Rock Identifier
Tumbled orbicular jasper (probable) (Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), with iron- and clay-rich inclusions) — mineral
mineral

Tumbled orbicular jasper (probable)

Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), with iron- and clay-rich inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque, rounded and polished, with cream, gray-blue, and dark bands or orbicular patches. Quartz hardness is about 6.5–7 Mohs; vitreous to waxy luster and no visible cleavage. The image is slightly blurred, so exact identification is limited.

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Physical properties

Opaque, rounded and polished, with cream, gray-blue, and dark bands or orbicular patches. Quartz hardness is about 6.5–7 Mohs; vitreous to waxy luster and no visible cleavage. The image is slightly blurred, so exact identification is limited.

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement volcanic ash, breccia, or sediment, incorporating contrasting mineral inclusions; ages vary from Precambrian to younger volcanic sequences. Common examples come from Madagascar, Indonesia, Mexico, and the western United States.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, polished stones, and decorative objects; rarely used as aggregate. Value is mainly ornamental and depends on pattern, polish, and locality.

Geological facts

Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony or microcrystalline quartz, rather than a separately defined mineral species. Strong contrasting patterns generally increase desirability.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque appearance, smooth polish, hardness, and irregular natural pattern; it should not fizz in dilute acid. A sharper image or locality information would be needed to distinguish it from banded agate or other tumbled silica stones.