igneous

Dalmatian Stone

Peralkaline Feldsphathic Igneous Rock

Hardness: 5.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Creamy grey-beige with black spots; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline aggregate; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.5-2.7

Hardness: 5
Color: Creamy grey-beige with black spots
Luster: Dull to vitreous

Identified March 15, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Creamy grey-beige with black spots; Luster: Dull to vitreous; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline aggregate; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.5-2.7

Formation & geological history

Formed from the solidification of silica-rich magma containing alkaline minerals. The black spots are specifically inclusions of Arfvedsonite (an amphibole mineral) within a feldspar/quartz matrix. Most specimens are found in Chihuahua, Mexico.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for ornamental purposes, including lapidary work, cabochons, beads, and decorative carvings. It is also a popular stone in the metaphysical and gemstone collecting community.

Geological facts

Commonly mislabeled as 'Dalmatian Jasper', it is not actually a jasper (sedimentary) but an igneous rock. The signature black spots were long thought to be tourmaline, but chemical analysis confirmed they are actually the rare amphibole mineral Arfvedsonite.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unique 'dog-coat' pattern and lack of grain. Collectors look for sharp contrast between the light background and dark spots. It is almost exclusively sourced from Mexico and is easily identified by its lack of transparency and distinctive spotting.

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Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

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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.

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Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

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Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

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Blue Apatite

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

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Magnetite

Magnetite (Fe3O4)

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