Bloodstone (Heliotrope)

Bloodstone, also known as Heliotrope, is a variety of jasper or chalcedony that is dark green with bright red spots of iron oxide (typically hematite). The red spots are said to resemble drops of blood, giving the stone its evocative name. It has been used as a gemstone and for protective amulets for over two millennia and was highly favored in the ancient world for its supposed magical properties.

Formation & Geology

Bloodstone is a cryptocrystalline variety of quartz, meaning its crystals are too small to be seen even under a microscope. It forms in low-temperature environments, often within the cavities of volcanic rocks. The dark green base color is caused by inclusions of chlorite or actinolite needles, while the 'blood' spots are concentrated pockets of iron oxide. It is basically a specialized type of green jasper.

Physical Characteristics

Like all quartz varieties, bloodstone has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 and no cleavage. It has a vitreous to waxy luster and is usually opaque, though thin edges may be slightly translucent. It is a very tough and durable stone, making it excellent for signet rings and carvings. The quality of the stone is judged by the richness of the green and the brightness and distribution of the red spots.

Historical Significance

In the ancient world, it was called 'Heliotrope' (from Greek meaning 'sun-turner') because of a belief that it turned the reflection of the sun red when placed in water. Christians in the Middle Ages believed the red spots were the blood of Christ that fell on green jasper at the foot of the cross. Because of this, it was called the 'Martyr's Stone' and was used in many religious carvings and sculptures. It is a traditional birthstone for March.