igneous

Dalmatian Stone

Dalmatian Jasper (Peralkaline Quartz-Feldspar Rock)

Hardness: 6.5 - 7 (Mohs); Color: Pale gray, tan, or beige with black/brown spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58 - 2.91

Hardness: 6
Color: Pale gray, tan, or beige with black/brown spots
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified March 26, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5 - 7 (Mohs); Color: Pale gray, tan, or beige with black/brown spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 2.58 - 2.91

Formation & geological history

Formed through the cooling of silica-rich magma that has been enriched with alkali metals. The black spots are needle-like inclusions of Arfvedsonite (amphibole). Primarily found in Chihuahua, Mexico.

Uses & applications

Mostly used for lapidary work, jewelry (beads, cabochons), tumbled stones for collectors, and in the metaphysical community as a grounding stone.

Geological facts

Despite being called 'Dalmatian Jasper' in the trade, it is technically an igneous rock, not a true jasper (sedimentary). The black spots were long thought to be Tourmaline, but scientific analysis has proven them to be the mineral Arfvedsonite.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unique 'dog coat' pattern of black spots on a light tan/creamy base. It is common at gem shows and specialty shops. It won't react with acid and cannot be scratched by a steel knife.

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Fluorapatite (Ca5(PO4)3F)

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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.

Igneous

Magnetite

Iron(II,III) oxide (Fe3O4)

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Blue Apatite

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

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Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

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Magnetite

Magnetite (Fe3O4)

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