Dark green with flecks of red, bloodstone is the classic stone of the English gentleman's signet ring. It is also one of the most symbolic stones in jewellery.
What is bloodstone?
Bloodstone, also called heliotrope, is a dark green chalcedony scattered with red spots. It is hard and fine-grained, which makes it ideal for engraving, and its dark ground makes a crest stand out sharply in wax.
The meaning of bloodstone
Bloodstone was known as the "stone of courage". Warriors are said to have worn it in battle for protection and to stop wounds from bleeding. In Christian tradition the red spots were linked to the blood of Christ. Today bloodstone is one of the birthstones for March, which makes an antique bloodstone signet a meaningful gift.
Why the Victorians loved it
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, bloodstone became the signature stone for men's signet rings: oval, rectangular or shield-shaped, set in heavy 15ct or 18ct gold with sculpted shoulders. Some were sold uncarved, to be engraved later with the owner's crest; many remain blank today and can still be personalised.
Crests and mottoes
Carved bloodstone signets often carry a full coat of arms. One we sold, c.1880, bore the motto Frangas non flectes, "you may break me, but you shall not bend me", used by several noble families and Irish clans. Others carried a dove with an olive branch and Dum spiro spero ("while I breathe, I hope"), a huntsman blowing a horn, or an arm holding a dagger.
Locket and "poison" rings
A few Victorian bloodstone signets hide a secret. The bezel is hinged and opens to a small compartment, sometimes behind glass, for a lock of hair or a keepsake. Collectors call these locket or "poison" rings.
What to look for
- The stone's edges. Chips at the corners are the most common damage.
- Engraving quality. A good crest is crisp and deep enough to make a clear seal.
- Hallmarks. English rings are often fully marked, giving maker, town and year.
- Weight and shoulders. Heavier mounts with defined shoulders are the most sought after.
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