mineral

Tumbled yellow jasper (likely yellow calcite or serpentine)

Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂, if jasper; appearance may also fit calcite, CaCO₃, or serpentine-group minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Smooth, rounded, opaque yellow-brown specimen with a waxy to dull luster; likely Mohs 3–7 depending on composition. No visible crystals or cleavage; photography alone cannot distinguish the alternatives reliably.

Identified September 3, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled yellow jasper (likely yellow calcite or serpentine)
Scientific name: Microcrystalline quartz, SiO₂, if jasper; appearance may also fit calcite, CaCO₃, or serpentine-group minerals
Category: mineral
Identified: September 3, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$2–$15 for a common tumbled stone; approximately $20–$75 for a larger, attractive lapidary-quality piece.

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

Yellow jasper forms when silica-rich fluids replace or cement iron-bearing sediments or volcanic material; calcite and serpentine have different origins. These materials range from ancient Precambrian to much younger geological deposits.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative and lapidary stone in cabochons, carvings, polished stones, and jewelry; not generally important for construction in this form.

Geological facts

The color commonly comes from iron oxides or hydroxides. A steel scratch test and dilute hydrochloric-acid test can separate likely jasper from calcite, though testing may mark the specimen.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found as water-worn pebbles or in hydrothermal and volcanic terrains worldwide; yellow jasper is widespread in India, Madagascar, Brazil, Australia, and the western United States. If it scratches glass, jasper is more likely; fizzing in acid indicates calcite.