igneous
Dalmatian Stone
Peralkaline Quartz-Feldspar Porphyry with Arfvedsonite
Hardness: 5-7 (Mohs). Color: Pale gray, cream, or beige with black spots. Luster: Dull to greasy (unless polished). Crystal structure: Monoclinic inclusions in a microcrystalline matrix.
- Hardness
- 5-7 (Mohs)
- Color
- Pale gray, cream, or beige with black spots
- Luster
- Dull to greasy (unless polished)
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-7 (Mohs). Color: Pale gray, cream, or beige with black spots. Luster: Dull to greasy (unless polished). Crystal structure: Monoclinic inclusions in a microcrystalline matrix.
Formation & geological history
Formed when magma cools quickly near the Earth's surface. The black spots are needle-like crystals of the amphibole mineral Arfvedsonite, while the beige matrix is primarily feldspar and quartz. It is primarily found in Chihuahua, Mexico.
Uses & applications
Used almost exclusively in the lapidary arts for beads, cabochons, carvings, and as a popular tumbled stone for collectors and metaphysical markets.
Geological facts
Often incorrectly called 'Dalmatian Jasper', it is actually an igneous rock, not a type of jasper. The distinctive spots resemble the coat of a Dalmatian dog, which gives the rock its common name.
Field identification & locations
Identify by the distinct high-contrast black spots on a light background. Commonly found in Chihuahua, Mexico. Its presence of arfvedsonite (black spots) rather than tourmaline is a key geological indicator.
