The bloodstone is March’s second birthstone, alongside the Aquamarine. While the aquamarine is bright and feminine, this stone makes for more masculine jewellery pieces and suits signet rings well.

Bloodstone is also called heliotrope, which comes from the ancient Greek word that means “to turn the sun”. It is a variety of chalcedony (cryptocrystalline quartz) and in ancient times, they were believed to turn the sun red if placed in water.

What Colour is a Bloodstone?

This moody-looking birthstone is typically dark green in colour and contains red spots of iron oxide. In ancient times, it was believed that the red spots represented the “blood” that brings health and strength to the wearer.

The colour and number of spots on the stone will determine its value. Bloodstones with a large number of deep red or dark orange spots will usually sell for a higher amount. The lapidary (the engraving, cutting, or polishing) of the stone will also play a huge role in its value.

Bloodstones are commonly cut into Cabochons and faceted cuts.

What does the Bloodstone symbolise?

Over the years, many metaphysical properties have been given to this gemstone.

These metaphysical properties include strength, giving invisibility, as well as preserving one's health and youth.

Today, many believe the gemstone is a lucky charm, as it is prized by athletes and others who want to grow their strength. In India, fine bloodstones may be crushed into a powder and used as an aphrodisiac.

Bloodstone Origin

It is predominantly mined and imported from India, however, it can be found in a number of countries around the world which include Brazil, Australia, China, and the United States.

Bloodstones can also be found filling fractures or cavities in other rocks or as pebbles in riverbeds.

If you would like to mark your own or a loved one’s March birthday, take a closer look at Our Ellie and Giraffe Seal pendants which are both set with bloodstones.