Bloodstone
A variety of Chalcedony
What is Bloodstone?
The small red spots of Jasper embedded in bloodstone resembles tiny drops of blood, hence the name. Bloodstone is actually a variety of Chalcedony. As a birthstone, it is associated with the month of March. It is polished into cabochons and used in rings and amulets, or carved into ornamental objects.
Etymology & Origins
The mineral aggregate heliotrope (from Greek ἥλιος, hḗlios “Sun”, τρέπειν, trépein “to turn”), also known as bloodstone, is a cryptocrystalline mixture of quartz that occurs mostly as jasper (opaque) or sometimes as chalcedony (translucent). The "classic" bloodstone is opaque green jasper with red inclusions of hematite. The red inclusions may resemble spots of blood, hence the name bloodstone. The name heliotrope derives from various ancient notions about the manner in which the mineral reflects light.
Uses & Applications
Bloodstone is a quartz mineral with a rich history dating back to the first century, where it is mentioned in the writings of Pliny the elder. This mineral has been used as a gemstone for most of recorded history, formed into jewelry, seals, and small statues.
Healing Properties
Bloodstone is a powerful crystal that believers say can help build confidence, courage, and determination. Its strong vibrations encourage spiritual tenacity. Place it under a pillow at night to encourage more lucid dreams when sleeping and hopefully wake up feeling more energetic the following morning. Keep it around when making decisions and when you need to bring balance and harmony of the mind, body, and spirit.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.530-1.543
- Birefringence
- 0.003-0.009
- Pleochroism
- None
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive
- Dispersion
- 0.013
Discover Values
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Bloodstone before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Bloodstone Localities Map
See where Bloodstone is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
The Meaning
Many ancient cultures prized bloodstone as a magical stone. The Babylonians and Egyptians believed that bloodstone can give them strength or make them invisible. In ancient Greece, it was believed that this stone could change the weather. According to Christian traditions, the red spots in the bloodstone are a symbol of Christ's blood.
Associated Chakras
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Bloodstone in powdered form can be toxic due to its Crystalline Silica content.
- ⚠️Quartz, silica, crystalline silica and flint are non-toxic materials, but very fine dust containing quartz, known as respirable crystalline silicon (RCS), can cause serious and fatal lung disease. Lapidaries should exercise caution when cutting silica.
- ⚠️Bloodstone is typically non-toxic unless it's in powder form. Long-term exposure to finely ground powder may lead to silicosis. Therefore, when cutting or polishing bloodstone, be sure to wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling its dust.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Green, red
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 6.5 - 7
- Density
- 2.55 - 2.7 g/cm³
- Streak
- Colorless
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Crystal System
- Trigonal
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- SiO2
- Elements
- O, Si
Identify Bloodstone Instantly
- Snap a photo, get instant results
- 6,700+ rocks, minerals & crystals
- Discover collecting spots near you
Bloodstone FAQs
How do I identify Bloodstone?
Bloodstone can be identified by its hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale, Green color, Vitreous luster, Trigonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Bloodstone?
Bloodstone typically appears in Green, red. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Bloodstone?
Bloodstone has a hardness of 6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.