Well...spalting is rotting.
But, I'd just call that rot. Spalting consists of thin lines. These lines have been described as "battle lines" between two different decay fungi working from different directions.
When you catch the decay early enough, saw the lumber and dry it, you stop the process (kill the fungi) and "freeze" their progress in place. That is spalted wood.
Having said that: beauty is in the eye of the beholder. If you like the look of what you see and the wood is solid, it doesn't matter what anybody else calls it. Use it to make something that looks great and enjoy.
