Best Bloodstone Locket: UK Buying and Care Guide

By Scott Smith. Last reviewed 23 October 2026.

What Is Bloodstone and How Does It Look?

Bloodstone is a dark green chalcedony with small red spots of iron oxide, which gave the stone its name. It is usually cut as a smooth, domed cabochon rather than faceted, so it has a soft, polished look instead of sparkle. Each stone has its own pattern, so two lockets from the same listing may show different amounts of red. Bloodstone is the traditional birthstone for March in some older lists, alongside aquamarine. It is around 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which makes it tough enough for a locket front. When you compare listings, look at the photos for the stone size and how much red flecking shows. A stone covering most of the locket face gives a bold look, while a small inset cabochon feels quieter. If the colour matters to you, ask the seller for a photo of the exact piece, since natural patterns vary a great deal from stone to stone.

How Do These Bloodstone Lockets Compare?

The table lists each locket with who it suits and one detail from its listing. Check the inner frame size and the metal first, as those decide what fits inside and how it lasts.

What Size Locket Should I Choose?

A bloodstone locket necklace is usually 15 to 30 mm across, and the right size depends on what you want to keep inside and how you will wear it. Small lockets under 20 mm are discreet and sit nicely under a collar, but they only fit a tiny cropped photo. Larger ones of 25 mm and above hold a clearer picture or a folded note and make more of a statement. Before buying, check the inner frame size in the listing, not just the outer measurement, because the case walls take up space. Cut a paper square to that size and hold it to the photo you want to use to see how much of the face fits. Heart shaped lockets need a photo trimmed to match the curve. Oval shapes are easier to fill. If the locket is very heavy, choose a chain at least 1.5 mm wide so it does not twist or stretch.

How Do I Check the Hinge and Clasp Are Strong?

A good locket has a firm hinge that opens with a small lip or button and closes with a clear click. Look for photos of the locket open, which show whether the hinge pin is solid and the inner frames sit flat. Cheaper pieces sometimes use a thin pressed hinge that loosens after repeated opening. Sterling silver and solid gold lockets usually wear better than plated base metal, which can rub through at the edges. Compare the chain clasp as well: a lobster clasp is more secure than a small spring ring on a heavier piece. Engraved lockets add a design or initials to the back, so check whether the engraving is included or charged as extra. If the stone is set into the front, confirm it is held by a rim rather than glued only. Open and close the locket gently in the first few days, and avoid snapping it shut with force.

How Do I Fit a Photo Inside a Locket?

The easiest way is to print the photo at the inner frame size, then trim it with small scissors to the exact shape. Measure the inside of the frame with a ruler in millimetres, or press a piece of paper into the opening and trace around the edge with a pencil to make a template. Print the photo slightly larger than needed, centre the face over the template and cut carefully. Most bloodstone lockets have a thin clear cover or a small rim that holds the picture in place, so slide the photo under it from one side. If there is no cover, a tiny dot of photo safe glue keeps it flat. Glossy photo paper looks sharper than plain paper at this small size. Some sellers offer a photo fitting service, which helps if the frame is very small or heart shaped. Keep a spare copy of the trimmed photo in case the first one is damaged when the locket is opened often.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Choose the Right Bloodstone Locket?

Decide what you want to keep inside first, then choose a locket with an inner frame large enough to hold it. Next pick the metal and shape that suit your style. Finally check the chain length, because most lockets sit best on a chain of 45 to 50 cm.

Is a Bloodstone Locket Suitable for Everyday Wear?

A well made locket can be worn daily, as bloodstone is fairly hard and resists light knocks. Choose a sturdy chain and a secure clasp for regular wear. Take it off for swimming and bathing so water does not get inside and damage the photo.

How Do I Look After a Bloodstone Locket?

Wipe the stone and case with a soft, dry cloth after wearing, and use a slightly damp cloth for marks. Avoid soaking the locket, as water can reach the photo inside. Keep silver lockets in a sealed pouch to slow tarnish between wears.

Which Metal Suits a Bloodstone Locket?

Sterling silver gives a cool contrast against the dark green stone and is a popular, affordable choice. Yellow gold brings out the red flecks and looks more traditional. Solid metals last longer than plated cases, which can wear at the hinge and edges with frequent opening.

Does a Bloodstone Locket Make a Good Gift?

It makes a meaningful gift, because the recipient can keep a photo, lock of hair or note inside. Lockets suit birthdays, anniversaries and memorial gifts alike. Check whether engraving is offered, and allow extra delivery time if personalisation is part of the order.