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Bloodstone is one of the leading gemstones that were treasured and admired in ancient time. The Bloodstone is a variety of chalcedony that has a deep-green color with bright-red nodules of jasper allover it. Harsh chemical or high temperature can easily damage the beauty of the stone. It is a type of quartz. The stone is also known by the names Heliotrope and Martyr’s Stone.
The name Bloodstone was due to the fact that the red spots resembled drops of blood. The name Heliotrope derives from a Greek word that means ‘sun’ and ‘turning’. There is a legend about the source of the Bloodstone. During the Middle Ages people thought that the red spots on the stone had been originated from Jesus Christ and the stones were thought of having special powers. It was used for sculpting statues representing flagellation and martyrdom.
Bloodstone is the traditional birthstone for March. The Bloodstone is thought of having healing ability and mystical powers. In ancient time people believed that it could heal hemorrhages and give relief from stomach pain. Even today Bloodstone is believed to have magical powers and that wearing it would increase ones knowledge.
The Bloodstone is mined mainly in India, Australia, United States, Brazil and China. The price of Bloodstone is not very high. The Bloodstones are used both as gemstones as well as ornamental stones. It is mostly used in making pendant and necklaces. In India Bloodstone sometimes is used for medical purpose.
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