Onto the next letter for our A-Z of gemstones and this week we are looking at Bloodstones. A lesser known birthstone for March, no surprise as March is named after Mars (the God of War) and these curious stones are called as such due to their markings which look like specks of blood.
A bloodstone consists of dark green jasper with spots or larger areas of red which are iron oxide inclusions. Legend says that bloodstone was formed when drops of Jesus’ blood fell and stained the jasper at the foot of the cross. Because of this many medieval christians believed the bloodstone to have power and would carve scenes of the cruxifixction of martyrs into the stone; this is how the stone got it’s name ‘The Martyr’s Stone’. Perhaps the most famous example of this is the famous bloodstone that’s found in the Louvre Museum. It is carved with the seal of the German Emperor Rudolf II.
Bloodstone carved with the
German Emperor Rudolf II in the Lourve Musuem
Bloodstone is found all across the world, including India, Brazil, China, Australia, Germany, Russia and even Scotland. Unfortunately there are many fake bloodstones on the market now but the foolproof way to tell if the stone is real is if you rub it onto porcelain and the blood red scars appear - you’ve got a genuine bloodstone.
Many believe that the stone can cure many aliments, unsurprisingly to do with blood. It is said to stop nosebleeds, cure anaemia and blood disorders as well as helping with the circulation of blood. The stones were pulverised and mixed with egg whites and honey before being applied to the skin. In India powered bloodstone was not only used to treat illnesses but also as an aphrodisiac. It is said to have the power to detoxify and strengthen the immune and lymphatic systems. It also said to have the power of strengthening kidneys, bone marrow, heart and liver functions. In the medieval times the stone was used to remove poison from venomous snake bites.
Bloodstone is said to be the stone of justice and courage. In ancient times warriors would carry the stone into battle as an amulet to protect them and if hurt, help with the bleeding from their wounds. The stone is also believed to have the power to make vague thoughts clear, increase self esteem, intuition and creativity. It enhances decision making, induces dreams, calms anxiety, drives away negativity energy, fights evil, prevents jealousy, boosts spirits, eases a broken heart and brings good luck. So all in all, bloodstones do a lot!
Bloodstone is a polycrystalline material and is fairly tough. Rating a 6-7 on the Mohs scale the stone is quite resistant to scratches but still be careful when wearing your stone. When cleaning use a soft cloth or brush with warm soapy water. If you’re lucky enough to own a bloodstone then we hope all of the above is true and you notice a different when wearing your good luck charm!