Bloodstone Healing Properties and Meanings

What is Bloodstone?

Bloodstone is a dark green or brownish-green gemstone with small red spots or “blobs” of iron oxide. It is also known as heliotrope, a name derived from the ancient Greek words “helios” meaning sun and “trepein” meaning to turn. The name bloodstone comes from the red spots on the stone, which look like drops of blood.
Bloodstone is a variety of chalcedony. It is typically found in India, Brazil, Australia, and the United States.

History of Bloodstone

The history of bloodstone can be traced back to ancient times. It was highly valued by the Babylonians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, who used it for jewelry, signet rings, and decorative objects. In ancient Greece, it was believed to have been created from the blood of Christ and was therefore called “heliotrope,” meaning “sun turner.” This name may have referred to the belief that the stone could turn the sun red when it was placed in water.

In medieval Europe, bloodstone was believed to have magical and medicinal properties, and was used in various remedies to cure diseases and stop bleeding. It was also believed to have the power to detect poison, and was sometimes carried by royalty and nobility as a protective amulet.

During the Renaissance, bloodstone was often used in art and was especially popular in the engraving of cameos and intaglios. The red spots on the stone were often used to depict drops of blood, adding to the stone’s symbolic significance.

Today, bloodstone is still used in jewelry and is believed by some to have healing and protective properties. It remains a popular gemstone among those interested in alternative or metaphysical healing practices.

Physical Properties of Bloodstone

Property	Value
Mineral	Chalcedony (cryptocrystalline variety of quartz) with inclusions of green or red minerals
Color	Green with red spots or veins
Hardness	6.5 – 7 on the Mohs scale
Density	2.6 – 2.7 g/cm3
Cleavage	None
Fracture	Conchoidal, brittle
Luster	Vitreous to dull
Transparency	Translucent to opaque
Refractive index	1.530 – 1.540
Birefringence	None
Fluorescence	None

Note: The values listed are approximate and may vary depending on the specific sample of Bloodstone.

Bloodstone Meaning

The name heliotrope, is derived from the Greek words “helios” meaning sun, and “trepein” meaning to turn, because ancient Greeks believed that when bloodstone was placed in water facing the sun, it would turn the reflection of the sun red.

In many cultures, bloodstone is considered a powerful healing stone that can help to purify the blood and detoxify the body. It is also believed to provide protection against negative energies and promote courage and strength. Some people also use bloodstone to enhance their creativity and intuition, and to promote feelings of self-confidence and self-worth.

Bloodstone has been used for centuries as a talisman or amulet, and has been associated with various mythological and religious traditions. In Christian tradition, for example, bloodstone was believed to have been formed from the blood of Christ dripping onto the ground during the crucifixion, and was therefore considered a symbol of martyrdom and sacrifice.

Bloodstone Healing Properties

Bloodstone is believed to have various healing properties, including:

1. Purifying the blood: Bloodstone is said to help purify the blood, remove toxins, and support the immune system.
2. Boosting energy and stamina: Bloodstone is believed to increase energy levels and stamina, making it a popular stone for athletes or those who need extra physical endurance.
3. Enhancing mental clarity: Bloodstone is said to improve mental clarity, enhance decision-making abilities, and increase concentration and focus.
4. Promoting emotional balance: Bloodstone is believed to help reduce stress and anxiety, promote feelings of calm and serenity, and encourage emotional balance and stability.
5. Supporting spiritual growth: Bloodstone is said to help connect the wearer to their spiritual side, enhance intuition and psychic abilities, and promote spiritual growth and enlightenment.

Bloodstone is often used in meditation or energy healing practices, placed on various parts of the body to promote healing and balance, or worn as jewelry to keep its healing properties close to the body. However, it’s important to note that the healing properties of bloodstone are based on folklore and belief, and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice or treatment.

Care for Bloodstone

Bloodstone is a relatively hard stone, but it can be prone to chipping or cracking if it is exposed to rough handling or sudden changes in temperature. To care for bloodstone, follow these tips:

Clean with a soft cloth: Bloodstone can be easily scratched by harder materials, so avoid using abrasive cleaners or brushes. Instead, clean it with a soft, lint-free cloth.

Avoid exposure to chemicals: Bloodstone can be damaged by exposure to harsh chemicals such as bleach, acids, or ammonia. Avoid wearing bloodstone jewelry when cleaning with chemicals or swimming in chlorinated pools.

Store properly: Store bloodstone separately from other jewelry in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box to prevent scratches or damage.

Avoid extreme temperatures: Bloodstone should be kept away from sudden changes in temperature, such as extreme heat or cold, which can cause cracks or fractures.

Recharge the energy: Some believe that bloodstone can lose its energy over time and should be recharged periodically by placing it in the sun or under the light of a full moon.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your bloodstone looking beautiful and in good condition for years to come.