Oval Eldarite cabochon—the gemological name for what is called Kambaba Jasper—measuring 23×16×7 mm, hand-cut in our lapidary workshop from rough material from Madagascar. Stromatolitic pattern with dark green areas and black circles.
Piece Details
| Mineral |
Eldarite / Kambaba Jasper (fossilized stromatolitic rock) |
| Dimensions |
23×16×7 mm (±0.5 mm due to hand cutting) |
| Shape and Back |
Freeform oval, flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
6–7 Mohs — we recommend bezel setting |
| Origin |
Madagascar |
| Treatment |
No treatment |
| Piece Type |
Unique piece |
This Specific Piece
With a height of 7 mm, this piece is ideal for macrame, wire wrap, or any setting technique where the stone is exposed on the sides. The pattern combines a dark green, moss-toned base with several circular black spots—the cross-sections of stromatolites—of varying diameters, giving it an almost graphic appearance, like ink on botanical paper.
The lapidary decision was to preserve the freeform oval shape to include as many complete circular patterns as possible, without truncating any stromatolites at the perimeter.
What is Eldarite (Kambaba Jasper)?
The popular name "Kambaba Jasper" is an inaccurate commercial designation: gemologically, the rock is called Eldarite and is not a jasper but a sedimentary rock composed of fossilized stromatolites—structures formed 2.1–3 billion years ago by colonies of cyanobacteria. The green areas are the siliceous material that filled the stromatolites; the black circles are the cross-sections of the bacterial colonies preserved in the rock. It is, literally, one of the oldest biological materials cut in lapidary.
What Settings It Works For
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Macrame or Thread Wrapping — the high convexity (7 mm) allows the stone to be wrapped with waxed cotton or linen thread from the base without the need for a metal setting.
-
Wire Wrap in Copper or Bronze — the dark green and black colors contrast exceptionally with copper; the convexity provides sufficient grip for the wire.
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Bezel in 925 Silver — a high bezel (≥6 mm) can fully enclose the piece; polished silver contrasts elegantly with the green.
Eldarite in Lapidary Tradition
Originating from Madagascar and primarily entering the market since the 2000s, eldarite does not have the jewelry usage history of other stones. The extreme age of the material—up to 3 billion years—makes it an object with unique narrative value: each piece contains records of the earliest forms of photosynthetic life on Earth.
In crystal tradition, it is associated with connection to nature's cycles and calm strength.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
How to Recognize Genuine Eldarite
Genuine eldarite shows sharp-edged black circles under magnification, integrated into the green mass without a painted appearance. Its hardness (6–7 Mohs) means it cannot be scratched by a coin. Imitations in dyed resin have blurred circle edges, a surface with micro-bubbles, and noticeably less weight. The dark green background of eldarite has slight tonal variations—it is not a uniform green.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called "Kambaba Jasper" if it's not a jasper?
It's a commercial designation established in the market before mineralogy formalized the term Eldarite. Both names are valid in commerce, but the correct gemological name is Eldarite. Kambaba refers to one of the extraction areas in Madagascar.
Is it dyed or treated?
No. The dark green and black colors are completely natural and are due to the mineralogical composition of the fossilized stromatolites. No detectable treatment. Statement based on lapidary observation.
How do you care for eldarite?
Clean with a soft cloth and warm water. Avoid abrasive products. With 6–7 Mohs, it is suitable for use in jewelry. See our care guide.
See also: more pieces from our workshop · cabochon collection.
