mineral

Tumbled orange chalcedony or jasper

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂; likely iron-stained chalcedony/jasper

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; orange-yellow, opaque to slightly translucent, with a waxy to dull luster and no visible cleavage. Its rounded surfaces indicate natural abrasion or tumbling; exact identification requires translucency and texture tests.

Identified September 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich groundwater fills cavities or fractures, with iron oxides producing the orange color; commonly Cenozoic to older, depending on host rock. It may also be a weathered volcanic or sedimentary silica nodule.

Uses & applications

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

Geological facts

Jasper is opaque and commonly patterned, whereas chalcedony is often faintly translucent at thin edges. An iron-oxide orange color may resemble carnelian, but carnelian is typically more translucent.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found as stream pebbles and nodules in volcanic or sedimentary terrains worldwide, including Brazil, India, Madagascar, and the western United States. A streak, translucency test, and microscope examination can distinguish jasper from carnelian or chalcedony.