mineral
Tumbled picture jasper
Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), commonly with iron-oxide and clay inclusions
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque tan, cream, and rusty-brown coloration with flowing breccia-like patterns; vitreous to dull luster and no visible cleavage. The rounded shape indicates mechanical tumbling and polishing.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque tan, cream, and rusty-brown coloration with flowing breccia-like patterns; vitreous to dull luster and no visible cleavage. The rounded shape indicates mechanical tumbling and polishing.
Formation & geological history
Jasper forms when silica-rich groundwater replaces or cements volcanic ash, sediment, or other rock, with iron oxides creating the brown-red patterns. Its precise age and locality cannot be determined from the photograph; jasper occurs in rocks of many geological ages.
Uses & applications
Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, ornamental objects, and polished specimens; it has little industrial value compared with ordinary quartz aggregate.
Geological facts
“Picture jasper” is a descriptive trade name for patterned jasper, not a single mineral species. The patterns reflect mineral-rich fluids, sedimentary layering, brecciation, or replacement textures.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its opaque patterned body, quartz-like hardness, lack of cleavage, and resistance to scratching by steel; it should not fizz in dilute acid. Common sources include Oregon, Idaho, Utah, Arizona, Madagascar, and Australia.
