What is Bloodstone?
Bloodstone, also known as Heliotrope is widely occurring, easily obtainable and forms in large deposits. It is a form of Jasper, and also of Quartz, carrying the remarkable metaphysical and healing properties of both of these groups of crystals. And it measures between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale for hardness.
The Origin: Where Is Bloodstone Found?
Bloodstone is readily available and is sourced from Australia, Russia, India, the Czech Republic, Brazil, and China.
The History & Lore of Bloodstone
Bloodstone is an ancient crystal that has been used by different cultures and traditions throughout human history.
The symbolism and meaning of Bloodstone are not linear and its historical uses vary from society to society.
Although there are common threads that seem to occur whenever and wherever Bloodstone is found.
For example, the cleansing nature of Bloodstone has been acknowledged by a variety of civilizations.
Bloodstone is credited with the power to cleanse and purify on all levels, including spiritual, physical, and esoteric.
It has a long history of use as a talisman against evil influences and spirits.
The Christian interpretation of the meaning of Bloodstone says that the blood of Christ spilled onto a piece of green Jasper at the foot of the cross, leaving the distinctive red “blood spatters” to be found on most specimens.
During the Middle Ages Bloodstone trinkets and relics were popular amongst pilgrims and pious Christians as a mark of their gratitude for the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
The mythology surrounding this aspect of Bloodstone’s symbolism led to it being referred to as the “martyr’s stone”.
Throughout the ages, the primary meaning attributed to Bloodstone has been courage.
It is a time honoured and sacred stone of protection, standing for justice and integrity in all things.
It has a reputation for providing vigorous protection and healing properties to warriors and soldiers in many cultures.
This may have arisen from the use of Bloodstone in the cleansing and healing of wounds.
In Ancient Rome and Greece, athletes often wore Bloodstone talismans to promote endurance and endurance during sports competitions.
In parts of Asia Bloodstone was crushed, ground, and sold as an aphrodisiac.
And in modern crystal healing practices, Bloodstone offers purification and detoxification properties, especially for the elimination organs of the body.
This purification extends to the aura and the bio magnetic field, offering emotional and mental support.
The name Heliotrope, by which Bloodstone was known more commonly in the 17th and 18th centuries, and in the ancient world, comes from the Greek words meaning “sun-turning”.
When the stone was placed in the rays of the setting sun it reflected the color of blood, and when immersed in water it changed the sun’s reflection from yellow to blood-red.
Greek alchemists claimed that the crystal could cause water to boil, when placed into a utensil with the water, and also cause the vessel to upturn.
Bloodstone was regarded as providing a mirror, or reflection of the prevailing energies and atmosphere around it.
It may have been this notion that led to the claims that Bloodstone, or Heliotrope, caused thunder, storms, lightning, and tempest.
Damigeron, a Roman mage reiterated these weather influencing properties and added that Heliotrope could be used in divination to predict the future and to produce the sounds of an audible oracle.
Also according to Damigeron, Heliotrope is actually a part of the Sun, fallen to earth and cooled to produce the crystal.
Freemen in Ancient Rome wore Heliotrope medallions engraved with a radiant sun, and freed slaves were eager to adopt the practice as a sign of their freedom from bondage.
The engraving shown on the medallions of freed slaves bore the image of an altar holding a flaming torch.
Bloodstone has a prominent place in the world of witchcraft and magic.
There is, of course, an herb named Heliotrope, and many spells and incantations have grown up around the combination of the crystal with the plant.
One such spell claims that it will so dazzle the eyes of onlookers that the bearer of the charm becomes invisible.
Witches and magicians used an image of a bat engraved on a piece of Bloodstone to grant the wearer power over demons and to amplify the power of their spells and incantations.
The healing and esoteric properties of Bloodstone are well documented over the millennia and often have a common thread or basis that many modern people find surprising.
For example, as far back as the 3rd Century AD the Leyden papyrus refers to a Bloodstone amulet in these terms:
“The world has no greater thing; if one has this with him, he will be given whatever he asks for.
It assuages the wrath of kings and despots, and whatever the wearer says will be believed.”
Testimonials as to the remarkable abilities of Bloodstone to staunch bleeding, heal wounds, and stop hemorrhaging are also prevalent in many ancient texts.
What we now know to be hemophilia is referenced in different sources, and the application of Bloodstone is claimed to have effected a “cure”.
The coagulant effect of Bloodstone may well be due to the iron oxide within the stone and its connection with purifying the blood and organs of elimination dates back five thousand years to the kingdom of Mesopotamia.
The Franciscan friar, Bernadino de Sahagun, wrote that he cured many Mexican Indians, after the Spanish conquest, of potentially fatal haemorrhages by placing a piece of Bloodstone in their hand.
The Spaniard Monardes, also in the 16th Century, wrote of the Spaniards and Indians alike using Bloodstone cut into the shape of hearts to prevent wounds from festering, staunch bleeding, and promote rapid healing of cuts and injuries of all types.
In Europe and the Near East during the Middle Ages Bloodstone was ground up and powdered, then mixed with honey and egg white to draw out venom from snake bites.
The book sponsored by King Alfonso X The Learned, known as the Alfonso Lapidary, claims that simply looking at a piece of Bloodstone can prevent diseases of the eyes.
It also states that hanging a piece of the stone over an abscess can clear the putrefaction in a day.
Description of Bloodstone
Also known as Heliotrope, Bloodstone can be classified as a type of Jasper or Chalcedony, which is a variety of Quartz. Bloodstone is often a combination of the two.
It is usually dark green, with blood-like spots of Red Jasper running through it.
Iron oxide inclusions are what give this crystal its distinctive appearance.
It may be translucent or opaque and has a waxy, resinous luster.
It is fairly resistant to scratches and incidental damage and measures between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale for hardness.
Bloodstone occurs in large deposits and can be purchased in almost any size, from small chippings to pieces large enough to make garden furniture or statement pieces.
How to Identify Bloodstone
Bloodstone is a member of the Jaspers and Quartz group of crystals.
It has a distinctive appearance and is usually cut into cabochons to show off its coloration and patterns.
The curving lines of a cabochon suit the stone perfectly, although you may also find Bloodstone fashioned into a faceted gem as part of a necklace or other jewelry pieces.
Fake Bloodstones do appear on sale, but there is one fail-proof way to check the authenticity of the stones and that is to rub the crystal on a piece of porcelain.
A real Bloodstone will leave a streak of color, usually red, on the object, whereas fake stones leave no mark at all.
Types of Bloodstone
Bloodstones can sometimes be found on sale under the following names:
- Heliotrope or Sunstone.
- Blood Jasper. This is actually a variety of red and black Jasper with white markings or veins.
- Oriental Jasper
- Fancy Jasper
You may come across a crystal known as Combination Stone in your search for Bloodstone.
It shares many of the purification and cleansing properties of Bloodstone and is believed to have a balancing effect on the red and white blood cell count.
It is actually a combination of Jasper, Hematite, and Tiger’s Eye.
Bloodstone Birthstone Meaning & History
Bloodstone is the traditional birthstone for the month of March. It is also the natural birthstone for March.
In terms of zodiac signs, Bloodstone is the crystal associated with Aries (March 21 – April 19) Aries is represented by the Ram and its element is fire.
Aries people are often impulsive and dynamic, full of energy and motivation, and eager to learn new things.
Bloodstone palm stones, tumbled stones, beads and jewelry all make perfect gifts for Aries as they sometimes need grounding and calming to get rid of excess energy.
Of the three modalities assigned to the signs of the zodiac, cardinal, mutable, or fixed, Aries is cardinal.
People born under a cardinal sign are known to be reasonable, traditional, and natural-born leaders.
Aries people are often brave and tenacious.
Their sign is ruled by the Roman god of war, so it is no surprise that they show courage and endurance in risky situations.
They are the pioneers of the zodiac and will happily take on new challenges where others may be too afraid to venture.
This makes Bloodstone an ideal gift for Rams, who will often break new ground or step into the unknown quite fearlessly.
Aries, as a fire element, can be passionate, creative, and energetic.
They are often full of optimism and hope and rarely waste time regretting the past or looking back.
They are generous and giving and always eager to help others, just so that they can see the smile on their faces.
As with all signs of the zodiac, Rams have negative traits as well as positive, and with this sign, it often manifests as a volatile temper.
Aries can be prone to sudden rages, and the effects can be alarming, although they do not tend to last. Aries does not harbor grudges.
Bloodstone can help to balance the more extreme manifestations of the Aries personality, such as blind optimism.
When this kind of irrational outlook is coupled with the typical Aries traits of energy, courage, and adventurousness, it can be a dangerous combination.
The influence of Bloodstone, with its calming, grounding energy can help to temper this tendency in some Rams.
The Aries personality can benefit from the patience and good sense imparted by Bloodstone by taking the time to assess risks and possible consequences beforehand.
Bloodstone helps to channel the courage, which is in danger of becoming recklessness, and many Aries people often complain that they always seem to learn their lessons the hard way.
Competitiveness is also a common Aries trait, which is fine when it is healthy and balanced but can result in unfortunate outcomes when seen as a fierce fight to the death.
Rams can be poor sports and their tempers can get the better of them.
On the whole, an Aries partner, whether at work, in love, or in friendship, is a valuable person to have in your life.
They are fun to be with, generous to a fault, and magnanimous in most of their dealings with others.
Bloodstone Treatment
How to Clean and Care for Bloodstone
Bloodstone can take a fair amount of wear and tear, although a direct hit on its surface may well lead to chipping and fractures.
It is easy to clean with warm water and very mild soap. Always rinse it well after cleaning and dry it with a soft cloth.
Bloodstone can be recharged and energetically cleansed by placing it near an Amethyst cluster.
It can also be programmed to help support your manifestation work by tuning in to the natural energies of the stone’s vibration and stating your intentions clearly, in positive language.
Bloodstone is a good choice for students and scholars and anyone who intends to learn new skills or research new topics.
Buyers Guide: Tips & Advice
As with many popular precious and semi-precious stones, there will always be some individuals keen to get you to part with your money for a fake.
So being aware that fakes exist, and what to look out for is a good way to start your research.
Bloodstone Quality Factors
Colour:
As you will see from some of the information given in previous sections, Bloodstone occurs in a variety of color combinations.
And the distinctive red spots or splashes of color and a dark green or green-blue background are the most distinctive.
Specimens with very few red spots are usually cheaper than those with an abundance, and the darker the background color the more expensive the stone is likely to be.
Clarity:
Bloodstone is opaque, or translucent, so you will not find transparent or clear examples of this crystal.
It has its own beauty when polished, and the best specimens will have a soft sheen that changes with alterations in the light.
Cut:
Cabochons and smooth, curved shapes are the most popular cut for this stone.
You will also find smaller examples made into beads for jewelry, and rocks that have been put into a tumbler to produce small, smooth, tumbled stones.
Bloodstone Healing Properties
As its name suggests, Bloodstone is believed to be a blood purifier and powerful healer.
It is said to hold magical and mystical properties, including the ability to influence the weather!
Physical Healing Properties
The ancient Egyptians used Bloodstone to shrink tumors, and there are many claims to its efficacy as a healer of physical conditions.
Bloodstone is an immune stimulator for acute infections and is an energy cleanser for the aura or bio magnetic field that surrounds the human body.
It is believed to stimulate the flow of lymph and the metabolic processes.
It is known as a rejuvenator for tired bodies and minds, revitalizing and reenergizing the entire system.
It is, not surprisingly, associated with the healing of all kinds of disorders of the blood, purifying and detoxifying the liver, spleen, kidneys, intestines, and bladder.
This crystal benefits those organs that are blood rich.
It regulates and balances blood pressure, stimulates blood flow to sites of infection, and aids poor or sluggish circulation.
It is also said to reduce the formation of pus and to support the blood in cases of leukemia.
Mental & Emotional Healing Properties
Bloodstone is a very grounding stone that is often used to realign the lower chakras, bringing stability and a sense of security, especially during uncertain or troubled times.
It helps in grounding Heart energy down through the Solar Plexus, the Sacral, and the Base chakras.
And promotes a stronger connection with the natural world, thereby benefitting mental health and bringing calm to troubled minds.
It is believed to reduce irritability, impatience, and inappropriate aggression.
Mentally, Bloodstone enhances the decision-making process and clears confusion.
It can be a great help if you are mentally exhausted or overwhelmed.
One of the qualities of Bloodstone that has recently been causing a stir in the world of holistic healing is its ability to keep you in the present moment and to collect scattered energies and thoughts.
This property of promoting mindfulness has been shown to be extremely beneficial for many who are suffering from mental health issues.
The impact of the lockdowns in recent years and ensuing isolation has affected many people adversely and mindful practices, including meditation with crystals, can help with this.
Metaphysical Properties
The metaphysical qualities of Bloodstone are both magical and mystical.
In ancient times, this stone was sometimes referred to as an “audible oracle” as some people claimed they could “hear” the guidance it emitted in the form of sounds.
Bloodstone clears negativity from the aura and dispels undesirable influences.
Bloodstone is known as a Seeker Transformer crystal and is a member of the Jasper group of crystals.
All Jaspers are nurturing and supportive, and Bloodstone is no exception.
As a Seeker Transformer crystal, Bloodstone aligns its natural energy with the power of the human mind in seeking out new horizons and exploring new opportunities and capabilities.
It is a fresh start crystal and can be carried or worn as a talisman when you want to learn new skills or to deepen your knowledge and research.
It is the crystal of the wanderer, the teacher, and the scientist.
When you are ready to effect change in your life for the better, Bloodstone can support your learning and encourage you to acquire new, transformative skills that will enrich your emotional and spiritual life.
Spiritual Healing Properties
There are myths and stories attached to Bloodstone that relate to the crucifixion of Christ and the concepts of sacrifice for the greater good.
It is a stone of courage, wisdom, and altruism, said to stimulate the urge towards spiritual consciousness and to help bring one’s spiritual wisdom into everyday life in a grounded and practical way.
It is a stone of mysticism and can bring insights and spiritual intuition that transcends ordinary understanding.
Bloodstone is also known as a “soul” protector.
Because of the dual nature of the colors found in this crystal, it has gained a reputation as a shape shifting stone that acts as a guardian for the body when the soul is engaged in astral travel or shamanic journeying.
Bloodstone has an affinity with the sun, and its alternative name is Sunstone.
In spiritual terms, this aligns the energies of the etheric body with the Creator and also enhances the strength of the masculine or Yang energies of the subtle body.
Bloodstone has a history of being put to use in cultures that revere the ancestral line.
In more modern applications, it is often used in past life regression therapy or to clear negative energies that have arisen through childhood or early life trauma.
How to Use Bloodstone
As Jewellery
Bloodstone is popular in jewelry for all sexes.
It makes a dramatic statement when worn as a chunky ring or cufflinks for a more “masculine” feel but is equally popular when fashioned into a more traditional pendant.
The advantage of wearing Bloodstone is that you can access its nurturing, protective properties at any time during the day.
In Home and Office
Bloodstone is easy to find shaped into eggs, palm stones, and other smooth, tactile artifacts.
You can keep a dish of tumbled Bloodstone rocks by your computer when working, to inspire creativity and promote mental clarity.
You can also hold palm stones or worry beads. During times of agitation or distress to access the soothing, grounding properties of this crystal.
Some specimens are simply beautiful to look at!
In Feng shui, Bloodstone is categorized as a Wood energy crystal, representing growth, expansion, new beginnings, and nourishment.
It enhances vitality and ushers in an abundance of all the things we need in order to grow and thrive, both physically and emotionally.
It can be used in the area of the house used for eating, especially when harmony needs to be encouraged around the dining table.
Bloodstone placed in the Wealth and Prosperity area of the home, which is the southeast corner, encourages a flow of money, good fortune, and good luck into the home.
Final Thoughts & Conclusion
The ancient roots of the myths around Bloodstone make it a valuable reminder of our ancestral history, no matter what faith, creed, or society we currently live in.
It carries with it an abundance of beneficial energies that we can put to use in many areas of our lives.
It is both nurturing and strengthening and can act as a prompt to us when we feel overwhelmed, to trust that we have all the resources and knowledge that we need in order to thrive at any given time in our lives.
Talismans carved from Bloodstone offer protection from negative influences, and that includes the negative thoughts we sometimes have about ourselves and our abilities.
References
Britannica | Gem Society | Geology | Mindat | Minerals | Wikipedia
