Bloodstone Gemstone Beads

Frequently asked questions

• Where does bloodstone come from?

  Commercial bloodstone in the bead trade is sourced principally from India, particularly the Deccan Traps region in west-central India — a vast volcanic province whose silica-rich basalts have produced bloodstone for centuries. Smaller deposits exist in Australia, Brazil, and the United States, but Indian material is the trade default. All bloodstone in Dakota's current catalog is Indian-sourced; origin should appear on the product page — ask before buying if it isn't specified.
• Is bloodstone dyed?

  No — every bloodstone strand in Dakota's current catalog is sold natural. The dark green color comes from chlorite and amphibole inclusions in the chalcedony base; the red flecks are intrinsic iron-oxide (hematite) deposits. Dye and stabilization are uncommon for this variety because the natural look is already what designers want. Suspiciously vivid green with too-uniform red spotting can be a dye signal in the broader market.
• What is the difference between bloodstone and heliotrope?

  They are the same stone. "Heliotrope" is the older mineralogical name, used in medieval lapidary literature and still seen in geological references today. "Bloodstone" is the common English trade name, derived from the visual reading of the red iron-oxide flecks as drops of blood against the dark green chalcedony field. Designers familiar with older lapidary writing may search either term.
• How durable is bloodstone for daily wear?

  Mohs 6.5–7 — durable enough for any jewelry application including rings, bracelets, and necklaces. Standard care: wipe with a soft cloth and mild soap; no special handling required. Because bloodstone is sold natural with no dye, there is no fade risk and no concern about ultrasonic or steam cleaning.
• What sizes does Dakota carry?

  Dakota's active bloodstone inventory centers on 6mm and 8mm rounds, with 4mm and 10mm also stocked, and occasional rondelle and larger focal sizes. Full size and shape availability is filterable in the grid above; specific strand specifications including bead count and drill size are on each product page.