The martyr's gem (Bloodstone)

The martyr's gem

bloodstone

Bloodstone, green jasper dotted with bright red spots of iron oxide, was treasured in ancient times and served for a long time as the birthstone for March. This attractive chalcedony quartz is also known as heliotrope because in ancient times polished stones were described as reflecting the sun: perhaps the appearance of the gem reminded the ancients of the red setting sun, mirrored in the ocean.

Medieval Christians often used bloodstone to carve scenes of the crucifixion and martyrs, for which reason it was also dubbed the martyr's stone. According to the legend about the origin of bloodstone, it was first formed when drops of Christ's blood fell and stained some jasper at the foot of the cross. A beautiful example of carved bloodstone with the seal of the German Emperor Rudolf II can be seen at the Louvre in Paris.

Even today, finely pulverised bloodstone is used as a medicine and aphrodisiac in India. Perhaps that explains why it is now rather difficult to find fine specimens of bloodstone on the market. Bloodstone is mined in India, Australia, and the United States.organs of the body.  Seraphinite also can enhance weight loss and the detoxification process. Use Seraphinite when warding off the chills or for fighting an infection.

Bloodstone is a strong grounding and protecting stone and is believed to promote love and understanding between friends, resulting in the building of solid friendships.

Placing Bloodstone in a bowl of water beside the bed is said to ensure peaceful sleep.

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The gem requires some care to prevent it from being scratched, cracked, or broken. In storing jewelry made from this stone, it should be placed alone into a jewelry box or pouched within velvet or cloth before mixing it with other pieces.

Cleaning bloodstone is fairly simple. It can be wiped clean easily with a soft, damp cloth. Do not, however, use harsh jewelry cleaning chemicals on the gem or immerse it into an ultrasonic cleaner. Excessive liquid can remove the polish from the stone.

Bloodstone should be protected from any extreme temperatures like overheating or freezing. These can crack the stone and cause it to lose its natural luster.

Bloodstone has more healing properties attached to it than just about any other gemstone. In fact, pulverized versions of the gem are still used as medicine in India. The stone is also believed to help with ailments of the stomach and bowel. Others say it purifies the blood and organs as well as ensures proper blood circulation.

In ancient Greece and Rome, many believed that the gem stopped any type of hemorrhage immediately upon applying the gem over the wound. It was also used as a talisman to protect against nosebleeds and other types of blood disorders and problems.

Many claim that bloodstone strengthens the immune system, thereby ensuring the body's energy and purity for fighting off infections. Additionally, it facilitates the elimination of toxins within the body and ensures its ability to enhance the body's absorption of vitamins and nutrients.

Mystics and psychics consider bloodstone to be magical in nature. They attribute a great deal of power to this gem. Many believe that is protects against the evil eye and opens any type of energy blockage. In that respect, the gem is helpful in warding off ailments like a cold, the flu, and allergies.

To wear bloodstone for medicinal purposes, it must have direct contact with the skin. Therefore, it is best to wear the stone in necklace or pendant format.

Bloodstone also has metaphysical properties. It is said to protect the wearer from his or her own dangerous desires as well as provide or strengthen courage.

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