Bloodstone is a dark green chalcedony that's also known as heliotrope. Its crystals are too small to be seen with the naked eye.
The red markings from which bloodstone gets its name are inclusions of iron oxides. They come mostly from the mineral hematite.
These dark red spots were once likened to the blood of Christ.
Bloodstone has long been used as an amulet to stop bleeding. During the Middle Ages it was believed to control the weather, banish evil thoughts and direct spiritual energies.
The colour of bloodstone is always natural. This is because when heated the green part of the stone turns grey and the red markings turn black.
AVENTURINE
