igneous
Dalmatian Stone
Dalmatian Stone (formerly called Dalmatian Jasper)
Hardness: 5.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Creamy white or light gray with black to dark brown speckles, Luster: Dull to vitreous, Crystal structure: Amorphous/Microcrystalline, Specific gravity: 2.6-2.7
- Hardness
- 5
Identified More igneous →
Explore Dalmatian Stone in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-7 (Mohs scale), Color: Creamy white or light gray with black to dark brown speckles, Luster: Dull to vitreous, Crystal structure: Amorphous/Microcrystalline, Specific gravity: 2.6-2.7
Formation & geological history
An igneous silicate rock primarily consisting of feldspar and quartz with black spots of arfvedsonite. It is formed through the cooling of magma, primarily found in Chihuahua, Mexico.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for decorative items, jewelry beads, tumbled stones, and holistic or metaphysical collecting.
Geological facts
Despite its trade name 'Dalmatian Jasper', it is not actually a jasper (sedimentary) but an igneous rock. The signature black spots were long thought to be tourmaline or hematite but have been chemically identified as the mineral arfvedsonite.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive polka-dot pattern resembling a Dalmatian dog's coat. It is almost exclusively sourced from Mexico and is a popular entry-level stone for rock collectors due to its unique appearance.
