igneous
Dalmatian Stone
Dalmatian Jasper / Aplite
Hardness 5.5-7 on Mohs scale; pale off-white to yellowish groundmass with distinctive dark brown to black spots; vitreous to dull luster; massive crystal texture; specific gravity around 2.6.
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness 5.5-7 on Mohs scale; pale off-white to yellowish groundmass with distinctive dark brown to black spots; vitreous to dull luster; massive crystal texture; specific gravity around 2.6.
Formation & geological history
Forms through intrusive igneous processes as a fine-grained felsic rock (aplite), consisting mainly of quartz, feldspar, and inclusions of black tourmaline or arfvedsonite. Primarly found in Chihuahua, Mexico.
Uses & applications
Popular as an ornamental stone, used for lapidary work, beads, tumbled stones, carvings, and costume jewelry.
Geological facts
Although traditionally marketed as Dalmatian Jasper, it is not a true chalcedony jasper but rather an igneous rock (aplite). The dark spots were long misidentified as tourmaline, though studies show many spots consist of the amphibole mineral arfvedsonite.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive speckled appearance resembling a Dalmatian dog coat. Commonly sourced from Mexico and widely available in mineral shops and lapidary markets.
