Quartz Family · common
Bloodstone
Bloodstone (heliotrope) is a dark green chalcedony with red spots of iron oxide. The red spots resemble drops of blood, giving it its name.
Also known as: heliotrope, march birthstone, green chalcedony.
Bloodstone properties at a glance
| Type | Quartz Family |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | SiO2 |
| Mohs hardness | 7 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal |
| Luster | waxy |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 2.6 |
| Transparency | opaque |
| Common colors | Dark Green with Red spots |
| Rarity | common |
Geology & background
Forms when iron-rich silica deposits in volcanic or sedimentary rocks. Red spots are iron oxide inclusions.
In medieval times, bloodstone was believed to have formed from drops of Christ's blood at the crucifixion.
How to identify Bloodstone
- Check whether the specimen's color and texture match typical Bloodstone examples.
- Photograph a fresh surface in natural light and avoid shadows, glare, or wet surfaces.
- Use hardness, streak, luster, grain size, and locality together; no single trait is enough for every specimen.
Full Bloodstone identification guide: checklist, home tests and look-alikes →
Bloodstone vs similar stones
Not sure it isn't something else? Side-by-side comparisons with the stones most often confused with Bloodstone.
Where Bloodstone is found
Bloodstone is reported from multiple localities or geological settings. Exact locality should be verified from specimen provenance, maps, or field notes.
How much is Bloodstone worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $5 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $25 |
| Premium specimen | $150+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Jewelry
- Seals
- Carvings
Interesting facts
- Also called heliotrope, meaning 'sun-turning'
- Medieval Christians associated it with Christ's blood
- Traditional birthstone for March
Care & safety
Treat Bloodstone as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
Bloodstone FAQ
What is Bloodstone?
Bloodstone (heliotrope) is a dark green chalcedony with red spots of iron oxide. The red spots resemble drops of blood, giving it its name.
How much is Bloodstone worth?
Entry-level Bloodstone specimens sell for around $5, a typical collector specimen for about $25, and premium pieces for $150 or more. Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
How hard is Bloodstone?
Bloodstone has a Mohs hardness of 7. It scratches glass and a steel knife and cannot be scratched by a steel file.
Where is Bloodstone found?
Notable sources of Bloodstone include India, Brazil, Australia, USA, and Madagascar. Forms when iron-rich silica deposits in volcanic or sedimentary rocks.
What is Bloodstone used for?
Bloodstone is used for jewelry, seals, and carvings.
