igneous

Dalmatian Jasper

Dalmatian Stone (comprised of Feldspar, Quartz, and Arfvedsonite)

Hardness: 5.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Creamy white to grayish-beige with distinct black spots; Luster: Dull to vitreous (pearly when polished); Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Amorphous; Specific Gravity: 2.58-2.91

Hardness: 5
Color: Creamy white to grayish-beige with distinct black spots
Luster: Dull to vitreous (pearly when polished)

Identified May 27, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through the solidification of magma, typically resulting in a microcrystalline quartz base with inclusions of black amphibole minerals (Arfvedsonite). It is primarily an intrusive igneous rock despite its common 'Jasper' trade name.

Uses & applications

Mainly used in jewelry as cabochons, beads, and tumbled stones. Also used for ornamental carvings, spheres, and metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Despite its trade name, Dalmatian Stone is not a true Jasper (which is sedimentary) but is actually an igneous rock. The black spots were long thought to be Tourmaline but have been identified as the mineral Arfvedsonite.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unique 'dog-coat' pattern of black spots on a pale background. It is almost exclusively mined in Chihuahua, Mexico. Collectors look for high contrast between the cream background and the dark spots.

Other igneous specimens

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Blue Apatite

Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

mineral

Dark Igneous Rock (Likely Basalt or Diabase)

Basalt (extrusive igneous rock) or Diabase (intrusive igneous rock - also known as Dolerite), largely composed of plagioclase feldspar, pyroxene (augite), and sometimes olivine and amphibole. Exact mineralogy would require thin section analysis.

Igneous

Dalmatian Jasper

Aplite with Arfvedsonite inclusions

igneous

Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

mineral

Blue Apatite

Apatite (Group), Ca5(PO4)3(F,Cl,OH)

mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

mineral