Bloodstone is a dark green variety of chalcedony — the same family as agate — speckled with red. The green comes from chlorite, the red flecks from iron oxide. In Türkiye it is known as kan taşı, and it has been set into men's rings here for a very long time.
Why it is prized
Traditionally bloodstone is associated with strength, endurance and steady blood — a stone worn by people who work hard. In the Islamic world it also appears as a seal stone because it takes engraving cleanly without chipping.
How to spot a natural one
- The red flecks should be irregular in size and scattered unevenly. Perfectly round dots at regular intervals suggest dyed jasper.
- Hold it to a strong light: natural bloodstone is almost opaque, with a faint translucent edge.
- Dyed stones often show colour concentrated in cracks. Look at the sides of the cabochon, not just the top.
Living with the stone
Bloodstone is about 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale, hard enough for daily wear — this is not a delicate stone. It is not porous like turquoise, so a wash in warm soapy water with a soft brush is safe. Avoid bleach and strong solvents, which can dull the polish over time.
What suits it
Because the stone is dark and matte rather than bright, it pairs well with oxidised silver: the blackened recesses of a handmade band make the green read deeper. A bloodstone ring is a quiet piece — it looks better in daylight than under a jeweller's spotlight, which is exactly why people keep wearing them for decades.