igneous
Dalmatian Jasper
Dalmatian Stone (Felsite with Arfvedsonite/Tourmaline)
Hardness: 5.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Creamy white, pale grey, or yellowish base with black or dark brown spots. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline matrix containing amphibole minerals. Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: ~2.6-2.7.
- Hardness
- 5
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
Identified More igneous →
Explore Dalmatian Jasper in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Color: Creamy white, pale grey, or yellowish base with black or dark brown spots. Luster: Vitreous to dull. Crystal Structure: Microcrystalline matrix containing amphibole minerals. Cleavage: None. Specific Gravity: ~2.6-2.7.
Formation & geological history
Formed through igneous activity, specifically as a fine-grained silica-rich felsic rock (felsite) that cooled, trapping needle-like inclusions of dark amphibole minerals (often arfvedsonite) which created its characteristic spots.
Uses & applications
Widely used in lapidary work, jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, tumbled decorative stones, and metaphysical practices.
Geological facts
Despite its popular trade name 'Dalmatian Jasper', it is geologically not a true jasper (chalcedony), but rather an igneous rock composed mainly of quartz, feldspars, and dark arfvedsonite minerals.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive white-to-cream background with rounded dark spots resembling a Dalmatian dog's coat. Primarily mined and exported from Chihuahua, Mexico.
