Bloodstone: Properties, Uses and Crystal Healing

Are you curious about bloodstone and its fascinating properties? Whether you're interested in crystal healing, gemology, or just love learning about different stones, this guide is for you. We'll cover everything you need to know about bloodstone, from its properties and uses to its meaning and significance in crystal healing.

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Bloodstone, also known as heliotrope, is a dark green variety of chalcedony, a type of quartz, flecked with red spots of iron oxide. These red spots resemble drops of blood, giving the stone its name.

The typical appearance of a bloodstone is a deep green gemstone with distinctive red speckles. These red markings can vary in size and distribution, making each bloodstone unique. The combination of green and red makes it a visually striking gem, often used in jewellery and decorative items.

Bloodstone has been revered throughout history for its supposed mystical and healing properties. It was known in ancient times as the "martyr's stone" because of the belief that it could cause wounds to heal and stop bleeding.

One of the most famous legends about bloodstone is its association with the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. According to the myth, bloodstone was formed when drops of Christ’s blood fell onto the green earth, turning it into the stone we know today. This story contributes to the stone's reputation for healing and protection.

Bloodstone is valued for its metaphysical properties, from healing to grounding energies:

Bloodstone is best known for its physical and emotional healing properties. It’s believed to boost the immune system and purify the blood, making it a popular choice for those looking to improve their physical health. Many crystal healers use bloodstone to detoxify and strengthen the body, promoting overall wellness. It's often said to aid in the healing of infections, inflammation, and anaemia by improving circulation and providing a steady flow of healing energy.

Many people wear bloodstone as a protective amulet. It’s thought to guard against threats and negative energies, creating a shield around the wearer. This protective quality makes it a popular choice for people who feel vulnerable to emotional or physical harm. Whether carried in a pocket or worn as jewellery, bloodstone's protective energy is believed to keep harmful influences at bay and provide a sense of safety and security.

Bloodstone is often associated with courage and strength. It’s said to imbue the wearer with the bravery needed to face challenges and overcome obstacles. This property makes it a powerful tool for those going through difficult times or needing an extra boost of confidence. By wearing or carrying bloodstone, you can feel more empowered and capable of handling whatever comes your way, facing your fears with renewed strength.

Grounding is another significant property of bloodstone. It is associated with stabilising and centring energies, helping you stay grounded in the present moment. This grounding effect can be particularly beneficial for those who feel anxious or overwhelmed. By connecting with the stabilising energy of bloodstone, you can find balance and focus, making it easier to manage stress and maintain a calm and centred state of mind.

Beyond its physical and emotional benefits, bloodstone is believed to offer several spiritual advantages.

One of the key spiritual benefits of bloodstone is its ability to promote emotional balance. It helps calm the mind, reducing irritability and fostering a sense of peace. For those who struggle with emotional turmoil or anxiety, bloodstone can provide a soothing influence, helping to stabilise emotions and promote a more harmonious state of being.

Bloodstone is said to enhance intuition and spiritual awareness, making it an excellent tool for meditation and mindfulness practices. By attuning to the energy of bloodstone, you can deepen your connection to your higher self and the spiritual realm. This heightened awareness can lead to greater insight, clarity, and a stronger sense of purpose.

Bloodstone is also used for cleansing and purifying energy. It’s believed to remove negative influences and promote a flow of positive energy. This property makes it a popular choice for those looking to clear their space or personal energy field of unwanted negativity. By using bloodstone, you can create a more vibrant and positive environment, free from the clutter of negative energies.

To harness the healing properties of bloodstone, it can be used in several ways:

To maximise the benefits of your bloodstone, it is important to cleanse, charge, and activate it regularly. This ensures that the stone remains energetically vibrant and effective.

Cleansing your bloodstone removes any negative or stagnant energy it may have absorbed. One effective method is to rinse your bloodstone under running water for a few minutes; natural water sources like a stream or river are ideal, but tap water works well too. Just ensure the water is not too harsh and dry the stone thoroughly afterwards. 

Another method is to soak your bloodstone in a bowl of salt water for a few hours, using sea salt or Himalayan salt, and then rinsing the stone with fresh water to remove any salt residue. Smudging with sage, palo santo, or incense is also effective; simply pass the stone through the smoke several times, ensuring it is fully enveloped by the cleansing smoke. 

Charging your bloodstone revitalises its energy, making it more potent. Placing your bloodstone in direct sunlight for a few hours can energise the stone, though it's important not to leave it out too long as prolonged exposure can cause fading. 

Alternatively, leaving your bloodstone under the moonlight overnight is especially powerful during a full moon, as the moon’s energy is at its peak. You can also bury your bloodstone in the soil for a few hours or overnight to recharge it with the Earth’s natural energy. Another method is to place your bloodstone on a larger crystal cluster, such as quartz or amethyst, for a few hours, as these clusters can amplify the stone’s energy.

Activating your bloodstone aligns it with your personal energy and intentions. To do this, hold your bloodstone in your hands, close your eyes, and focus on your breath while setting a clear intention for what you want the stone to help you with. Visualise your intention being absorbed into the stone. 

During meditation, hold your bloodstone and visualise a bright light surrounding it, imagining this light infusing the stone with your desired energy and purpose. Speaking affirmations related to your goals and intentions while holding the bloodstone can also help; repeating these affirmations programs the stone with your specific desires. Additionally, using Reiki or other energy healing techniques can infuse the bloodstone with positive energy; direct the flow of energy into the stone, focusing on your intention.

Here are some fun facts about the Bloodstone Crystal:

Bloodstone is commonly associated with the Root Chakra and Heart Chakra. The Root Chakra connection helps with grounding and stability, while the Heart Chakra connection supports emotional healing and balance.

Bloodstone can go in water. However, it's best to avoid harsh chemicals or prolonged exposure to moisture, which can damage the stone's surface.

A real bloodstone will have a deep green colour with distinctive red spots. It should feel cool to the touch and have a smooth, glossy surface. If in doubt, consult with a reputable gemologist or purchase from a trusted source.

Read more about how to tell if a crystal is real.

Bloodstone is especially beneficial for those born under the zodiac signs of Aries and Pisces. It aligns well with the assertive and courageous nature of Aries, while it helps Pisces with grounding and emotional balance.

The Bible does not specifically mention bloodstone. However, its association with the crucifixion of Jesus Christ in legend adds a layer of spiritual significance for some believers.

Bloodstone is not traditionally known for attracting money. However, its grounding and protective properties can help create a stable environment conducive to financial well-being.

People who are sensitive to energy shifts or experience heightened anxiety may want to use bloodstone cautiously, as its powerful energy can sometimes be overwhelming.

If you're drawn to the healing and spiritual qualities of Bloodstone and want to deepen your understanding of how these crystals can enhance your life, consider exploring the Crystal Healing Diploma Course offered by Centre of Excellence. For a special price of £29, this course provides a guide to harnessing the power of many types of crystals, including quartz.