Bloodstone amuletic brooch

Bloodstone, seperated from backing, a circular amulet brooch with metal mount and pin for attachment, said to have been worn by a soldier during the First World War, 1914-1918, from the Lovett collection.

The carrying of ‘lucky charms’ – as protective amulets against ill health and physical danger – is common in many cultures around the world. This small circular amulet brooch has a facing of bloodstone with metal mount and pin for attachment. Bloodstone has strong religious associations. Legend has it that it was formed when drops of the crucified Christ’s blood fell and stained stones at the foot of the cross. It’s also traditionally said to have been carried by warriors to help stop the bleeding should they become wounded. This brooch is recorded as being worn by a soldier during the First World War, 1914-1918.

The amulet was bought for the Wellcome collection in 1930 from Edward Lovett’s (1852-1933) collection of British amulets and charms. Lovett was a collector who documented different medical traditions and beliefs.