Bloodstone...

Since we have started into the month of October and can see All Hallows in the distance, I picked a stone for this post that has a name that fits the spirit of the coming season:  Bloodstone.

No, not THAT blood stone, the GEM stone Bloodstone.  (Above is a still from the Full Moon Productions film 'Bloodstone: Subspecies II'; it's the second film of a trilogy, and if you are like me and dig cheesy films, they are definitely for you.)

(Bloodstone) 

A birthstone for March, Bloodstone is dark green with red spots. A form of Chalcedony, it is an unusual variety of quarts created in rock formation rather than in crystal points.  It also goes by the name Heliotrope.  However, in ancient times there was a bit of disagreement among ancient writers as to whether Bloodstone and Heliotrope were indeed the same stone.  Some said there is no difference, and that the stone was named Heliotrope because, when put in water, it presented a red reflection that resembled the image of the sun.  The other camp maintained that there is a difference because Heliotrope is a translucent green Chalcedony with crimson spots, and Bloodstone is green Jasper flecked with red.  I don't know if there was any outcome to that argument back then, but these days the stone called Bloodstone is also known as the stone Heliotrope.

(Left: rough Bloodstone; Right: Bloodstone and Jasper earrings)

Bloodstone is mined, and can be found in Australia, Brazil, China, India, and the US, India being the main source for the stone.  (In India, Bloodstone is said to actually be finely pulverized and administered as both medicine and an aphrodisiac.)  It is a popular stone for jewelry making, and is very affordable.

(Bloodstone beaded rosary)

There is a legend surrounding Bloodstone that dates back to the Middle Ages.  It was believed the stone has special powers as the spots were believed to be the blood of Christ.  The legend states that the stone was created when Christ's blood dripped on the green of the earth at the foot of the cross, it solidified thus creating the stone.  It was given the name "Martyr's Stone", and was used by sculptors when making representations of Crucifixions and martyrdom.

In ancient days, it was believed to aid in overcoming enemies, opening locked doors, and breaking down barriers.  Bloodstone was carried by soldiers to avoid being wounded, and it came to be known as the stone of courage.  Also, women wore the stone to ensure a safe pregnancy and easy birthing.

There are a number of other properties Bloodstone is said to have.  With just a touch it is said to stop hemorrhages, especially nosebleeds.  Bloodstone strengthens the blood, and the circulatory system.  It relieves stomach pain.

Need to align your energy centers?  Bloodstone is your stone.  It can be used to improve the circulation of energy through the body, and remove energy blocks.  To increase the flow of life energy in your home, place several pieces of Bloodstone throughout.  It is said to bring success in business, and attract money.  Keep a stone in your wallet for good luck, to attract money, and for overall good health.

(Left: Bloodstone Runes; Right: Bloodstone dowsing pendulum)

Use it to help facilitate communications with the spirit world.  Engraved with a bat, Bloodstone can be used as a talisman to enhance the effectiveness of spells and rituals.

(Left: Heart Chakra symbol; Right: Root Chakra symbol)

Meditating with Bloodstone connects the Heart Chakra with Root Chakra energies.  This is an advisable thing to do before starting any new venture.  Acting primarily with the Root Chakra, Bloodstone helps with decision making and unselfishness.  It can help improve talents and creativity.  The stone aids in purifying the blood, and can balance blood flow throughout the body.  It also helps with failing eye sight.