Lapidairy~Bloodstone
By Katharine Clark, Illustrated by Robin Ator
Good Yule, everyone! Bo Ruadh here, just taking a look at the Yule tree our coveners have erected to celebrate the season. We have traditional ornaments in red and white, sacred mushrooms, krampus figures and reindeer, and topping it all--a star of bloodstone.
What's that? It doesn't sound right? The term “bloodstone” gives you the shivers? I think that's just the cold getting to you. You need something to get your blood pumping and warm you up. That's what bloodstone is all about!
Bloodstone is actually a lovely GREEN stone, with flecks of white and red. That is where the “blood” part comes in. Remember from past Yuletides--when talking about shamans and sacred mushrooms--the red color equals creative energy and life. Blood is what keeps your heart pumping and your circulation going. Blood IS life, and so ancient cultures looked upon the bloodstone as highly protective. In fact, it was considered the stone of warriors and guardians.
Not only that, it was considered a fire stone. It warmed the body and the spirit, gave strength, vitality, energy and determination, just the characteristics needed to survive the harshness of winter.
Perhaps surprisingly, it also brought about resolutions to problems and harmony between people in the home. Why would bloodstone do this? Think about it for a moment: families are related by blood. For the body to work correctly, the blood must flow smoothly. For a family or clan to work and survive together, they must have peace among their members.
In months of harsh weather, dwindling food and snow storms that could keep folks “housebound” for days or even weeks, nerves got frayed. Only by striving together did our ancestors pull through the hard times--and it's still true today. Bloodstone can help.
Since it does energize and protect, a bloodstone under your pillow will also guard you against nightmares!
Being a green stone, it is a healer. Naturally it works best on diseases related to blood, but it's not limited to just that. Carrying a bloodstone with you protects and guards you from all kinds of invading germs. That may not be such a bad idea during flu season.
Finally, bloodstone can also attract wealth and success. No, quarters, pence and doubloons will not magically stick to you as you walk the neighborhood, but your efforts to be successful will be enhanced by this versatile gem. Place some in the corners of your room for a peaceful atmosphere, or over your front door sill for protection. Hang one or two on your Yule tree for all the family to see.
Best wishes for a happy holiday season!