mineral

Tumbled yellow jasper (likely serpentine or calcite-rich stone)

Jasper: microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂); exact yellow veining may indicate serpentine, calcite, or iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically hardness 6.5–7 Mohs, opaque, yellow to cream with brown veining, and a smooth waxy-to-dull polish; massive, without visible crystals or cleavage. The pictured piece is consistent with a polished/tumbled siliceous stone, though composition cannot be confirmed visually.

Identified August 10, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled yellow jasper (likely serpentine or calcite-rich stone)
Scientific name: Jasper: microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂); exact yellow veining may indicate serpentine, calcite, or iron oxides
Category: mineral
Identified: August 10, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

Approximately $2–$15 for a common tumbled piece; $20–$50 for unusually attractive patterning or a larger polished specimen.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Jasper forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement volcanic ash, sediments, or altered rock, with iron producing yellow-brown colors; formation ages vary widely from Precambrian to recent. Serpentine-bearing varieties form through hydrothermal alteration of ultramafic rocks.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental stone, cabochon, bead, carving material, and inexpensive lapidary specimen; generally unsuitable for major construction because it is sold in small decorative pieces.

Geological facts

Color patterns commonly result from iron oxides and mineral replacement textures rather than crystal growth. Acid testing, hardness testing, streak, and specific-gravity measurements would help distinguish jasper from calcite or serpentine.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found in altered volcanic and sedimentary terrains, including India, Madagascar, Brazil, Mexico, and the western United States. A glass-scratch test and lack of cleavage support jasper; effervescence in dilute acid suggests calcite.