mineral

Tumbled red jasper

Jasper, an opaque, microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Likely Mohs hardness 6.5–7; opaque brick-red to reddish-brown with pale veining and a polished, waxy-to-vitreous luster. Quartz crystals are microscopic, so no visible crystal faces or cleavage; specific gravity is about 2.6.

Identified October 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms as silica-rich fluids fill cavities or replace material in rocks, with iron compounds producing the red color. Jasper occurs in rocks of many ages; the pictured stone has been tumbled and polished.

Uses & applications

Commonly used for beads, cabochons, ornaments, and lapidary collecting; it has little industrial use compared with other quartz materials.

Geological facts

Jasper is an ornamental variety of chalcedony, and its patterns and colors arise from impurities and inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Red color, opacity, hardness, and lack of cleavage are typical clues; it is found worldwide, including in Brazil, India, and the western United States. The small polished specimen cannot be assigned a specific locality from appearance alone.