Large Zebra Stone Cabochon | Australia

Weight: 56.5g (282.5ct)

Approx. dimensions: 80mm x 61mm

Zebra stone, or zebra rock, is a distinctive reddish-brown and white-banded sedimentary rock from the Kimberley region in Western Australia. Composed essentially of tiny particles of quartz and ‘sericite’ (fine-grained white mica), zebra stone also contains minerals such as hematite, limonite, kaolinite, dickite, and alunite. Zebra stone is estimated to have formed over 600 million years ago, during the Precambrian period.

The name zebra stone was first used to describe the striped color pattern within the rock. Although it may initially appear to have a uniform layering of light and dark bands, it often exhibits unique and varied markings such as spots and other rhythmic patterns. One theory suggests that the distinctive bands were created by the rhythmic precipitation of iron oxide-rich bands during rock alteration caused by fluids seeping through. Another theory proposes that the patterns are a result of cyanobacterial mats filling in ripple marks in calm, shallow marine environments, making it a trace fossil known as a microbialite.

Zebra stone is a beneficial stone that offers grounding and protection. Its properties include releasing negative energy and connecting with the Earth's rejuvenating energy. Additionally, Zebra stone balances the body's energy field and yin/yang energy. It also enhances your inner strength and supports self-healing and self-discovery. Zebra stone calms an overactive mind to help you remain present in the moment.