Quartz Family · common
Dalmatian Jasper
Dalmatian Jasper, also called Dalmatian stone, is a cream to tan spotted lapidary material commonly sold under the jasper trade name.
Also known as: Dalmatian stone, spotted jasper, spotted stone.
Dalmatian Jasper properties at a glance
| Type | Quartz Family |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | SiO2 |
| Mohs hardness | 7 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal |
| Luster | waxy |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 2.6 |
| Transparency | opaque |
| Common colors | Cream, White, Black, Tan |
| Rarity | common |
Geology & background
Forms as a spotted silica-rich rock or lapidary material where dark mineral inclusions contrast with a light matrix.
Dalmatian Jasper is a lapidary trade name popular in bead, tumbler, and decorative stone markets.
How to identify Dalmatian Jasper
- Look for the distinctive color, pattern, and translucency associated with Dalmatian Jasper.
- Photograph a fresh or polished surface in natural light and avoid glare.
- Use hardness, luster, fracture, and locality together; many chalcedony trade varieties overlap visually.
Full Dalmatian Jasper identification guide: checklist, home tests and look-alikes →
Dalmatian Jasper vs similar stones
Not sure it isn't something else? Side-by-side comparisons with the stones most often confused with Dalmatian Jasper.
Where Dalmatian Jasper is found
Dalmatian Jasper is a trade or collector label that may vary by locality; verify provenance when a source locality is important.
How much is Dalmatian Jasper worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $3 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $15 |
| Premium specimen | $80+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, pattern, locality, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Tumbled stones
- Beads
- Carvings
- Decorative objects
Interesting facts
- The spotted pattern is the most important visual clue.
- It is widely sold as tumbled stones and beads.
- The trade name may be used even when the material is not a strict geological jasper.
Care & safety
Treat Dalmatian Jasper as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
Dalmatian Jasper FAQ
What is Dalmatian Jasper?
Dalmatian Jasper, also called Dalmatian stone, is a cream to tan spotted lapidary material commonly sold under the jasper trade name.
How much is Dalmatian Jasper worth?
Entry-level Dalmatian Jasper specimens sell for around $3, a typical collector specimen for about $15, and premium pieces for $80 or more. Value depends on size, condition, color, pattern, locality, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
How hard is Dalmatian Jasper?
Dalmatian Jasper has a Mohs hardness of 7. It scratches glass and a steel knife and cannot be scratched by a steel file.
Where is Dalmatian Jasper found?
Notable sources of Dalmatian Jasper include Brazil, India, Madagascar, USA, and Australia. Forms as a spotted silica-rich rock or lapidary material where dark mineral inclusions contrast with a light matrix..
What is Dalmatian Jasper used for?
Dalmatian Jasper is used for tumbled stones, beads, carvings, and decorative objects.
