mineral

Tumbled red jasper and related pebbles

Jasper, a microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂), commonly containing hematite/goethite and other iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque reddish-brown to maroon, earthy to vitreous luster, quartz microcrystals, no visible cleavage, conchoidal fracture; Mohs hardness about 6.5–7 and specific gravity roughly 2.5–2.7. The pieces appear rounded and polished/tumbled, with some darker possibly basaltic or iron-rich fragments.

Identified September 5, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled red jasper and related pebbles
Scientific name: Jasper, a microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂), commonly containing hematite/goethite and other iron oxides
Category: mineral
Identified: September 5, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$15 for the pictured small mixed tumbled pieces; attractive patterned or large quality jasper specimens may sell for $20–$100+.

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

Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement volcanic ash, sediment, or other rock, with iron oxides producing the red coloration. Deposits occur in many ages, from Precambrian iron-formations to younger volcanic and sedimentary settings.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, ornaments, lapidary rough, and decorative stone; occasionally as aggregate or facing stone. Common tumbled pieces have modest commercial value.

Geological facts

Color intensity reflects finely dispersed iron oxides rather than large visible crystals. Jasper is cryptocrystalline quartz and is often difficult to distinguish visually from red chert or heavily iron-stained volcanic rock.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its opaque red-brown color, very hard glassy edges, lack of cleavage, and inability to scratch it with a steel knife easily; it should scratch glass. Common locations include India, Madagascar, Brazil, South Africa, Australia, and the western United States.