Photo of Bloodstone in Processed & Rough Form
Bloodstone is a mineral with a hardness of 7 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness [?]. These Trigonally structured gems are made of silicon dioxide, their full chemical compound being SiO2.
Bloodstone is a member of the Chalcedony group. Why is it called Bloodstone? Well because in polished and rough form this gem / mineral looks like blood, on a stone. (see photo)
Bloodstone is sometimes referred to as Plasma or Heliotrope. Heliotrope is a birthstone for March. The name plasma is used to define a bloodstone with yellow inclusions, and not red ones.
Despite its relative hardness (7 out of 10 on the Mohs scale), this mineral is usually polished and not cut.
Typical bloodstone is dark green with red inclusions, but as stated earlier it is sometimes dark green with yellow inclusions.
What is Bloodstone?
Bloodstone is a dark green variety of chalcedony (jasper) with distinctive red spots caused by iron oxide. Also known as Heliotrope, it's characterized by its unique dark green color with blood-red specks.
Where is Bloodstone found?
Major deposits exist in India, Brazil, Australia, Germany, and the United States. The finest specimens traditionally come from India.
How can I identify real Bloodstone?
Real bloodstone has a hardness of 6.5-7, shows natural variation in spots, and has a waxy luster. The base should be deep green with natural-looking red inclusions, not painted or dyed.
What's the history behind Bloodstone?
Ancient civilizations believed it formed at the crucifixion of Christ (hence the name). Used as a seal stone in ancient times and traditionally believed to have healing properties.
What determines its value?
Quality depends on the base color's darkness, number and distribution of red spots, and overall pattern. Traditional pieces with deep green color and bright red spots are most valued.
How is it commonly used?
Popular in men's jewelry (rings, cufflinks), carved items, seals, and decorative objects. Often cut as cabochons or used in inlay work.
The specific gravity [?] for Bloodstone is 2.61, its refractive index [?] is 1.53-1.54, and its double refraction [?] is 0.004.
History
Native Americans used Chalcedony in ceremonies. Chalcedony has also been used to create seals as far back as the bronze age.
Ancient civilizations used Bloodstone as amulets and medicine. Medieval Christians linked its red spots to Christ's blood, naming it "martyr's stone." Greeks called it "Heliotrope" (sun turner). Now used in jewelry and collecting.
Industrial Usages
It is sometimes used in the manufacturing of electronic devices.
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