igneous
Dalmatian Jasper
Dalmatian Stone (a porphyritic peralkaline igneous rock)
Hardness: 5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Cream, light gray or tan with black/brown spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline; Specific gravity: 2.6-2.7
- Hardness
- 5-7 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Cream, light gray or tan with black/brown spots
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Cream, light gray or tan with black/brown spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline; Specific gravity: 2.6-2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed through volcanic activity where magma cooled and solidified. The black spots are inclusions of arfvedsonite or tourmaline within a feldspar and quartz matrix. Primarily sourced from Chihuahua, Mexico.
Uses & applications
Mainly used in jewelry (beads, cabochons), carvings, decorative ornaments, and within the gemstone and metaphysical community as a grounding stone.
Geological facts
Despite being called jasper, it is technically an igneous rock, not a variety of chalcedony. It is named after the Dalmatian dog breed because of its distinct black spots on a white-to-cream background.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its unique spotted appearance resembling a dog. It is an opaque stone that takes a high polish. Most commercial specimens are found in Mexico. In the field, look for distinct black orbicular inclusions in a light-colored matrix.
