noun

heliotrope

A dark green mineral with red spots, also called bloodstone.

The jeweler polishes a piece of heliotrope for a pendant.

Etymology

The Greek name means sun-turning. The stone’s name reflects ancient beliefs about its effects on reflected sunlight, rather than its modern identification by red spots in green stone.

More examples

  • Red spots stand out against the dark green heliotrope.
  • This carved seal is made of heliotrope.
  • She chooses heliotrope rather than jade for her ring.

Forms

heliotrope

Similar words

bloodstone
Names the same dark green mineral with red spots.