PRODUCT INFORMATION

General Description

The Stromatolite stone was first discovered in Madagascar about two decades ago, when one of our regional partners, Denis Mboho, stumbled upon it while exploring the bush. He brought it back to us, showcasing its solid structure, free from cracks, displaying a captivating primordial green hue adorned with striking black ring patterns. Upon examination, it was recognized and confirmed as Stromatolite fossil stone. Comparable to the 2.3 billion-year-old Stromatolites found in South Africa, the Malagasy specimens are approximately 60 to 80 million years old, originating from the era when the African continent underwent its separation. Our South African Stromatolites are among the oldest known in the world. Stromatolites represent ancient bacterial formations, one of the earliest life forms on Earth. We've been crafting polished products from this stone since its discovery. However, in Madagascar, this material is often marketed as Kambamba/Kombamba Jasper. Initially sourced from Kombambi Bay, the Malagasy lapidary community was unaware it was Stromatolite (Nick, our fossil enthusiast, identified it). Both names, Stromatolite and Kambamba Jasper, are accurate descriptors for this material. There have been some online debates comparing it to Ocean Jasper, but they are distinctly different. Ocean Jasper has volcanic origins and is a chalcedony filled coral reef formation, while Stromatolite showcases typical cyanobacteria dome structures within a green matrix of pyroxene/aegirine/arfvedsonite. Its lithified nature gives it substantial weight and an exceptional polish, resulting in a high-shine finish. Price is grade dependant. Items are as shown.

Product Data

Locality = Madagascar
Grade = Good to Very Good Grade
Size = 200 x 73 x 63 mm | 7.9 x 2.9 x 2.5 inch
Net Weight = 1.4 Kg | 3.1 Lbs
Product Type = Décor Item