Comparison · Quartz Family
Dalmatian Jasper vs Jasper
Dalmatian Jasper and Jasper are easy to confuse because both are quartz family. Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Dalmatian Jasper and Jasper
- Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Luster is different: Dalmatian Jasper is waxy while Jasper is vitreous.
- They overlap in brown, but Dalmatian Jasper also comes in white and black and Jasper also comes in red, yellow, green, and multicolored.
Dalmatian Jasper vs Jasper properties
| Property | Dalmatian Jasper | Jasper |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Quartz Family | Quartz Family |
| Mohs hardness | 7 | 7 |
| Luster | waxy | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | opaque | opaque |
| Specific gravity | 2.6 | 2.6 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal | hexagonal |
| Common colors | Cream, White, Black, Tan | Red, Yellow, Brown, Green, Multi-colored |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $3–$80+ | $5–$150+ |
Which is more valuable?
Jasper is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $20 against $15 for Dalmatian Jasper, and premium Jasper can reach $150 or more.
About Dalmatian Jasper
Dalmatian Jasper, also called Dalmatian stone, is a cream to tan spotted lapidary material commonly sold under the jasper trade name.
About Jasper
Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony found in a wide array of colors and patterns. Each variety has unique characteristics based on its formation.
Dalmatian Jasper vs Jasper FAQ
Is Dalmatian Jasper the same as Jasper?
No. Both are quartz family, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Dalmatian Jasper from Jasper?
Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Luster is different: Dalmatian Jasper is waxy while Jasper is vitreous. They overlap in brown, but Dalmatian Jasper also comes in white and black and Jasper also comes in red, yellow, green, and multicolored.
Which is harder, Dalmatian Jasper or Jasper?
They are about equally hard, both near Mohs 7.
Which is more valuable, Dalmatian Jasper or Jasper?
Jasper is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $20 against $15 for Dalmatian Jasper, and premium Jasper can reach $150 or more.
