Comparison · Quartz Family
Bloodstone vs Jasper
Bloodstone and Jasper are easy to confuse because both are quartz family. Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Bloodstone and Jasper
- Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Luster is different: Bloodstone is waxy while Jasper is vitreous.
- They overlap in green and red, but Jasper also comes in yellow, brown, and multicolored.
Bloodstone vs Jasper properties
| Property | Bloodstone | Jasper |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Quartz Family | Quartz Family |
| Mohs hardness | 7 | 7 |
| Luster | waxy | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | opaque | opaque |
| Specific gravity | 2.6 | 2.6 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal | hexagonal |
| Common colors | Dark Green with Red spots | Red, Yellow, Brown, Green, Multi-colored |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $5–$150+ | $5–$150+ |
Which is more valuable?
Bloodstone is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $25 against $20 for Jasper, and premium Bloodstone can reach $150 or more.
About Bloodstone
Bloodstone (heliotrope) is a dark green chalcedony with red spots of iron oxide. The red spots resemble drops of blood, giving it its name.
About Jasper
Jasper is an opaque variety of chalcedony found in a wide array of colors and patterns. Each variety has unique characteristics based on its formation.
Bloodstone vs Jasper FAQ
Is Bloodstone the same as Jasper?
No. Both are quartz family, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Bloodstone from Jasper?
Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Luster is different: Bloodstone is waxy while Jasper is vitreous. They overlap in green and red, but Jasper also comes in yellow, brown, and multicolored.
Which is harder, Bloodstone or Jasper?
They are about equally hard, both near Mohs 7.
Which is more valuable, Bloodstone or Jasper?
Bloodstone is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $25 against $20 for Jasper, and premium Bloodstone can reach $150 or more.
