Bloodstone – Atlantis Institute Crystals Encyclopedia
Origin
Heliotrope (Bloodstone, Jasper) derives its name from the Greek word “Helios” meaning "to turn" conveying the various ancient notions about the manner in which the mineral reflects light. It has been used in carved signet rings for the traditional birthstone for March.
All crystals belong to a different group according to the basis of the relationships of their axes. There are seven systems and 32 classes of symmetry. It was also believed that by touching the stone it could stop bleeding.
History
Legend denotes that the bloodstone was formed from the blood of Christ dripping on the green earth and solidifying. It was thought to bring change and use as an amulet to protect against the evil eye. It is a symbol of justice. Medieval Christians used bloodstone to carve scenes of the crucifixion and martyrs. A beautiful example is the seal of the German Emperor Rudolf II which can be seen in Louvre in Paris. Finely pulverised bloodstone is still used as a medicine and aphrodisiac in India.
Specification
Bloodstone can be found in Brazil, India, China, Australia and the United States.
Varieties
Heliotrope is the mineral most commonly known as bloodstone. It is a form of chalcedony which is cryptocrystalline mixture of quartz meaning it cannot be distinguished by the naked eye as the crystals are too small. It is monoclinic polymorph morganite. Bloodstone commonly appears in green chalcedony with red inclusions of iron oxide or red jasper. The inclusions cans sometimes be yellow or plasma. Heliotrope is transparent with red in it while plasma is deep green, opaque with little or no red inclusions. It appears glassy to waxy with an inconsistent colour of green derived from chlorite particles while the red inclusions are caused by iron oxide.
A good quality of bloodstone is one which has solid dark green colour and visible veins of red. The most common shapes bloodstone occurs in are cabochon, cushion cut, emerald cut, octagonal, oval and round.
Esoteric Attributes
Crystals by their very nature are able to receive and focus energy in different ways. Their molecular structure enables them to be used to amplify and convert energy and hence crystals have been used for centuries to aid healing and transmute energy both in the metaphysical and physical world.
Because each crystal family has different formational backgrounds, each also has different vibrtional frequencies that can be harnesed and used for specific purposes. Each therefore have specific qualities that can be used to help a person heal on the many different levels of their being.
The following is a list of healing attributes associated with Bloodstone crystals.
Physical - Improves physical strength, health and well-being. Bloodstone is used to protect the immune system .it assists with blood and energy circulation in the body and helps remove blocks. Bloodstone fortifies the lymph and bladder as prevents flu, colds, infections, inflammation and pus formation. It also helps fortify the liver, spleen and intestine.
Emotional - Enhances harmony and calms anxiety. Promotes love for family and enhances wealth by improving the business. Aids setting boundaries and helps maintain control. This Crystal helps the user to feel stronger sense of determination and helps to regain personal power.
Mental - It helps build to clear the mind allowing clarity where bodily desires are concerned. Bloodstone creates a bridge between the raw primal sexual urges and The Heart. The vibrations of Bloodstone help to dissipate confusion and become more peaceful and serene.
Crystal Chart
Crystal: Bloodstone
Mineral : Chalcedony
Geometric Form : Monoclinic
Formation : Secondary
Family: Quartz
Birthstone: Pisces
Appearance: Green with Red inclusions
Aura: Bringing Harmony and Balance to the Auric Field and Grounding.
Colour: Green with Red spots
Chakra: Heart Chakra and Root Chakra
References and resources:
Michael Gienger, Healing Crystals, Earthdancer Books, 2009
The Columbia Encyclopedia, Crystal, 6th ed. 2014
World of Earth Science, Quartz, 2003
Encyclopedia of Occultism and Parapsychology, Crystal Healing, 2001
http://gemstone-dictionary.com/birthstones-by-month.php
New Oxford American Dictionary
Become a Certified Crystal Therapist
Have a look at some Crystal VIDEOS
See our range of Crystals in our Online Stone