igneous

Dalmatian Jasper (Dalmatian Stone)

Perthitic feldspar with Arfvedsonite inclusions

Hardness: 5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Creamy white or gray background with black spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: None visible in aggregate form.

Hardness: 5-7 (Mohs scale)
Color: Creamy white or gray background with black spots
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified April 6, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Creamy white or gray background with black spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: None visible in aggregate form.

Formation & geological history

Formed from igneous activity where magma cools and solidifies; the 'spots' are amphibole minerals like arfvedsonite or tourmaline cooling within a feldspar/quartz matrix. Primarily dated to the Mesozoic or Cenozoic eras depending on specific locality.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for lapidary work including beads, cabochons, tumbled stones, and decorative carvings. It is also a popular stone in the metaphysical and gemstone collecting communities.

Geological facts

Despite being called 'Jasper', it is technically an igneous rock (perthite) and not a true microcrystalline quartz jasper. It is named after the Dalmatian dog breed because of its distinctive spotted appearance.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its cream-colored background and distinct, well-defined black circular spots. Found almost exclusively in Chihuahua, Mexico. Look for a smooth, porcelain-like texture when polished.

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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.

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Magnetite (Fe3O4)

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