Gemstones in Vedic Astrology

Gemstones are the perpetual treasures from the womb of earth. Since millions of years gems have been receiving and emitting cosmic vibrations, owing to their unique chemical and electromagnetic attributes.

Astrology is based on the fact that cosmic force of planets governs human body and life. The cosmic structure (signature) imprinted on us, at the time we were born defines our physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and even karmic self. Not every planet is all-powerful at our birth time, and each planet gives varied effects on each individual. One of the major concerns of an astrologer is to study the horoscope, analyse the effect of each planet (see which effect is lacking or required), and assign the gemstone to enhance the required celestial force in our body and life.

The enhancements in the particular planetary vibration we receive from that gem help us to achieve fulfillment in our personality and destiny.

The electromagnetic vibrations of the gems interact with the aura of our body while in touch with our skin. It then forms a sort of productive energy on `union`, which brings about the change in the following spheres of our life.

Gems affect our physical well being. The physical immunity is increased, and corresponding gems helps in achieving ineffectiveness from certain ailments.

They align a particular Chakra in our body. This not only increases our health, but also enhances the overall energy level of the body to a greater height.

Gems direct our emotional and mental faculties, and help in achieving higher grounds by attaining inner peace and wisdom.

Gemstones impart a protection from psychic and mental influences (sub conscience healing and strengthening).

A gem helps in changing the karmic pattern of the person, in relation with the placement of that planet in a particular house.

A gemstone brings significant change only when in alliance with the aura of a person. Hence it is advised to wear the stone consistently and not take breaks for a long time. Gems are similar to a lightning rod. They create, what is in effect, a protective field around the body, which regulates celestial forces absorbed by the body. In time, the proper gemstones, if kept in contact with the skin, can bring about miraculous changes in mind and body.

Gemstone astrology is the way to implement remedial measure to achieve overall success in life. Although due to lack of proper scientific research, application of this science is looked upon as superstition, the fact remains that when guided by a good astrologer, scores of people have had immense benefits by these brilliant sparkling stones influencing human destiny. According to Indian wisdom of astrology, the nine main gems acting as the cosmic boon to human life are classified under `Navratna`.

Navratna n Gemstones

Although traditional Indian gemologists have identified 84 precious and semi-precious stones, amongst them 9 stones namely: Ruby, Emerald, Pearl, Diamond, Red coral, Zircon, Blue sapphire, Yellow sapphire and Cat`s Eye form the Navratnas or nine gems defining the energies of nine planets.

Navratnas interact with human aura to enhance the vibrations of the planets to achieve an overall fulfillment in life.

Each planet has many gems corresponding to its vibrations and cosmic color:

Sun

Sun`s position in a person`s horoscope determines his or her external appearance and public persona. It provides the energy for one`s personal power and influence over others. Sun governs the fields of philosophy, government service, churches and temples, profession of medicine, gold trade and public fame. Solar energy is associated with the fire element, the color red, fatherhood and masculinity, royalty and political power.

The gemstone ruled by this celestial royalty is RUBY.

A Ruby is actually a Sapphire of red color. Its also known as Manikya in Hindi. This red colored gemstone signifies power, authority, good health, and father. It is said to have a positive effect on the health and destiny of the person wearing it. In short it enhances the influence of the master of universe`s effect in our life. Top quality Rubies in larger sizes are frequently valued above all other gemstones including Diamonds.

It protects sensitive natures, health and wealth. It also controls passions, Stimulates blood circulation, gives calm sleep and eradicates nightmares. Its provider of cheery disposition and helps the person suffering from sadness. Ruby is also said to be able to ward off evil spirits, protects against poisons and acts as an antidote to snakebite.

The red cosmic rays imparted by this gemstone directly and profoundly effects the Chakra at Root / Spine / Base Muldhara.

Due to its deep impact in our physical being, our destiny and strength in character, it is known as Deva Mani in Sanskrit. Ruby truly is the `Royal gemstone.`

The other alternative gemstones adorned for Surya are Red Tourmaline, Red Spinel, and Rubellite. All the corresponding stones are set in Gold.

Moon

Lunar energy is associated with the water element, color white, motherhood, femininity, romance and love. Moon is a soft, sensitive planet with watery and pious feminine qualities. Moon governs mind, and its position in one`s horoscope determines a person`s habitual patterns of thought, feeling and volition. All lunar stones correspond to the cosmic color ORANGE. They ward off cold and cough and provide harmony and balance in emotions and thinking.

The most important lunar stone is PEARL or MUKTA. It is also known as queen of gems.

Pearl is a classic piece of jewelry, which is said to help one see himself and improve self-worth. It is spherical organic material obtained from oysters. Pearls come in a variety of shades ranging from white, off white, pink, red, brown, creamy etc. It is worn to strengthen the feminine energy, female reproduction system, calming of emotions and nerves. It is considered as an emblem of modesty, chastity and purity. Pearl symbolizes love, success, and happiness. It epitomize a happy marriage. In many countries pearls are used as a wedding gift.

Pearls activate Spleen/ Sex Swadhisthan Chakra in the body.

White coral and moonstone are the other stones corresponding to Chandra (Moon).

Mercury

Mercury governs intelligence and therefore rules fields of education, literature, communication, and public speaking. It is associated with the Air element, cold energy, the color green, agriculture, travel, and the nervous system. Mercury also governs astrologers, clerks, accounts, sculptors, and any other profession requiring skillful use of the hands. Mercury enhances the ability to learn languages, improves memory, and facilitates the power of speech.

The cosmic color of the planet is green.

The gemstone corresponding to this planet is EMERALD or PANNA.

Emerald calms mental agitation, regulates the nervous system, helps in relieving nerve pain and improves speech and intelligence .Emerald promotes healing, energizes the breath and strengthens the lungs. It is a harmonizing stone, which helps in healing cancer and other degenerative diseases. An emerald symbolizes serenity, success in love, wealth, happiness and peace of mind. Rajasthan is well known for emerald mining. Udaipur and Ajmer are main sources of emerald. Emeralds from Udaipur are dark and hard, while the ones from Ajmer are pale. Emeralds are used in Kundan jewelry, and the green colored Meenakari done on the traditional ornaments often matches their brilliance.

Emerald activates the Chakra of heart or anahata.

It is always set in gold.

Peridot Green-Tourmaline, green jade and other natural green gems of flawless (eye-clean) quality are the other options for Mercury or Budh.

Mars

Mars is a masculine planet that radiates intense and fiery energy. It rules the color red, the metal element, vegetation, and the basic energy of life. The position of Mars in one`s horoscope determines relations among brothers, courage and strength, vitality and sexual drive.

The gemstone corresponding to Mars is BLOOD CORAL or MOONGA.

Coral is obtained from coral reefs and generally comes in red or vermilion color. It is made up of organic material from dead bodies of minute sea organisms.

Blood coral is extensively used in Rosaries, and is popularly regarded as a sovereign remedy against cholera and all epidemics. It is said to be invaluable in indicating to its wearer the presence of poison or the danger of illness by changing its colour. Red coral strengthens the blood and reproductive system, improves energy and calms emotion...builds flesh and muscle, gives courage and improves work capacity.

Red coral is often worn in necklaces, amulets and rings. The coastal regions of India are known for ornaments made from red coral.

It is always set in Gold.

Jasper, Carnelion are the other alternative stones worn for enhancement of Mars energy. The use of flawless fine quality gems is imperative for transmission of auspicious astral energy rays.

Jupiter

Jupiter is the most auspicious and benefic planet known in astrology. It is the planet of luck and fortune. Jupiter also signifies knowledge and expansion in one`s life.

Jupiter governs religious activity, financial affairs, personal happiness, and teaching. Jupiter also determines one`s spiritual orientation. It is associated with the color yellow, the bodily fluids, education, pilgrimage places, and transcendental wisdom. The Sanskrit name for Jupiter is "guru," indicating a source of divine knowledge and spiritual insight. Light blue is the cosmic color of the planet.

The gemstone ruled by `Guru` is YELLOW SAPHIRE or PUKHRAJ / PUSHPARAJ. Yellow Sapphire is the Gem of Destiny. It is known to enhance spiritual understanding. It also facilitates pregnancy and childbirth, improve marital relations, increase one`s fortune, and help balance the endocrine system. Jupiter jewels are known to be especially favorable to women as they enhance their happiness and contentment in life. The person wearing yellow sapphire is bound to have an increase in his mental and intellectual abilities.

The gemstone is set in gold.

Yellow sapphire activates throat vishudhi.

Yellow Topaz, heliodor and Citrine are the other alternative gemstone for Jupiter.

Venus

Venus is the planet of beauty, love, arts, romance, harmony and knowledge. Apart from these very qualities, presence of Venus in our horoscope signifies luxuries and marital happiness. Artists, actors, poets, diplomats, musicians have a strongly placed Venus in their charts.

Indigo is the vibratory cosmic color of this planet.

The gemstone corresponding to Venus is DIAMOND or HEERA / VAJRA.

Diamond is the hardest known material found on earth and the most precious of all stones. It is the ultimate gemstone, having few weaknesses and much strength. It brings beauty, wealth, and prosperity to the person wearing it. The person is also blessed with peace, physical beauty as well as harmony in marriage or relationships.

It enhances the intuitive self of the person and activates 3rd eye or pineal gland.

Diamond is set in gold metal.

Venus also transmits its cosmic energy through other stones like quartz crystals, zircons, goshenites, white topaz, white sapphires, and other colorless gemstones with clear transparency. Various subtle hues such as pink, yellow and blue tints are suitable for different types of professions and social positions, as long as the gem is void of solid color.

Saturn

Saturn is the most feared planet in the mindset of Indians. The planet brings upon various hurdles and obstacles in life. Through these trying experiences it teaches us the lesson of karmic debts, discipline, hard work and detachments. It is known as the hard taskmaster. Shani also rules longevity and brings a sense of responsibilities in our life.

As the malefic planet, Saturn is capable of giving drastic effects. Hence it is usually advised that a thorough checking of horoscope is must before adorning the gemstones of Shanaishchara.

The cosmic color of Saturn is Violet.

Corresponding gemstones of the planet is BLUE SAPHIRE or NEELAM.

Blue sapphire is a brilliant navy blue stone.

Neelam clears infections and wards off all negative energies. It is antitumor, antifat, and good for reducing therapy. Blue sapphire strengthens the bones, increases longevity and helps calm the nerves and emotions. It promotes calm, peace and detachment On one hand it influences good things like long life, ambition, prosperity, leadership, wealth ; and misery, accident, failure, adversity on the other hand. The effect of this stone is highly temperamental in its effects. The best and the brightest blue sapphires come from Kashmir and are called `mayur Neelam` because of their peacock blue colour.

The gemstone can be set in sterling, silver or gold.

The gemstone activates the crown Chakra or pituitary gland.

Amethyst and blue Spinel are the other alternative gemstones of Saturn.

Rahu

Rahu is the head of celestial dragon. It is a malefic planet that brings misery, obstacles and frustration when ill placed in a horoscope. The same planet when well placed gifts wealth, glory and achievements to a person. The gemstone for the planet is worn to ward off evils related with it such as alcohol, drug abuse, ghosts, sorcery etc.

The cosmic vibration for this planet falls in the range of ultra violet.

Gemstone for Rahu is GARNET HESSONITE or GOMEDA.

In Indian mythology, the gemstone is known as the fingernail of God - `Vala`.

The garnet is known to be a guard against poison and disease, and is worn to promote health and cheerfulness. Hessonite helps to eliminate feelings of inferiority, encourages one to seek new challenges and continue personal endeavors. Provides courage for one to do personal endeavors.

Hessonite is also used to regulate hormone production, stimulates metabolism, fortifies the immune system, and encourages absorption of nutrients. It Promotes feelings of peace and inner strength. Stimulates sensitivity and sensuality.

Golden hessonite is a good balancing stone. It calms the nerves, quiets the mind, and relieves depression. This stone is recommended for almost everyone, as it counters the negative influences of Maya

The gemstone is set in silver.

The alternative gemstone for Rahu is orange Zircon.

Ketu

Ketu is a mysterious planetary influence which, like Rahu, is malevolent and afflictive unless located in a powerful position or conjoined with a beneficent planet. Ketu governs theology, monastic life, crime and punishment, hidden enemies, dangers, and the occult. Unless correctly balanced, Ketu can cause poverty and other obstructions in one`s life. Ketu is associated with suffering and the consequent aspiration for spiritual liberation.

The cosmic vibration corresponding to Ketu is in the range of infra Red rays.

Gemstone for Ketu is CAT`S EYE or VAIDURYA.

It is yellow or black colored stone with a shining band, which is similar to the eye of a cat. It also known as sutramani

Cat`s Eye stimulates awareness and intuition. This gem will protect the wearer from all the types of mysterious dangers and diseases. Wearing a cat`s eye increases physical strength, radiance, stamina, happiness, wealth and the joy of progeny. Protects against witchcraft and death.

Cat`s-eyes are especially popular in men`s jewelry. The effects of Ketu are also much similar to that of Mars.

Cat`s eye is set in gold.

Cat`s Eye Tourmaline is the gemstone used as the alternate option.

Panch ratna and Sapta ratna in Gemstones

Along with Navratna, gemstones are also categorized as :

Panch-Ratna Sapt-Ratna. Panchratna are the five gemstone corresponding to the five basic elements considered in Vedas. The five elements and their gemstones are: Element Gemstone Fire / Agni Ruby / Manik Water / Jala Pearl / Moti Earth / Prithvi Emerald/ Panna Air / Vayu Diamond / Heera Ether / Aakash Blue Sapphire / Neelam Saptaratna The light ray is the combination of seven colored rays or `Rainbow`. The seven planets - from Sun to Saturn correspond to these seven colors. On the basis of these seven color-planets, the corresponding gemstones are classified as Saptaratna. Color Planet Gemstone Red Sun / Surya Ruby / Manik Orange Moon / Chandra Pearl / Moti Green Mercury / Budh Emerald / Panna Yellow Mars / Mangal Blood Coral / Moonga Indigo Venus / Shukra Diamond / Heera Light Blue Jupiter / Guru Yellow Sapphire / Pukhraj Violet Saturn / Shani Blue Sapphire / Neelam

Gemstone Harmony

Not every planet is in harmony with the other celestial bodies. Likewise, the vibrations of the two conflicting planets (corresponding gems) should not be mixed. The effects are nullified or result in an unbalance. A particular gemstone should not be worn with the conflicting planetary gemstones.

Sun is incompatible with Saturn, Venus, Rahu and Ketu. Hence Sun gemstones such as Ruby should not be used with Blue sapphire, Diamond, Hessonite or Cat`s eye.

Moon is incompatible with Rahu and Ketu. Hence Moon gems such as Pearl should not be used with Hessonite or Cat`s-eye.

Jupiter is incompatible with Mercury and Venus. Therefore Jupiter gems such as Yellow sapphire should not be used with Emerald or Diamond.

As Rahu (Moon`s north node) is incompatible with Sun and Moon, Rahu gems such as Hessonite should not be used with Ruby or Pearl.

Mercury is incompatible with the Moon. Mercury gems such as Emerald should not be used with pearl or moonstone.

Venus is incompatible with the Sun and Moon. Likewise, Diamonds and other colorless gems should not be used with Rubies or Pearls.

Ketu (Moon`s south node) is incompatible with Sun and Moon. Cat`s eye gems should not be used with Rubies or Pearls.

As Saturn is incompatible with Sun, Moon and Mars, Saturn gems such as Blue sapphire should not be used with ruby, pearl or red coral.

Mars is incompatible with Mercury and Saturn. Therefore, Mars gems like Red Corel should not be used with emerald or blue sapphires.