Dragon Blood Jasper
Quartz (var. Jasper) with Epidote and Piedmontite · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Trigonal/Microcrystalline; massive habit with no visible crystal faces
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates and Sorosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Quartz) + Ca2(Al,Fe)3(SiO4)3(OH) (Epidote)
Formation Process
Metamorphic or Hydrothermal; formed through the silicification of volcanic rocks or epidotic minerals under heat and pressure
About This Crystal
An opaque, microcrystalline stone featuring a mottled pattern of deep forest green (epidote) and earthy red (piedmontite/hematite) swirls. It displays a vitreous to earthy luster and a smooth, tumble-polished surface.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Green and Red; Streak: White to reddish; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal to splintery; Specific Gravity: 2.6 – 2.9; Tenacity: Brittle; Fluorescence: Generally none.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: Approx. 1.54; Birefringence: None (aggregate); Pleochroism: None; Optical Character: Cryptocrystalline aggregate.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Primarily sourced from the Tshipise region in Limpopo, South Africa and Western Australia
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 6.5 to 7.0; Toughness: Very High; Stability: Stable under normal light and heat; Excellent wearability for all jewelry types.
Care & Maintenance
Safe to clean with warm soapy water and soft brush; usually safe for ultrasonic cleaners. Store away from harder stones like diamonds to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common; Value is driven by the balance and attractiveness of the red-to-green patterning. Very affordable, often sold by weight or as inexpensive cabochons.
Special Characteristics
Known for its unique 'mottled' or 'landscape' appearance; the red areas are caused by iron oxide inclusions (Piedmontite or Hematite) within the green Epidote matrix.
Lore & History
Historically associated with the legends of dragons, where the green represents the dragon scales and red represents drops of blood. In metaphysical traditions, it is used for the Root and Heart chakras to promote courage, vitality, and inner strength.