Kambaba Jasper
Silica-rich sedimentary stromatolite (SiO2 with iron silicates)
A dark green-and-black stromatolite jasper patterned with swirling orbs, formed from fossilized ancient microbial colonies.
- Mohs hardness
- 6-7
- Color
- dark green to nearly black with cream and green orbs
- Type
- sedimentary
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Overview
Kambaba jasper, sometimes sold as crocodile jasper for its reptilian green-and-black mottling, is a dark, orbicular stone patterned with swirling rings and circular "eyes." It is widely described as a fossil stromatolite, a structure built by ancient colonies of cyanobacteria.
The stone combines microcrystalline quartz (chalcedony/jasper) with green iron-bearing silicate minerals, giving it deep forest-green to black tones. The concentric patterns come from the layered microbial mat structures.
Material is mined in Madagascar (and similar stone in South Africa, sometimes called eldarite). It is opaque, takes a high polish, and is popular for beads, towers, and palm stones.
Formation & geology
Kambaba jasper originates as a stromatolite, a sedimentary structure formed over vast spans of time when cyanobacteria trapped and bound sediment into layered mounds in shallow water. These microbial mats are among the oldest evidence of life on Earth.
Over geological time the layered deposit was silicified, with silica and iron-rich minerals replacing and cementing the structure into a hard jasper-like rock. The dark green color reflects iron silicate and chlorite-type minerals.
The distinctive orbs and swirls are cross-sections through the original concentric microbial growth layers. Madagascar is the main commercial source.
How to identify it
Look for an opaque, dark green-to-black stone with rounded, swirling orbs, rings, and eye-like patterns in lighter green and cream. The orbicular pattern is highly distinctive.
It is hard (about 6-7), scratches glass, takes a glassy polish, and shows a pale streak. It does not fizz in acid.
Do not confuse it with Nebula Stone (a related but distinct dark green orbicular rock) or with ocean jasper, which tends toward brighter multicolored orbs. Kambaba's palette is consistently dark green and black with a more muted, fossilized look.
Uses & significance
Kambaba jasper is used for jewelry and decorative objects: beads, cabochons, pendants, spheres, towers, and palm stones. Its toughness suits everyday wear and its deep green color pairs well with silver and copper.
Larger polished pieces are popular as desk and shelf display items because of the eye-catching orb patterns. It is also collected for its status as a fossil-bearing ornamental stone.
In metaphysical traditions it is associated with grounding, calm, and a connection to ancient earth energy; these are spiritual beliefs, not scientific facts. Its genuine appeal is its durability and unique stromatolite patterning.
Frequently asked questions
Is kambaba jasper a fossil?
Yes, it is generally a fossilized stromatolite, a layered structure built by ancient cyanobacteria, later silicified into a hard jasper-like rock.
Why is it called crocodile jasper?
Its dark green-and-black mottled, orbicular pattern resembles crocodile or reptile skin, earning it that nickname.
Where does kambaba jasper come from?
Most kambaba jasper is mined in Madagascar, with similar stromatolite stone found in South Africa.
Is kambaba jasper the same as nebula stone?
No. They are both dark green orbicular rocks and are sometimes confused, but they are geologically distinct materials from different localities.
Kambaba Jasper guides
In-depth guides for identifying, valuing, and understanding Kambaba Jasper.
Kambaba Jasper identified by the community
Real specimens identified with Rock Identifier.
