Igneous/Sedimentary (debated)
Kambaba Jasper
Rhyolite (Volcanic rock) or Stromatolite (debated)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7, Color: Dark green to black with lighter green or yellowish circular/oval spots, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Crystal structure: Microcrystalline quartz, Cleavage: None
- Hardness
- 6
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7, Color: Dark green to black with lighter green or yellowish circular/oval spots, Luster: Vitreous to dull, Crystal structure: Microcrystalline quartz, Cleavage: None
Formation & geological history
Formed in Madagascar. Origin is debated; traditionally thought to be a fossilized stromatolite (sedimentary), but recent studies suggest it's a rhyolitic volcanic rock (igneous) with orbicular features formed by cooling magma.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in lapidary arts, jewelry, carvings, and as a decorative stone.
Geological facts
Often sold as a fossil (stromatolite) containing ancient cyanobacteria, but petrographic analysis often points to a volcanic origin (rhyolite).
Field identification & locations
Identifiable by its distinct dark green/black background with lighter green orbicular patterns. Found mainly in Madagascar.
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Other igneous/sedimentary (debated) specimens
Native American Hammerstone / Pitted Stone
Modified lithic artifact (often quartzite, basalt, or granite)
artifact / sedimentary or igneous rock
Polished kambaba jasper
Orbicular stromatolitic jasper; microcrystalline quartz (SiO₂) with chlorite/amphibole-rich inclusions
sedimentary
Amazonite
Microcline (KAlSi3O8) with trace lead
mineral
Sunstone
Oligoclase or Andesine (Feldspar Group), (Ca,Na)((Al,Si)4O8)
mineral
Sunstone (Feldspar)
Plagioclase Feldspar ((Ca, Na)(Al, Si)4O8)
mineral
Sunstone
Plagioclase Feldspar (Na,Ca)(Al,Si)4O8
Mineral