Picasso Jasper Carving
Microcrystalline Quartz var. Picasso Marble (Commercial name for a type of metamorphic limestone or marble) · Decorative Stone / Carved Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal (for the calcite matrix)
Mineral Group
Carbonates
Chemical Formula
CaCO3 (with various mineral inclusions such as iron oxides and carbon)
Formation Process
Metamorphic and sedimentary processes where limestone or marble is infiltrated by mineral-rich solutions, creating distinctive dark dendritic or abstract patterns.
About This Crystal
A small decorative carving in the shape of an animal (rodent or bear), featuring a cream to off-white base color with characteristic dark grey and black abstract line inclusions resembling abstract art.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Cream, beige, with black or dark grey markings. Streak: White. Cleavage: Perfect in three directions (for calcite). Fracture: Conchoidal to uneven. Specific Gravity: 2.71. Tenacity: Brittle.
Optical Properties
Biaxial negative or uniaxial negative depending on the exact mineral constituents; typically opaque with a vitreous to earthy luster.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Utah, USA, and various global localities where limestone undergoes metamorphism
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 3 (if primarily calcite) to 6.5-7 (if quartz-based jasper). Given typical Picasso marble/jasper, hardness often ranges around 3 to 4 for carbonate varieties, making it relatively soft and requiring gentle care.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals, acids, and ultrasonic cleaners as carbonate-based stones are sensitive to acidic substances.
Rarity & Value
Common; widely available as tumbled stones and carved trinkets. Inexpensive, generally ranging from low-cost mass-market pricing.
Special Characteristics
Natural abstract landscape-like or painterly patterns created by mineral dendrites and inclusions, giving it a unique artistic appearance.
Lore & History
Often used in modern crystal healing to promote strength, self-discipline, and transformational growth, though these are traditional beliefs and not scientifically validated.