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Large, 5.45" Polished Kambaba Jasper Sphere (8.7 lbs) - Madagascar
This is a beautiful, hand polished sphere made from kambaba jasper found in Madagascar. It is 5.45" wide and has dark circular mineral formations throughout the jasper. This specimen comes with a round wooden stand and displays nicely on a hard surface.
About Kambaba Jasper
Kambaba jasper—also known in the trade as “crocodile jasper”—is a striking, green-and-black ornamental stone originating from the west-central Bongolava region of Madagascar. Despite the name, it isn’t a true jasper at all, but a rhyolitic volcanic rock that formed from ancient silica-rich lava flows. Its signature appearance comes from swirling green groundmass punctuated by dark, orbicular structures composed of fine amphibole needle aggregates. These orbs can resemble reptilian or amphibian eyes, which is how the nickname “crocodile jasper” arose.
A long-standing misconception suggests that Kambaba jasper is a stromatolite (a fossilized bacterial mat), but scientific study has shown this is incorrect—its textures are igneous rather than biological in origin. Even so, its bold patterning, deep green coloration, and polishable surface have made it a popular decorative material for carvings, spheres, palm stones, and jewelry. When finished, it displays a dramatic, almost ancient look that highlights the unique geological processes that shaped Madagascar’s volcanic landscapes.
Kambaba jasper—also known in the trade as “crocodile jasper”—is a striking, green-and-black ornamental stone originating from the west-central Bongolava region of Madagascar. Despite the name, it isn’t a true jasper at all, but a rhyolitic volcanic rock that formed from ancient silica-rich lava flows. Its signature appearance comes from swirling green groundmass punctuated by dark, orbicular structures composed of fine amphibole needle aggregates. These orbs can resemble reptilian or amphibian eyes, which is how the nickname “crocodile jasper” arose.
A long-standing misconception suggests that Kambaba jasper is a stromatolite (a fossilized bacterial mat), but scientific study has shown this is incorrect—its textures are igneous rather than biological in origin. Even so, its bold patterning, deep green coloration, and polishable surface have made it a popular decorative material for carvings, spheres, palm stones, and jewelry. When finished, it displays a dramatic, almost ancient look that highlights the unique geological processes that shaped Madagascar’s volcanic landscapes.
SPECIES
Quartz, Pyroxene & Alkali Feldspar Conglomerate
LOCATION
Tsiroanomandidy, West-Central Bongolava, Madagascar
SIZE
5.45" Wide
CATEGORY
SUB CATEGORY
ITEM
#122375
