mineral
Tumbled red-and-cream jasper
Microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony), SiO₂, colored by iron oxides
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque cream, brick-red, and brown coloration with a dull to waxy luster. It has cryptocrystalline quartz structure, no visible cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and typical specific gravity near 2.6.
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Physical properties
Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque cream, brick-red, and brown coloration with a dull to waxy luster. It has cryptocrystalline quartz structure, no visible cleavage, conchoidal fracture, and typical specific gravity near 2.6.
Formation & geological history
Jasper forms when silica-rich groundwater replaces or cements volcanic ash, sediments, or breccia, with iron oxides producing the red tones; its exact geological age depends on the source deposit. This piece appears naturally rounded or tumbled and polished.
Uses & applications
Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, ornaments, lapidary specimens, and decorative stone; it is not generally used as a major construction aggregate.
Geological facts
The red color commonly comes from hematite or limonite inclusions, while cream areas are silica-rich chalcedony. Jasper is a variety of opaque chalcedony rather than a single mineral species.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its opaque appearance, red iron staining, waxy surface, and ability to scratch ordinary glass; it should not show large quartz crystals. Common sources include India, Madagascar, Brazil, Mexico, and the western United States.
