Bloodstone

Bloodstone is typically non-toxic unless it's in powder form. Long-term exposure to finely ground powder may lead to silicosis. Therefore, when cutting or polishing bloodstone, be sure to wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling its dust.

Bloodstone showcases excellent toughness due to its cryptocrystalline structure and lack of cleavage planes, providing resistance against breakage and making it suitable for daily use.

Bloodstone demonstrates resilience under most everyday conditions. It maintains integrity when exposed to water, sunlight, and dryness. While it should avoid heat and harsh chemicals, these are less common exposures in daily use.

Bloodstone is a quartz mineral with a rich history dating back to the first century, where it is mentioned in the writings of Pliny the elder. This mineral has been used as a gemstone for most of recorded history, formed into jewelry, seals, and small statues.

Many ancient cultures prized bloodstone as a magical stone. The Babylonians and Egyptians believed that bloodstone can give them strength or make them invisible. In ancient Greece, it was believed that this stone could change the weather. According to Christian traditions, the red spots in the bloodstone are a symbol of Christ's blood.

It has been found in Western Australia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Italy, Nova Scotia, and numerous locations in the United States. There are also occurrences of bloodstone on the Isle of Rum, in Scotland.

The mineral aggregate heliotrope (from Greek ἥλιος, hḗlios “Sun”, τρέπειν, trépein “to turn”), also known as bloodstone, is a cryptocrystalline mixture of quartz that occurs mostly as jasper (opaque) or sometimes as chalcedony (translucent). The "classic" bloodstone is opaque green jasper with red inclusions of hematite. The red inclusions may resemble spots of blood, hence the name bloodstone. The name heliotrope derives from various ancient notions about the manner in which the mineral reflects light.

Bloodstone is a powerful crystal that believers say can help build confidence, courage, and determination. Its strong vibrations encourage spiritual tenacity. Place it under a pillow at night to encourage more lucid dreams when sleeping and hopefully wake up feeling more energetic the following morning. Keep it around when making decisions and when you need to bring balance and harmony of the mind, body, and spirit.