Stone Mask

An ancient artifact that transforms humans into vampires.

The Stone Mask is an ancient artifact made of stone that appears in JoJo's Bizarre Adventure. It was created by an ancient human civilization, not the Pillar Men. When a human applies the mask to their face with blood, it transforms them into a vampire. The mask is first seen in the 13th century (in a flashback to the Aztec civilization) and later reappears in the late 19th century, where it is used by Dio Brando to become a vampire after his plans to usurp Jonathan Joestar's position are thwarted.

Quick Facts

Notable users: Dio Brando, Various Vampires

Lore & Background

The Stone Mask was created by an ancient human civilization, not the Pillar Men. In the series, the mask is used by Dio Brando, who transforms himself into a vampire using it after his attempts to usurp Jonathan Joestar's position as heir to the Joestar family are thwarted. The mask requires blood to activate; when Dio applies it while bleeding, he becomes a vampire—though he is not the first modern vampire in the series, as the mask had been used earlier, for instance by a zombie-like creature created by Dio that attacked Jonathan's father, not a direct mask user. The transformation grants vampiric abilities but also makes the user vulnerable to sunlight. The mask is also sought after by the Pillar Men, who use the Red Stone of Aja to amplify the mask's effect for themselves, not to complete any transformation—the mask is already functional.

Reader's Guide

The Stone Mask is an ancient artifact that transforms humans into vampires when applied to the face with blood. It was created by the Pillar Men, powerful humanoids who are also responsible for its existence. The mask is first used by Dio Brando in the late 19th century, turning him into a vampire. The transformation grants vampiric abilities, such as rapid regeneration and superhuman strength, but also makes the user vulnerable to sunlight. The mask is also central to the plans of the Pillar Men, who seek the Red Stone of Aja to enhance its power and become invincible superbeings. In 1938, the Pillar Men awaken and escape in search of the Red Stone, leading to a conflict with Joseph Joestar and his allies.