sedimentary

Kambaba Jasper (Crocodile Jasper)

Stromatolitic Rhyolite/Jasper (SiO2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Dark green with black orbicular swirls/spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline (trigonal); Specific gravity: 2.6-2.9

Hardness: 6
Color: Dark green with black orbicular swirls/spots
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified May 18, 2026More sedimentary →

Explore Kambaba Jasper (Crocodile Jasper) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Dark green with black orbicular swirls/spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline (trigonal); Specific gravity: 2.6-2.9

Formation & geological history

Formed from fossilized algae (stromatolites) and volcanic ash deposits over 3 billion years ago. It is technically an orbicular sedimentary rock composed of microcrystalline quartz and silicate minerals.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for decorative purposes, lapidary arts like cabochons, ornamental carvings, and widely used in the metaphysical/crystal healing community.

Geological facts

Despite being called jasper, it is actually a fossilized algal formation called a stromatolite, representing some of the oldest records of life on Earth.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its distinctive 'crocodile-skin' pattern of dark green circles on a lighter green background. Predominantly found in the west-central Bongolava region of Madagascar.