mineral

Tumbled quartz-rich chalcedony (likely carnelian or orange jasper)

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂, colored mainly by iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Orange-brown, opaque to slightly translucent, with a dull-to-waxy luster and fine sugary texture; quartz hardness is about 7 Mohs, with no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The rounded shape indicates tumbling or natural abrasion.

Identified September 1, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled quartz-rich chalcedony (likely carnelian or orange jasper)
Scientific name: Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂, colored mainly by iron oxides
Category: mineral
Identified: September 1, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $3-$20 for a small tumbled piece; $20-$75 or more for unusually vivid, translucent, patterned, or expertly cut material.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Silica-rich fluids deposited chalcedony in cavities or fractures, while iron oxidation produced the orange-red coloration; the exact geological age cannot be determined visually. If strongly translucent and evenly red-orange it is carnelian; if opaque and mottled it is more likely orange jasper.

Uses & applications

Used as a lapidary stone for cabochons, beads, carvings, and polished specimens; common pieces have modest decorative and collecting value.

Geological facts

Carnelian is a chalcedony variety, whereas jasper is opaque, impurity-rich quartz. Heating can intensify iron-based red-orange colors.

Field identification & locations

Common in volcanic cavities, sedimentary silica deposits, and alluvial gravels worldwide, including India, Brazil, Uruguay, Madagascar, and the United States. Confirm with a glass-scratch test only if damage is acceptable: quartz should scratch glass.