Bloodstone - The Second Birthstone of March

Bloodstone -  The Second Birthstone of March

Bloodstone is the second birthstone for the month of March. It is also called heliotrope which means "to turn the sun." The bloodstone is sometimes called blood jasper or the martyr's stone but in fact, it is a cryptocrystalline quartz stone. These stones are usually found along with rocks in riverbeds. The primary sources of these stones are Australia, Brazil, and India. 

Symbolism and Properties

Bloodstone is dark green in color. It is a stone flecked with red spots from iron oxide. The bloodstone takes two forms - the heliotrope, with red spots and the plasma, with little to no spots. The solid green color bloodstones are considered to be the best when it comes to quality. You will also find bloodstone in various cuts and shapes, usually in traditional cuts such as oval, cushion, and emerald.

The stone is believed to possess magical and healing powers, particularly for blood ailments. In 5000 BC, the Babylonians used it for divination to magically help them increase their strength to defeat and conquer their enemies. Today, the bloodstone is still used as a lucky charm, to increase strength and creativity.