mineral

Tumbled yellow-orange jasper

Microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony), SiO₂, colored by iron oxides

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness about 6.5–7 Mohs; opaque mustard-yellow to orange-brown, waxy to subvitreous luster, cryptocrystalline quartz with no visible cleavage and conchoidal fracture. The smooth rounded surface indicates tumbling or water wear.

Identified August 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms when silica-rich fluids replace or fill cavities in volcanic or sedimentary rocks, with iron oxides producing the color; specimens may range from Paleozoic to recent depending on locality. Common sources include Oregon, Idaho, California, Brazil, Madagascar, and Australia.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, polished stones, lapidary art, and decorative objects; generally not used as a major construction stone.

Geological facts

Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony and is technically a rock composed predominantly of microcrystalline quartz plus impurities. Yellow coloration commonly reflects goethite or limonite.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its opacity, warm iron-stained color, fine texture, glass-scratching hardness, and lack of cleavage; unlike calcite, it will not fizz in dilute acid. The pictured piece appears common and commercially tumbled.