Frequently asked questions

• Is Kambaba Jasper actually jasper, or fossilized algae?

  Neither, strictly speaking. Kambaba Jasper is a trade name. X-ray diffraction analysis by the EPI Institute in Germany classifies the material as rhyolite — a silica-rich volcanic rock — rather than microcrystalline quartz, which is the mineral group true jasper belongs to. The longstanding story that the dark orbs are fossilized stromatolites (ancient algae mats) is a marketing description, not a confirmed paleontological identification. For design purposes the trade name Kambaba Jasper is what the bead trade uses, and the material behaves like a hard, polish-taking rhyolite at Mohs 6–7.
• How do I tell Kambaba Jasper apart from Ocean Jasper or rhyolite?

  All three are related rhyolitic materials from Madagascar, which is why they get confused. Kambaba reads dark green to nearly black with distinct round or oval dark orbs floating in a green matrix — the pattern is bold and high-contrast. Ocean Jasper shows multicolor orbicular patterns in cream, pink, yellow, and green, often with concentric rings. Generic rhyolite is typically brown-green with flow banding and speckle rather than discrete orbs. If a strand's pattern matters for your design, look at the product photos closely — orb density and matrix color vary strand to strand.
• Is Kambaba Jasper treated or dyed?

  Kambaba Jasper is typically sold as a natural material — the green-and-black coloration is inherent to the rhyolite and does not require dye or stabilization to display. Treatment information should be disclosed; ask before buying if it isn't specified. Because the stone is not porous in the way that chalky turquoise or magnesite are, there's no standard industry reason to stabilize it. If you ever see a Kambaba strand with unnaturally saturated or uniform color, that's worth a question — but the normal expectation for this material is untreated.
• What kinds of jewelry designs suit Kambaba Jasper best?

  Kambaba's high-contrast orbicular pattern reads as a statement material, so it tends to anchor a piece rather than play a supporting role. Larger rounds (10–12mm) and slices showcase the orb pattern and work well in single-strand necklaces, men's bracelets, and earthy bohemian designs. Smaller 4–8mm rounds blend better into multi-strand or mala-style work where pattern competes with other beads. It pairs naturally with bronze, antiqued brass, leather cord, wood, and other earth-palette stones like petrified wood, smoky quartz, or bronzite. High-polish silver also works to cool down the warm green.
• How durable is Kambaba Jasper for everyday-wear jewelry?

  At Mohs 6–7, Kambaba Jasper is durable enough for bracelets, necklaces, and earrings worn regularly. It's harder than turquoise or lapis but softer than agate and quartz, so it can scuff if dragged against harder stones in a jewelry box. For rings and cuff bracelets — pieces that take impact — choose larger, well-polished beads and expect some surface wear over years. Clean with mild soap, warm water, and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, and harsh solvents, which can dull the polish or work into any natural fractures in the rhyolite matrix.