mineral

Bloodstone (Heliotrope)

Cryptocrystalline Quartz (SiO2) with inclusions of Hematite or Chlorite

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Dark green with red spots or mottling; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7.

Hardness: 6
Color: Dark green with red spots or mottling
Luster: Vitreous to waxy

Identified May 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 6.5-7 on Mohs scale; Color: Dark green with red spots or mottling; Luster: Vitreous to waxy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal/Microcrystalline; Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.7.

Formation & geological history

Formed at shallow depths and low temperatures through the precipitation of silica from groundwater in fractures and cavities of other rocks, often associated with volcanic activity.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for jewelry, gemstone carvings, cabochons, and as a popular collector's mineral believed by some cultures to have metaphysical properties.

Geological facts

In the Middle Ages, the red spots in bloodstone were believed to be the blood of Jesus, leading to its extensive use in religious sculptures and martyrs' cameos.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its deep moss-green body color and characteristic red 'blood' speckles. It is a variety of chalcedony. Commonly found in India, Brazil, Australia, and Germany.

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