Bloodstone Crystal: Properties, Benefits & Meanings
Bloodstone Overview
Bloodstone crystal is the name given to a form of a special type of chalcedony quartz that contains iron oxide. Specifically, it is a type of Jasper stone having a deep green coloration and red inclusions.
The stone is formed deep inside the Earth and has been used by people throughout history for various purposes.
This guide covers everything about this mineral, its properties, meaning, and uses.
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Bloodstone Pronunciation And Etymology
Bloodstone is a cryptocrystalline form of silica (Chalcedony). The Greeks called it Bloodstone due to the speckled red inclusions on its surface that give the illusion of blood spots. It is pronounced, “bluhd-stown.”
Bloodstone is also known as heliotrope. The word heliotrope comes from the Greek words “helios” and “tropos,” meaning “sun” and “to turn,” respectively.
The name was given because it has a distinct reddish color that is said to resemble the reflection of the setting sun in the water. Heliotrope is pronounced, “hee-lee-uh-trowp.”
Bloodstone Crystal Appearance
Bloodstone is a dark green stone speckled with red spots. It is a rare variety of Jasper.
A dull vitreous finish makes Bloodstone great for use as a cabochon.
This stone is opaque, meaning light does not pass through it.
The red spots in the Bloodstone are hematite impurities. The name “bloodstone” refers to the bright red coloration of the spots on this gemstone and their resemblance to bloodstains.
Bloodstone Physical Properties
The physical properties of Bloodstone are:
| Mineral Group | Quartz |
| Formula | SiO2 |
| Chemical name | Silicon dioxide |
| Color | Many |
| Hardness (Mohs scale) | 6.5 – 7 |
| Refractive Index | 1.53 – 1.54 |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Specific Gravity | 2.61 |
| Transparency | Opaque |
Bloodstone Value
Bloodstones can be valuable, depending on several factors. Let’s take a look at each of these factors:
- Size: Bloodstone crystals come in a variety of sizes. The larger the crystal, the more valuable it may be (all things being equal).
- Weight: Bloodstone crystals also vary in weight, affecting their value. Higher weighted gems are significantly more expensive than lighter ones.
- Color: Bloodstone has a beautiful dark green color with red spots scattered throughout it. Specimen having a large area of green coloration are considered more desirable. The red inclusions play a role in determining its value as well.
- Pattern: Bloodstones with scattered inclusions are not as pricey as ones with a denser range of inclusions. However, if the inclusions are too high, it can also bring down the value.
- Cut: Some types of professional cuts are considered harder to execute than others, which may increase the end product’s price.
A typical bloodstone crystal costs between $4-10 per carat. However, some unique pieces can go for a much higher price.
Where Can You Find Bloodstone?
Bloodstone is a type of Jasper and Chalcedony. It can be found at the following locations throughout the world:
Bloodstone Chakra and Birthstone
Bloodstone is a birthstone for March and is a chakra stone associated with the lower chakras. It has a special connection to the root chakra.
Bloodstone helps bring your root chakra back into harmony. When this chakra is out of balance, the affected person feels disoriented and lost. Connections start to feel fragile, and the patient begins to function out of fear.
Using gemstones like a bloodstone crystal is essential to bring the disharmonious chakra back into its natural state. Once the chakra is stable again, the person feels a profound connection to Earth, feels safe, and starts to move with the flow of things rather than worry about every little detail.
Bloodstone Meaning And Uses
Historical use
- Bloodstone is called “the stone of Babylon” by Albertus Magnus, owing to its prevalence at that time.
- Pliny The Elder mentions that it was used for magical invisibility, while Demigeron commented on its ability to manipulate the weather (he claims it can produce rain).
- Christians traditionally believe that the stone was speckled red by the blood of Jesus during his crucifixion.
Medical Use
- Ancient Roman soldiers believed that Bloodstone Crystal stopped bleeding. They carried it with them to battle to prevent wounds from becoming fatal. Scientifically, although not proved, this may have merit as the iron oxide in the stone acts as a powerful contracting agent, closing the wound.
- In some areas, the Bloodstone crystal is used to treat blood-related diseases. They are said to “lock” the blood flow when held to the nose.
- Some Alternate medicine practitioners recommend using it to stave off fevers and cure headaches.
- In some communities, women hang a Bloodstone crystal from their arms during childbirth to prevent miscarriages.
Magical Use
- Due to its association with blood, some athletes wear Bloodstone Crystal pendants and rings to enhance their performance, increase their physical capabilities, and win competitions.
- In the middle ages, farmers used it as a talisman to get a bountiful harvest as its green hue lent it the power of money.
- Magicians used Bloodstone talismans engraved with the shape of a bat to perform magic rituals and increase the efficacy of spells in the 13th century.
- Some people believe that if the Bloodstone crystal is kept inside a cash register, it will draw money and attract wealth.
How To Take Care Of Bloodstone Jewelry
Bloodstone jewelry can be a hassle to take care of. However, if you don’t give it the attention it needs, it will deteriorate and lose its value. You can follow these easy steps to keep your jewelry as good as new:
- Clean bloodstone jewelry by soaking it in soap and warm water for a few hours or overnight.
- Then, rinse well and gently scrub with a soft microfiber cloth. If any dirt remains, use a soft toothbrush to remove it.
- Do not use chemicals stronger than soap or harsh cleaners on your bloodstone jewelry, as this will damage the piece’s natural properties.
- Remember to purify your precious stones regularly to retain their efficacy. Burn sage over the jewel or keep it near an agate gem to remove any negative energy accumulating around the stone.
- Afterward, recharge your Bloodstone by placing it under the full moon’s light.
- Since Bloodstone is connected to the root chakra, you can also recharge Bloodstone jewelry by burying it in the soil so that its energy is connected with Mother Earth’s energy.
FAQ
Is Bloodstone heat-treated?
Usually, Bloodstone is not heat-treated. However, it goes through a long process of polishing and cutting to bring out its beauty, increasing its price. Raw Bloodstone is less expensive than polished bloodstone.
What zodiac is bloodstone?
Bloodstone crystal is associated with the Aries Zodiac. It is also the birthstone of March.
What is Bloodstone suitable for Magically?
Bloodstone is associated with the root chakra and is of the fire element. It is helpful for magical protection, magical invisibility, and manipulating the weather, among other things.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Bloodstone Crystal?
Bloodstone is said to stop bleeding, cure blood diseases, and enhance physical attributes. A bloodstone crystal is also said to prevent miscarriage.
What Works Well With Bloodstone Crystal?
Bloodstone works quite well in conjunction with Agate. Agate connects to the upper chakras and elevates a person, while Bloodstone is connected to the lower chakras which grounds them.
These opposing forces create harmony and balance within the body and enhance each others effects.
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