleavage, cryptocrystalline structure, and specific gravity near 2.6.

Identified September 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Typically opaque, mottled reddish-brown, cream, and tan with a waxy to vitreous luster; hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs, no cleavage, cryptocrystalline structure, and specific gravity near 2.6.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich groundwater fills cavities or replaces volcanic and sedimentary material, with iron oxides producing the red-brown colors. Deposits formed at various ages, commonly in Cenozoic and older volcanic terrains.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, polished stones, lapidary material, and ornamental objects; this appears to be a small tumbled specimen.

Geological facts

Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony rather than a single mineral species; its patterns and colors arise mainly from iron, clay, and other inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by opacity, fine grain, hardness, and resistance to scratching by a steel blade; it commonly occurs in volcanic regions and alluvial gravels worldwide. Exact variety cannot be determined confidently from the photograph alone.