5" African Bloodstone Crystal Skull
5" African Bloodstone Crystal Skull
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Hand-carved from natural African Bloodstone, this human skull features grey-green and deep green areas, pale mineral patches, and vivid red markings. African Bloodstone is a chalcedony-based carving material recognized for deep green areas, pale inclusions, and contrasting red markings. The polished stone carries these natural variations across the crown, facial structure, and defined jaw.
Material: 100% Natural African Bloodstone (Heliotrope)
Width × Depth × Height: 5.0" × 3.8" × 3.3" (127 × 97 × 84 mm)
Weight: 1300–1400 g
Stone Origin: South Africa
Hardness & Specific Gravity:
Mohs: approximately 6–7
SG: approximately 2.6–2.7
Edition: Core Collection
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Material & Craft
The Material
Bloodstone, traditionally also known as heliotrope, is a variety of chalcedony composed primarily of microcrystalline quartz. It is characterized by a dark green to nearly black-green ground containing red spots, patches, or veins commonly associated with iron oxides, particularly hematite. The concentration and placement of these markings vary naturally, producing significant differences between individual pieces.
The Craft
Each skull is carved from a selected block of natural stone and progressively shaped to define the brow ridge, orbital cavities, nasal opening, cheekbones, teeth, and jawline. Successive stages of grinding and polishing refine the surface while preserving the clarity of the anatomical structure.
Because the carving process responds to the characteristics of the individual material, minor variations in proportion and surface detail may occur.
Form & Meaning
The human skull is one of the most enduring forms in art. Stripped of expression and identity, it reduces the human figure to its underlying structure.
Across different artistic traditions, the skull has been used to reflect on mortality, time, equality, and the material nature of human life. In contemporary stone carving, it creates a direct contrast between a universally recognizable anatomical form and the individual character of natural stone.
EXACT PIECE & CARE
You will receive the exact piece shown, with its unique natural color, banding, inclusions, and patterns.
Care: African Bloodstone is a relatively durable quartz-based material but should still be protected from severe impact and contact with abrasive objects. Avoid strong acids, alkaline cleaners, and sudden temperature changes. Remove dust with a clean, soft cloth. If additional cleaning is necessary, use lukewarm water with mild soap, then rinse lightly and dry the sculpture thoroughly.