mineral

Tumbled red jasper (probable)

Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂), colored mainly by iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque brick-red to salmon, smoothly polished, with a dull-to-waxy luster; quartz hardness is about 6.5–7 Mohs, no visible cleavage, and fine-grained cryptocrystalline structure. The small rounded shape indicates tumbling or cutting.

Identified August 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement sediment, volcanic ash, or other rocks, with iron oxides producing the red color. Its age depends on the host formation and may range from Precambrian to relatively young deposits.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, worry stones, and decorative objects; it has modest jewelry and lapidary value.

Geological facts

Red jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony or microcrystalline quartz, unlike transparent red gemstones such as ruby or garnet. Patterns and vivid natural color increase desirability.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque red color, very fine texture, glass-scratching hardness, and lack of cleavage; a streak test should be white to pale red. Common sources include India, Brazil, Madagascar, Australia, and the western United States.