mineral

Tumbled picture jasper

Microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), commonly with iron-oxide and clay inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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.

Identified August 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

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.