igneous

Dalmatian Stone

Dalmatian Stone (a peralkaline igneous rock consisting of Feldspar, Quartz, and Arfvedsonite)

Hardness: 5.5 - 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Creamy white or pale gray with distinct black or brown spots; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline; Specific Gravity: Approx 2.6 - 3.0

Hardness: 5
Color: Creamy white or pale gray with distinct black or brown spots
Luster: Dull to vitreous

Identified March 14, 2026More igneous →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5 - 7 on Mohs scale; Color: Creamy white or pale gray with distinct black or brown spots; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline; Specific Gravity: Approx 2.6 - 3.0

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of molten rock (magma) within the Earth's crust, primarily found in Chihuahua, Mexico. The distinct spots are composed of the mineral Arfvedsonite within a matrix of alkali feldspars.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for lapidary items, tumbled stones, beads, jewelry, and metaphysical sculptures (cabochons and spheres). Known for its durability and ease of polishing.

Geological facts

Commonly mislabeled as 'Dalmatian Jasper', it is actually a rock rather than a jasper (which is a form of chalcedony). The black spots were long thought to be tourmaline, but recent chemical analysis identifies them as arfvedsonite.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its 'dogs-ear' off-white background and sharp, scattered black inclusions. It is most commonly found in Mexico. Collectors should look for a smooth finish and high contrast between the base color and the spots.

Other igneous specimens

See all

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

Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

mineral

Blue Apatite

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

mineral

Magnetite

Magnetite (Fe3O4)

mineral