Bloodstone by Sue Perryman

Bloodstone is a dark green crystal with red splotches of iron oxide, it is part of the chalcedony quartz family and is also known as Heliotrope which is a combination of two Greek words - helios meaning 'Sun' and tropos meaning 'to turn' due to the fact that in ancient times the polished stones were described as a reflection of the Sun. It is found in India, Australia, Brazil, China and the US.

In the middle ages the red spots were believed to have been formed when spots of Christ's blood fell and stained green jasper at the foot of the cross during crucifixion. Christian's would carve scenes of the crucifixion and images of martyrs onto the stone which led to it being called the ‘Martyr’s stone'.

In ancient times bloodstone was believed to assist in casting spells, banishing evil and negativity and have the power to predict extreme meteorological events such as storms.

Ancient Greeks and Romans carried and wore bloodstone during sport competitions to give them endurance and secure the favour of those in power. The Babylonians carried it to overcome enemies and the Egyptians to open doors and break bonds.

A stone of the Sun, when dipped in water bloodstone was believed by many cultures to heal any wound or blood disorder.

As its name suggests, bloodstone is a powerful blood purifier and is said to stimulate the endocrine system and detox the liver. It is an excellent stone for women as it balances female hormones, relieving the symptoms of PMS and menopausal disorders and providing strength and stamina during childbirth.

Bloodstone can assist with strengthening self-confidence and intuition. It can increase vitality and be used for protection from negative energies, it also provides emotional support and courage in the face of adversity.

Meditating with bloodstone can enhance your connection to the divine, ancestors and guides.

Bloodstone can aid those who have trouble making their mind up become more decisive and help you to see the correct course of action.

This stone can be used to purify and strengthen the root and heart chakras, it helps you to remain grounded and keep you in the moment; it can calm the mind in a crisis and provide strength and support to anyone suffering from bullying, emotionally or physically. Sew a small tumble stone into the lining of a bullied child's coat or pop one in their school bag.

Keep bloodstone beside your bed or in a dream pillow to stimulate dreaming, don't forget to keep a journal and pen close by to record your dreams on waking Wink

Carry or wear bloodstone during exercise or sport to increase your endurance and stamina.

Add a bloodstone to prosperity and money spells to attract wealth.

Cleanse and charge bloodstone in running water or sunlight

Magical properties: Purifying, healing, strength, courage, prosperity, protection, stamina, dreams

Zodiac: Aries

Planet: Mars

Birthstone: Traditional and ancient stone for March, not a modern birthstone for any month

Chakras: Heart & Root

Sources:

The Crystal Bible - Judy Hall

The New Crystal Bible - Cassandra Eason

The Book of Stones - Robert Simmons & Naisha Ahsian

Shimmerlings.com

Image - Wikipedia