igneous

Dalmatian Stone (often called Dalmatian Jasper)

Peralkaline Quartz-Feldspar Rock with Arfvedsonite (formerly believed to be Jasper)

Hardness: 5-7 (Mohs scale); Color: Pale gray, cream, or beige with small black or dark brown spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline aggregate; Cleavage: None; Specific gravity: 2.58–2.91.

Hardness: 5-7 (Mohs scale)
Luster: Vitreous to dull

Identified March 27, 2026More igneous →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through volcanic processes where magma cools and solidifies. The white/cream parts are primarily feldspar and quartz, while the black spots are crystals of arfvedsonite or other amphiboles. Most specimens originate from Chihuahua, Mexico.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used for lapidary work, including beads, cabochons, tumbled stones, and decorative carvings. It is popular in the metaphysical community as a 'grounding' stone.

Geological facts

Despite being called 'Dalmatian Jasper' in the gemstone trade, it is not actually a jasper (sedimentary) but an igneous rock. The black spots were long thought to be tourmaline, but recent chemical analysis identifies them as the rare amphibole mineral arfvedsonite.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinctive 'spotted dog' appearance, lack of transparency, and hard, smooth texture when polished. Found almost exclusively in Mexico. Collectors should look for balanced spotting and high contrast.

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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

Blue Apatite

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

mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

mineral

Magnetite

Magnetite (Fe3O4)

mineral