Picture a stone that looks like it has drops of blood sprinkled across its surface— that’s bloodstone. Also known as heliotrope, it’s a type of gem that’s mainly dark green and has little red spots.

It gets its unique green color from tiny particles of other minerals mixed in, while those famous red spots come from iron oxide, the same stuff that makes rust red.

There are different types of bloodstone out there. Some might have more green, while others have more red spots. What bloodstone looks like can tell you a lot about its origins. Join us as we discover these bloodstone types and what sets them apart!

The 6 Different Types Of Bloodstone And What They Look Like

Bloodstone is a form of chalcedony, which is a cryptocrystalline mixture of quartz. It’s known for its distinct colors.

However, there are variations in bloodstone types, based on their color patterns and the locations where they are found. Here are its main types:

Classic Bloodstone

Classic bloodstone stands out with its deep, dark green background dotted with vivid red spots. This unique color combination comes from the green silica base mixed with iron oxide inclusions, which are responsible for the red speckles.

Unlike other bloodstones that might have variations in color intensity or additional colors like yellow or orange, classic bloodstone sticks to this classic green and red palette.

The contrast between the two colors creates a bold and captivating visual effect. This is why classic bloodstone is particularly valued in artistic and decorative pieces.

Historically, this bloodstone type was used in seals and amulets. Due to its durability and the belief in its protective qualities, it was often carved into intricate designs and used to seal important documents or worn as an amulet for protection.

Where you can find classic bloodstone

Classic bloodstone thrives in areas rich in volcanic rocks and can often be found in riverbeds and deposits where ancient lava flows have cooled.

India is famously known for its high-quality bloodstones, but you’ll also find them in other parts of the world, including Brazil and Australia. It isn’t as commonly found in the USA, but rockhounds have discovered it in some western states.

African Bloodstone

Unlike the classic bloodstone that’s known for its deep green color with red spots, African bloodstone shows off a richer, sometimes darker green base. What really sets it apart, though, are the additional colors it flaunts.

You’ll often find African bloodstone dotted not only with the traditional red spots but also with hints of yellow and sometimes even orange.

This bloodstone type is valued for its vibrant appearance and the way it catches the eye. Its diverse color palette adds an extra layer of beauty, making it a sought-after material for jewelry and decorative items.

People love how it looks in all sorts of settings, from elegant pendants to bold, statement pieces.

Where you can find African bloodstone

African bloodstone likes warm and geologically diverse spots. This gem finds its groove in areas rich with ancient volcanic activity. Africa, as you might guess from its name, is where this stone shines.

Namibia and South Africa are two places where you’re likely to find it, thanks to their perfect mix of natural history and mineral wealth.

Indian Bloodstone

Indian bloodstone is like the classic bloodstone’s cousin but it has its unique flair. It often shows off a deeper, sometimes brighter green background.

And those iconic red spots? They’re there, but sometimes you’ll find they’re mixed with more subtle shades.

The way it looks so vibrant when polished sets this bloodstone type apart. It turns into this glossy, eye-catching stone that looks amazing in jewelry or as a standout piece in a collection.

People value it not just for its beauty, but also for its rarity and the skill it takes to shape and polish it. Long ago, artisans would carve it into seals and amulets, marveling at how the natural patterns and colors made each piece one-of-a-kind.

Where you can find Indian bloodstone

Indian bloodstone loves spots in India, especially where there’s been a lot of volcanic activity in the past. Specifically, places like Karnataka and Tamil Nadu are famous for their bloodstone.

Seftonite

Seftonite is a unique twist on the bloodstone types. Its color palette is something to talk about. Instead of the deep green you might expect, it showcases a lighter, often more vibrant shade of green.

And those signature red spots? They’re there, but in seftonite, they can appear more subdued or spread out, giving it a distinct look all its own.

What makes it stand out even more is its smooth, almost silky appearance, which makes it popular for polished stones and jewelry. It’s not just the looks that get people excited; it’s also how rare and special it feels to hold a piece of this stone.

Its nickname, “Vulcan’s blood,” comes from the ancient Roman god of fire, Vulcan, which hints at the stone’s fiery appearance and volcanic origins.

Where you can find seftonite

Seftonite is mainly found in places with rich, volcanic soil. South Africa is a big name when it comes to this bloodstone type, offering up some of the most vibrant pieces. This stone also enjoys the landscapes of Brazil.

Heliotrope Jasper

Heliotrope jasper has a deep green color that’s like a dense, mysterious forest and splatters of red scattered across it, looking like drops of blood.

Unlike other bloodstone types, heliotrope jasper has a glossy sheen and a smoother surface.

It’s also tougher and more durable, which is why jewelers and collectors dig it so much. They can use it in all kinds of jewelry without worrying too much about it getting scratched or damaged.

Back in the day, people believed that heliotrope jasper could turn the sun red if it was placed in water. It’s these old tales and its striking appearance that make it a hit with folks who love a good story behind their gems.

Where you can find heliotrope jasper

Heliotrope jasper is not found just anywhere. India, Brazil, and Australia are some of the hotspots where this gem makes its home. In these spots, it grows in the shadows of ancient volcanoes and riverbeds.

Dragon Bloodstone

Dragon bloodstone is a real showstopper with its vibrant colors and patterns. It looks like it’s straight out of a fantasy book: a bright, deep green background speckled with spots and streaks of red.

While classic bloodstones have a darker, more subtle green with fewer red spots, dragon bloodstone’s contrast is much more striking.

The red inclusions against the green remind people of dragon scales, which is where it gets its name.

Folks love dragon bloodstone for its beauty and the story it tells through its appearance. It’s a favorite among those who appreciate the natural art found in stones and gems.

Where you can find dragon bloodstone

Dragon bloodstone, with its vivid mix of green and red, mostly comes from Australia. It’s also found in India and China, where unique conditions help form its striking colors.