igneous
Dalmatian Stone (often misnamed Dalmatian Jasper)
Aplite (with hornblende/arfvedsonite inclusions)
Hardness: 5.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Creamy white to pale gray with black spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline aggregate; Cleavage: None visible.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Creamy white to pale gray with black spots
- Luster
- Vitreous to dull
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-7 (Mohs); Color: Creamy white to pale gray with black spots; Luster: Vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Microcrystalline aggregate; Cleavage: None visible.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the slow cooling of magma within the Earth's crust (igneous intrusion). The black spots are minerals like hornblende or arfvedsonite that grew within the feldspar-quartz matrix.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for ornamental purposes, fashion jewelry (beads, cabochons), tumbled stones for collecting, and carving into decorative objects.
Geological facts
Despite being called Dalmatian Jasper in the trade, it is not a jasper (sedimentary) but actually a type of igneous rock called aplite. It was named for its resemblance to the Dalmatian dog breed.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its unique 'spotted' appearance; the matrix is usually cream-white while spots are distinct, rounded, and black. Mostly found in Chihuahua, Mexico. In the field, it lacks the typical conchoidal fracture of true jasper.
