Bloodstone (Heliotrope)
Quartz var. Heliotrope (Cryptocrystalline Chalcedony) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal (Hexagonal) system with a microcrystalline/cryptocrystalline habit; typically found as massive nodules or pebbles.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate subgroup; Chalcedony variety of Quartz)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 (Silicon Dioxide) with Fe2O3 (Hematite) or Silicate (Chlorite/Amphibole) inclusions
Formation Process
Hydrothermal/Sedimentary; forms when silica-rich fluids precipitate at relatively low temperatures in cavities of volcanic rocks or as part of sedimentary processes.
About This Crystal
The specimen is a polished, heart-shaped stone measuring approximately 2cm. It exhibits a deep, dark forest-green body color with a waxy to vitreous luster. It appears mostly opaque with mottled patterns and a localized brownish-red patch (hematite) on the right side.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Dark green with red/brown spots; Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 2.58–2.64; Tenacity: Brittle but tough due to interlocking structure; Non-fluorescent.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544–1.553; Birefringence: Low (0.009); Pleochroism: None; Optical Character: Aggregates are typically singly refractive due to cryptocrystalline nature; Phenomenon: None.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Major sources include India (Deccan Traps), Brazil, Australia, China, and the United Kingdom (Isle of Rum). Found in hydrothermal veins and volcanic cavities.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 6.5 to 7; Good toughness and excellent durability for jewelry; resistant to most household chemicals but can be scratched by harder stones like topaz or sapphire.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning which may damage fractures or inclusions. Store separately to avoid scratching softer materials or being scratched by harder ones.
Rarity & Value
Common; Value is determined by the size and the distribution of 'blood' red spots (hematite) against the dark green background. Highly saturated specimens with distinct red spotting are more valuable. Treatments like dyeing are rare but possible.
Special Characteristics
Characterized by the presence of red jasper or iron oxide (hematite) inclusions within the green chalcedony, creating a 'blood-spattered' appearance. Some specimens may show occasional translucency at thin edges.
Lore & History
Known in antiquity as Heliotrope ('Sun Turner'). Historically used by Babylonians for divination and by medieval Christians who believed the red spots were the blood of Christ. Traditionally associated with the Heart and Root chakras, symbolized as a stone of courage and detoxification.