What Is Dalmatian Jasper?

Dalmatian jasper, also called dalmatian stone, is a cream or beige stone covered in black and brown spots, like the coat of a dalmatian dog. Despite the name it is not a true jasper, and it is popular in tumbled stones and beads. In crystal lore it is a playful, grounding stone linked with curiosity and enthusiasm, and a favourite for people with pets.

The Physical Properties of Dalmatian Jasper

Dalmatian jasper (also called dalmatian stone) is naturally beige-brown, cream, or pale gray although it's also dyed with bright colours like green, purple, and red. It is covered in black or brown specks of arfvedsonite and other mineral inclusions reminiscent of the coat of the dalmatian dog breed. Polished dalmatian jasper also looks like a quail egg up close.

While it's popularly called dalmatian jasper, the stone is not a jasper. This stone is much softer than jasper (hardness rating of 6.5) and doesn't form a conchoidal fracture. Dalmatian jasper is an ideal material for tumbled stones. It's easy to polish and it polishes brightly when fashioned into beads, cabochons, and jewellery items.

When cleaning dalmatian jasper beads and jewellery, use warm soapy water and a fibre cloth. Store it in a dry and clean container. Avoid storing it together with harder stones to prevent scratching.

The History of Dalmatian Jasper

Dalmatian jasper is commonly found in Chihuahua, Mexico. A study by the Gemological Institute of America found that this stone is a peralkaline rock (an igneous rock lacking in aluminum) with uncertain origin. Dalmatian jasper consists of feldspars, quartz, alkali amphiboles, and trace amounts of epidote and hematite. Gem experts recommend calling the stone dalmatian stone rather than dalmatian jasper since the material doesn't meet the gem qualities of jasper.

The Lore of Dalmatian Jasper

There is no legendary information about this stone.

The Metaphysical Properties of Dalmatian Jasper

Has life become stale? In crystal lore, dalmatian jasper is a joyful stone. People wear or carry it as a reminder to lighten up and approach the day with curiosity, humour and a renewed zest for life.

In chakra tradition, dalmatian jasper is linked to the sacral and root chakras. The sacral chakra stands for pleasure, enjoyment and connection with others.

The root chakra stands for grounding, movement and independence, and dalmatian jasper is linked with strength of character and leadership in that tradition.

Dalmatian jasper is also a favourite stone for planners. In crystal lore it is linked with thorough planning and with carrying out projects with a positive attitude, which is why some people keep it on the desk when starting a business.

It is also known as an animal stone, and people who work with animals, such as dog trainers, breeders and shelter staff, often keep a piece nearby as a symbol of patience and a calm approach. Browse polished jasper for similar patterned stones.

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