igneous
Dalmatian Jasper (Dalmatian Stone)
Peralkaline rhyolite
Hardness: 5.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Pale grey or cream with black/brown spots; Luster: Dull to sub-vitreous; Structure: Microcrystalline; Specific Gravity: 2.5-2.7
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Pale grey or cream with black/brown spots
- Luster
- Dull to sub-vitreous
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Pale grey or cream with black/brown spots; Luster: Dull to sub-vitreous; Structure: Microcrystalline; Specific Gravity: 2.5-2.7
Formation & geological history
Formed through the cooling of silica-rich peralkaline magma. Despite its common name, it is an igneous rock (rhyolite) rather than a true sedimentary jasper. The black spots are typically composed of arfvedsonite or other amphiboles.
Uses & applications
Primarily used in jewelry making for beads, cabochons, and tumble stones. Also popular in gemstone collecting and metaphysical practices.
Geological facts
It is named for its resemblance to the Dalmatian dog breed. The 'spots' were long thought to be tourmaline, but scientific analysis identified them as arfvedsonite.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive black-on-white/cream spotted pattern and smooth, fine-grained texture. It is almost exclusively sourced from Chihuahua, Mexico.
