This study explores the origin of the abandoned heliotrope mines in Balut Kandi, a rural area in Razey city (Meshgin Shahr County, Ardabil province). Carved heliotropes were predominantly used as ornaments during the Safavid dynasty, especially by dwellers living in Azerbaijan, Iran, and the Caucasus. Field surveys suggest that the origin of the abandoned heliotrope mines of the Safavid dynasty is Balut Kandi which, according to archeological and crystallography observations, has been the center of heliotrope mines in Northwest Iran during this historical period. Balut Kandi is full of heliotrope minerals, and some carved heliotrope minerals of the Safavid dynasty are still used as ornaments by the locals. These minerals are similar in terms of color, hardness, and chemical formula. Containing chlorite and amphibole minerals, the heliotropes in Balut Kandi occur mostly as jasper. Based on library and field surveys and museum observations, this study employs a descriptive-analytical approach to investigate heliotrope minerals in Balut Kandi as precious and semi-precious stones, both archaeologically and geologically. According to findings, heliotrope minerals in Balut Kandi are among the rare minerals worldwide and hold a great gemological inducement for investment and employment.
