Heliotrope (mineral)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The mineral heliotrope, also known as bloodstone, is a form of chalcedony, which is a cryptocrystalline quartz. The "classic" bloodstone is green jasper with red inclusions of iron oxide (red jasper). Sometimes yellow and/or other colors of jasper are also present, but these multi-colored gemstones are usually called "fancy jasper".
The red inclusions are supposed to resemble spots of blood; hence the name "bloodstone". The name "heliotrope" (from Greek helios, Sun, trepein, to turn) derives from various ancient notions about the manner in which the mineral reflects light.
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[edit] Sources
The primary source of the stone is India. It is also found in Brazil, China, Australia, and the United States.
[edit] German name
Hematite is called bloodstone in Germany. Heliotrope is called bluestone to differentiate the two.[clarify]
[edit] Legends and lore
Bloodstone is the original birthstone for March. Today, bloodstone, jasper and aquamarine are all considered the gemstones for March. It is said that bloodstone creates harmony and balance, and promotes self-esteem.
In the Middle Ages the red spots were thought to be the blood of Jesus, and the stone was believed to have miraculous powers, including making its wearer invisible. Boccaccio writes about it in his Decameron (VIII, 3).
[edit] Properties
Hardness on the Mohs scale: 7
Crystal structure: Trigonal
Composition: Silicon dioxide with traces of impurities
Specific gravity: 2.61
Refraction index: 1.53-1.54
Birefraction index: 0.004
Luster: Vitreous
[edit] References
Hall, Candy (1994). Gem Stones. DK Publishing. ISBN 1-56458-498-4
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