Comparison · Quartz Family
Bloodstone vs Tiger's Eye
Bloodstone and Tiger's Eye 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 Tiger's Eye
- Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- They overlap in red, but Bloodstone also comes in green and Tiger's Eye also comes in brown and yellow.
Bloodstone vs Tiger's Eye properties
| Property | Bloodstone | Tiger's Eye |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Quartz Family | Quartz Family |
| Mohs hardness | 7 | 7 |
| Luster | waxy | silky |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | opaque | opaque |
| Specific gravity | 2.6 | 2.65 |
| Crystal system | hexagonal | hexagonal |
| Common colors | Dark Green with Red spots | Golden Brown, Yellow, Red |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $5–$150+ | $5–$100+ |
Which is more valuable?
Bloodstone is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $25 against $20 for Tiger's Eye, 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 Tiger's Eye
Tiger's eye is a chatoyant gemstone displaying a silky luster and banded appearance. The optical effect resembles a cat's eye or tiger's eye.
Bloodstone vs Tiger's Eye FAQ
Is Bloodstone the same as Tiger's Eye?
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 Tiger's Eye?
Both sit near Mohs 7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. They overlap in red, but Bloodstone also comes in green and Tiger's Eye also comes in brown and yellow.
Which is harder, Bloodstone or Tiger's Eye?
They are about equally hard, both near Mohs 7.
Which is more valuable, Bloodstone or Tiger's Eye?
Bloodstone is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $25 against $20 for Tiger's Eye, and premium Bloodstone can reach $150 or more.
