Read all about Bloodstone and different kinds of rocks and minerals here at the Stone Goddess.

Bloodstone is a silicon dioxide mineral, one of a group of microcrystalline quartz that includes chalcedony, jasper, agates and other stones. It is the dark green chalcedony or jasper with red spots, although the red may not always be present. The red is caused by iron oxide inclusions, while the green is chlorite, an iron precipitate. It is formed near the earth's surface, at low temperatures, and occurs in rock cavities as mammillary or botryoidal forms, or crusts.

Bloodstone, or "Blood Jasper" as it was called in medieval times, has been used for centuries to cure various health problems associated with the blood, the liver or kidneys. The cool, wet stone was applied to a wound to help stop blood flow. It was worn by soldiers as amulets for courage and strength, and to protect against wounds in battle. The stone was also known as "Matyr's Stone", and was thought to have formed when drops of Christ's blood fell upon green jasper lying at the foot of the cross. It represented Christ's passion and sacrifice, and was thought to have special healing powers. Carvings of the Crucifixion or the head of Christ were made of this stone in the Middle Ages.

In Ancient Babylon, the Bloodstone was used for seals and amulets. Seals and rings of the stone have been worn for centuries, for courage and strength and protection. It also was thought to bring success in legal or business matters, and to attract good health, wealth and luck. In Medieval Europe the stone was called "Heliotrope", from an old belief that, when placed in water, it could turn the sun red. Bloodstone was also used by the native peoples of Mexico and Central America, where it was carved into heart shapes and used for problems with the blood or internal organs.

Bloodstone is found in the U.S., China, Russia and Australia, but the main ancient and modern source is the Deccan Plateau of India. The gem makes attractive beads and cabochons for jewelry, and is carved into animals, spheres, eggs, and other objects.

Metaphysical Properties: Bloodstone is a gem for courage and strength. It is a stone for the Heart, to purify the blood and the emotions and to enhance stability during times of chaos before transformation. It encourages self-confidence, and the use of caution. It eases and heals anger, impatience and aggression, and helps fend off obstacles in one's life. It allows for honesty and integrity, as we speak from the heart, and encourages us to remember our roots and stay true to ourselves on our journey. It is an earthling or grounding stone, and helps keep our hearts in tune with the earth's heartbeat, or electromagnetic field. It is helpful during shifts of frequency, which may cause chaos. It allows access to our ancient ancestors, our "blood lines", and helps gain valuable knowledge from these traditions. It is a protective stone, and attracts good health and fortune. It may also be used to affirm a commitment to work to improve one’s health, and a desire for long life. It is used for toxin release and balances blood elements, to help with problems of blood and internal organs and circulation. It may be an aid for menstrual problems, help prevent miscarriage and is an aid during childbirth. It helps align the lower Chakras with the heart.

Chakras: Heart, Root and Spleen.