mineral

Tumbled red jasper (probable)

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

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque reddish-purple, fine-grained, matte to subtly waxy luster, and smoothly rounded from tumbling or natural abrasion. Mohs hardness is about 6.5–7; no visible cleavage and typically conchoidal fracture.

Identified August 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement sediments, often incorporating iron oxides that produce red, brown, or purple colors. It is commonly Precambrian to younger, with age depending on its host formation.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, tumbling, ornaments, and lapidary goods; occasionally as decorative stone. A small tumbled piece generally has modest value.

Geological facts

The purple tone may indicate hematite or manganese-bearing impurities, and exact identification from a photograph is uncertain. Jasper is a variety of chalcedony/microcrystalline quartz rather than a separate mineral species.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found in volcanic and sedimentary terrains worldwide, including India, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, and the western United States. Its opaque color, very fine texture, hardness, and lack of visible grains distinguish it from most ordinary sandstone or softer dyed materials.