mineral
Tumbled red/orange jasper
Jasper, microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony; SiO₂) with iron-oxide impurities
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectOpaque orange-red, fine-grained, waxy to dull luster, and rounded from tumbling or natural abrasion. Mohs hardness 6.5–7; no visible cleavage; cryptocrystalline quartz structure; white areas may be quartz or alteration minerals.
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Physical properties
Opaque orange-red, fine-grained, waxy to dull luster, and rounded from tumbling or natural abrasion. Mohs hardness 6.5–7; no visible cleavage; cryptocrystalline quartz structure; white areas may be quartz or alteration minerals.
Formation & geological history
Forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement volcanic and sedimentary material, with iron oxides producing the red-orange color. Deposits occur in many ages, commonly in volcanic terrains and hydrothermal environments.
Uses & applications
Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, polished stones, and ornamental objects; durable aggregate-quality jasper may also be used decoratively in construction.
Geological facts
Jasper is a variety of opaque chalcedony rather than a single mineral species. Color patterns and names such as ocean, brecciated, or picture jasper depend on texture and locality.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its opacity, hardness, reddish iron staining, and inability to scratch with a steel knife easily; quartz crystal or glass can scratch it. Common sources include India, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, and the western United States.
