Gems & Astrology

Gemstones have fascinated humans for more then 10000 years. When you look at the fine facets of brightly colored gem, you cannot help but gasp at the sheer beauty of these stones that are nature's gift to mankind. From centuries and centuries of loving patience. Well, almost. A precious stone grows in the evolving womb of Nature – seasons, rivers, rains, sunlight, snow and a handful of magic!

And after all the intense years of this metamorphosis, there lies it –blindingly bright, extraordinary, glistening, in its own mystical hue, hidden away in a crevice, waiting by the wall of a cave, an intriguing pebble from the heart a stream, a glinting pinprick of crystal caught in the firelight, or under a boulder, next to a tree…. Wherever the seasons have cast their spell.

Even in antiquity, whose origins could not be ascertained or understood, it is not surprising that it was thought that these beautiful formations could have supernatural powers.

Define:

A gemstone is a naturally occurring crystalline form of a mineral, which is desirable for its beauty, valuable in its rarity . There are some organic gemstones which come from plants or animals, like pearl(moti), coral(munga). But most gems are minerals: natural material with specific chemical composition.

Gemstones in India:

India is a land of ancient tradition and great heritage. A land that has produced finest Natural Gemstones from thousands of years. Jewels crafted for many kings and queens that have reined in the kingdom for many generations. As far bas 77 AD, Pliny, the historian, in his book 'Historis Naturali' had given information about gemstones in India. After the sacking of Golden Temple at Barmatpur, Khausrau wrote, "Its roofs and walls we laid with sparkling rubies and emeralds. The foundation of the temple, which were mines of gold, were dug up , and its jeweled walls, which were mines of precious stones, pulled down. There were 500 mans of precious stones".

When we talk about gem treasures in ancient India, we cannot ignore Mughal era. The fabulous time of Mughals were once considered as world's richest in its time. During the reign of Akbar, Rubies, Sapphires, Emeralds, red and blue yakkuts were classified under 12 categories and pearls into 16 categories. In its own, it is not viable when we talk about gemstones, and we don't mention India.

Importance in Astrology

In India, records exist today which point clearly to a highly developed knowledge of astrology, as far back as about 6,500 BC. Astrology is one of the oldest forms of science. It is based on a body of knowledge known as the 'Vedas,' which translates to 'knowledge' or 'wisdom,' and is referred to as Jyotish, -- the 'light of the heavenly bodies'. Today, astrology is acknowledged as one of the most powerful, while it has been practiced by thousands of astrologers and is followed by millions of people around the world. In various forms of astrology, esp. Vedic astrology, gemstones are regarded as remedy to safeguard against bad planets. Many ancient texts and manuscripts suggest that gems are being used as a remedial measure in astrology. According Garud Puran, "A fine,Auspicious Gemstone can counteract poison, snake venom, diseases, and other dangers".

Astrologically, gems have the capacity to increase the inherent power of particular planet. They are worn to gain power, wealth, health, fame, and relationships. Every gem absorbs radiation coming from the particular planet, and subsequently, it omits energy for a particular purpose. Based on the "Navratna" philosophy in Vedic astrology, this ancient science recognizes the relationship between 9 planets and 9 gemstones. These nine gemstones are Pukhraj, Neelam, Panna, Manik, Gomedak, LahSuniya, Munga, Moti aur Hira.