Why the Interest in Astrological Gemstones?

The stars in their constant movements throughout the heavens are constantly emitting both positive and negative magnetic vibrations. Vedic Astrology is the occult science that studies how these influences affect each person both for good nd for ill.

There is a practical side to the study of Vedic Astrology that involves the use of certain remedial agents that act to protect the body and mind. For thousands of years mankind has known that certain gemstones, metals, and plants can have a positive effect on the body and mind by nullifying or mitigating the harmful influences of the stars.

Of these three elements, Swami Sri Yukteswar, in the Autobiography of a Yogi, written by Paramahansa Yogananda, stated that faultless gems of not less than two carats, worn in contact with the skin, are the most beneficial for astrological purposes. Gems are similar to a lightning rod. They create, what is in effect, a protective field around the body, regulating which cosmic forces are absorbed by the body. In time, the proper gemstones, if kept in contact with the skin, can bring about changes in the mind and body.

The use of astrological gemstones for remedial purposes was mentioned in the ancient Vedic texts. More modern studies can be found today in current astrological and Ayurvedic medical writings. Spiritual progress may be achieved through many avenues such as prayer, meditation, and service,to name a few. The wearing of astrological jewelry is another such effective way to help us.

Properties of Gemstones

Research in current publications ascribe many healing properties to gemstones. hese qualities have been found to be effective not only for physical, mental, or spiritual relief, but also as an aid in one's pursuits in life.

Diamonds

The diamond is considered the greatest of stones, revered throughout the ages for its great beauty, and strength, and also for its powerful positive spiritual and physical influences.

The diamond is said to enhance the wearer with charm and beauty. Physically it strengthens the kidneys and reproductive organs and gives protection in severe isease.

The ancient Romans believed that the diamond, when worn on the left arm, next to the skin, would give the wearer bravery and daring. During the Middle Ages Queen Elizabeth I was given a diamond to ward off the plague.

Ruby

One of the most precious of gems, the ruby can easily be the equal of a diamond in value.

In India and China the ruby is worn to promote health and happiness. A power ascribed to the ruby both in the Orient and Europe was the ability to foretell danger by a loss of color and brilliance.

"Ruby is used in astrology for strengthening the heart, improving digestion, promoting circulation, reviving fire and increasing energy...Ruby strengthens the will, promotes independence, gives insight and enhances power; it was the gem of kings."(1)

Blue Sapphire

This stone is one of the earliest colored gems known to man. "Of colored gems, the Sapphire has been the most venerated amongst all nations, and particularly in the East it is the stone most frequently consecrated to the various deities. Amongst Buddhists it is believed to produce a desire for prayer,..."(2)

Blue Sapphire "clears infections and wards off all negative energies. It is antitumor and 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."(1)

Yellow Sapphire

This stone is considered by many the most effective for promoting all-around health and well-being. It gives energy and vitality and regulates the hormonal system.

Emerald

The Emerald has a great history, being held in high esteem by many cultures throughout history. Emeralds have been found in Egyptian and Etruscan archaeological sites.

The Orient has long had faith in its value, the Emerald representing "hope in immortality, courage and exalted faith, and protection from pestilence,..." (2) The Emerald in India is thought to be an aid in memory and an assist in foretelling the future.

"Emerald calms mental agitation, regulates the nervous system, helps stop nerve pain and improves speech and intelligence ...Emerald promotes healing, energizes the breath, strengthens the lungs...It is a harmonizing stone, good for cancer and other degenerative diseases."(1)

Chrysoberyl Cats-Eye

This is considered a stone with a spiritual emphasis. It "is good for promoting psychic and spiritual perception. Cat's-eye is a good nervine stimulant and is helpful for mental disorders. It is the gemstone of seers and astrologers."(1)

In India, where it is highly valued, it is believed to bring the wearer material wealth as well as preventing its loss.

Hessonite Garnet

Believed in India mythology to be the fingernails of the God, Vala, Hessonite gems are considered the rarest of the planetary stones.

The garnet family was used in ancient times by the Greeks and Romans. In India the garnet was felt to be a guard against poison and disease, and was worn to promote health and cheerfulness.

"Like the yellow sapphire, golden hessonite is a good balancing stone. It calms the nerves, quiets the mind, relieves depression. This stone is recommended for almost everyone, as it counters the negative influences of Maya (illusion)."(1)

Blood Coral

This organic stone is very beneficial to the physical body. "In India, China, and Japan, it is extensively used in Rosaries, and is very popular, being regarded as a sovereign remedy against cholera and all epidemics, and invaluable in indicating to its wearer the presence of poison, or the danger of illness, by changing colour."(2)

Red coral strengthens the blood and reproductive system, improves energy and calms emotion...builds flesh and muscle, gives courage and improves work capacity."(1)

Pearl

Another organic stone, the "Pearl is good for promoting body fluids and the blood, nourishing the body tissues and the nerves...Pearl strengthens the female reproductive system, improves fertility, and calms the emotions."(1)