mineral

Tumbled red jasper

Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) with iron-oxide inclusions

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque reddish-brown, fine-grained, waxy to dull luster, no visible crystals or cleavage; Mohs hardness about 6.5–7 and specific gravity roughly 2.5–2.7. The rounded shape indicates mechanical tumbling and polishing.

Identified August 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement sedimentary or volcanic material, with hematite/goethite producing the red color; deposits range from Precambrian to younger ages. Common sources include India, Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the western United States.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, polished stones, and inexpensive ornamental objects; minor decorative aggregate is also produced.

Geological facts

Its red coloration is caused mainly by finely disseminated iron oxides rather than crystalline red minerals. It is a variety of chalcedony or microcrystalline quartz, though “jasper” commonly includes impure silica-rich rocks.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opaque red-to-brown body color, very fine texture, lack of cleavage, and ability to scratch glass; it typically does not fizz in dilute hydrochloric acid. The exact variety cannot be confirmed from the photograph alone.