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CHAPTER 9 Gems and Rudraksha “A gemstone is naturally occurring crystalline form of a mineral, which is recognized and valued for its beauty, rarity, and durability. There are more than 30 popular gem varieties with some substitutes having deviations in colour,source or size making total ratnas and upratnas in numbers to over 100.The basic process of formation of ratnas is due to fire(agni as direct and heat form)from inside the earth and ofcourse time: “Agnimile Purohitam Yajnasya Devam Ritvijam Horaram Ratna Dhatamam” The word Ratna Dhatamam has occurred in the first sloka of the first mandalas of the Rigveda. It says that Agni (Fire) is the origin or the bearer of ratna. Even the modern science affirms the fact that ratnas (gems) are formed by the effect of heat and high pressure. Being buried in the ground for millions of years, gems contain gravitational force and energy of the Earth. Gems, which we find mostly in certain parts of the Earth, belong to the same planets that have mostly affected that tract of land. The Earth conceives ratnas with the help of different planets. That is why the Earth is known as garbha or the conceiver of gems. The whole process of evolution is a constant interplay of the eternal pair of opposites - Sun and Moon, fire and water. The vedic concept of Hiranyagarbha, the golden embryo on the eternal water, clearly indicates the formation of the phenomenal world by the two -- fire and water -- representing male and female principles. Fire somehow seems to be the beginning of the world of names and forms. It flowed in the form of lava, carrying with it all the minerals and the elemental force of nature, which later developed into organic matter through the process of condensation. The condensation and crystallization of minerals produced colorful rocky crystals known as gems. All gems, with the exception of coral and pearls, are the purest and finest consolidation of minerals that were formed due to extreme heat and pressure inside the plates of the molten earth. All gems are, therefore, the source of energy in crystalline form. They are highly sensitive and radioactive. They absorb and transmit energy as frequencies because they are composed of minerals that emit electrical charges in increased pressure, that radiate in low heat, and that glow in the presence of ultraviolet light in darkness after the light source is removed. Gems are composed of the following minerals: Aluminum, beryllium, calcium, copper, fluorine, hydrogen, iron, manganese, oxygen, potassium, phosphorus, sulfur, sodium, silicon, tin, zirconium, zinc and others. Three of these are common in all gems: aluminum, oxygen and silicon. These three are from the bulk of the outermost surface of Earth. Oxygen and silicon are found on almost 75% of Earth’s surface. Aluminum makes up over 8% of the Earth’s crust. Significance of gems Our Earth abounds in various plants, animals, influential metals and stones, which are precious gifts to mankind. Man has been charmed and attracted toward gems since the times immemorial and will continue to be so now and in future. Gems and rudraksha not only cure different diseases by their divine power but when studded with ornaments, they beautify the body. They possess ever-lasting characteristics. They are not affected by natural calamity due to seasonal differences. These gems are available in rivers, mountains, mines and oceans. For example, blue and yellow sapphires are obtained from mines of the Himalayas; diamond, emerald and hessonite (gomed) are obtained from mines; cat’s eye and ruby from rivers and coral and pearls found in sea and ocean. Similarly, all kinds of secondary gems are found in rivers, mines and mountains. The number of gems is much more, but according to the learned mineralogists, there are mainly 84 kinds of gems. Out of these, only seven gems, i.e., ruby, pearl, coral, emerald, yellow sapphire, diamond and blue sapphire (Fig. 43) are regarded as precious gems. Others are semi-precious, but some of them have more value, power and luster than the precious stones. Some of the popular semi-precious stones are hessonite, cat’s eye, topaz, peridot, amethyst, moon stone, garnet, opal, turquoises, tourmalian, quartz, tiger’s eye, onyx, lapis lazuli, amber, jade, gold stone, mahe marium ( pilesstone), elacite (kidney stone) neeli, smoky topaz, aquamarine, agate, kasauti, black star, serphentile, wholedili, rainbow, white coral, lord stone, etc. The five fundamental elements of the cosmos are also in our human body. If balanced in proportion, they keep the body healthy. The same elements are found in the gems, which are as follows: There are fire elements in ruby and coral, water elements in pearl and diamond, earth elements in emerald, sky elements in yellow sapphire and air elements in blue sapphire. These mysterious and coloured gems have great influencing and charming effects on human life. On the basis of purity and hardness, they have been performing great deeds by lessening the malefic effects of planets over the human life and they bring harmony in the good and bad effects of planets. Each and every gem is extremely radioactive and has the capacity to attract the special cosmic rays toward it. Planetary tremors influence our sensitive nerves or veins. Our classics (mythology) tell us that the position of planets in the solar and lunar systems at the time of one’s birth influences him or her throughout the life. Sometimes, the weak influence of planets and stars create imbalances in life. It has been found that wearing gems after proper consideration of one’s horoscope can rid one of mental imbalance, physical suffering and financial obstacles. In this way, gems serve us or arm us or act as our body guard. In human body, Sun represents the soul, Moon mind, Mars perseverance, Mercury voice, Jupiter wisdom (learning), Venus love and Saturn sobriety and thoughtfulness. These planets influence human life and a person’s body continuously. In addition to these planets, there are two shadow planets -- Rahu and Ketu -- whose effects are also experienced in life. In Tantrasara, a famous tantrik scripture, the human body is stated to be an island of nine gems. These nine gems correspond with the nine body constituents (dhatus), which are: flesh, represented by yellow sapphire; hair by blue sapphire; skin by cat’seye: blood by coral; bones by pearls; marrow by emerald; fat by hessonite; semen by diamond; and vitality (life force) by ruby. Gems worked with both kinds of energy -- physio-chemical, i.e., electrochemical; and pranic, i.e., the vital life force – whether they are used as jewellery or taken orally as pastes or oxides as bhasmas. Wearing these gems influences the dhatus and the psychophysical wellbeing in human life. The puranas present beautiful stories about the origin of gems that convey the utility of the gems. The Karma Purana states that gems were created from the seven different kinds of rays of light emanating from the seven major planets of our solar system. These rays were transmitted in the seven colors of the rainbow -- violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange and red. These seven rays of light are responsible for all the existences in the cosmos, including the human body. Colours are the frequencies of light in different bands and, therefore, they emit energy in different forms, which directly influences human body and consciousness. There are hot and cold colours and colours that are neutral (neither hot nor cold). Hot colours increase heat, which result in arrogance and anger; cold colours bring calmness in life system. The neutral colours produce pleasant feelings and joy. The chemical nature of gems brings them in close contact with man. There are crystals of clear and purified chemicals that are also found in the human body. Their contact with the electromagnetic fields of the body becomes easy when they are embedded in pure electrolytes like copper, silver and gold, used in rings worn between two joints of our fingers. Joints are naturally the most sensitive parts of the body, where the network of nerve fibers and the lymphatic fluid together serve as the assimilators of energy emitted by the gems. With their slight and constant contact with the skin, they bring changes in the body chemistry by their interaction with the body’s energy field, which is permeated by an electromagnetic field. Ancient scriptures from across the world have appraised gems as powerful agents of energy that influence human fate and destiny, induce good energy and expel the negative energy that causes sickness, suffering and psychosis. Gems bring peace, prosperity and happiness. Favorable gems bring about name, fame and power and make life comfortable and prosperous. Gems act as storehouses of divine energy and are used for carving objects of worship, like idols, rosaries, talismans (yantras), amulets, pendulums and so forth. They were also used for mandalas and pots used for offering the holy water or keeping the offerings for consecration. Lingams and yantras in pyramid shape are made of sphatik (quartz). We believe the yantras carved on stone and rosaries made of precious stone or rudraksha give siddhi (power of achieving the desired goal) quicker than a rosary made of other beads. Some facts and statements worth knowing about: : 1. Sun is a gaseous planet. It is the hottest of all planets. Mercury is the nearest to it. Mars is the nearest to Earth. 2. Mercury is the smallest of the solar family and Jupiter is the biggest and the brightest one is Venus. 3. Jupiter has the maximum sub-planets in the solar system. Its number is 16. Moon is the only sub-planet of Earth. 4. The solar eclipse falls on the ‘Amavasya’ when Moon comes in between Sun and Earth. And the lunar eclipse falls on the full Moon day, when Sun comes in between Earth and Moon. 5. The moving of Earth on its axis is called rotation. The rotation of Earth causes day and night. Earth rotates on its axis once in 23 hours 56 minutes and 5 seconds. 6. The days and nights are equal on 21 March and 23 September. 7. The longest day is 21 June and the smallest day is 22 December. 8. The function of the solar system is performed by nine planets -- Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn and Rahu and Ketu. The western astrologers have discovered three new planets -- Uranus, Pluto and Neptune. The planets also represent the three sexes -- male, female and common (impotent). Sun, Mars and Jupiter are male planets. Moon and Venus are female planets. Saturn is the female common sex (impotent) planet. Mercury is the male common sex planet. 9. Earth revolves round Sun. Its orbit is equally divided into 12 parts, which are recognised by the special form of star-groups called signs of the zodiac -- Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces. 10. There is equal division of Moon’s orbit, which is called constellation. They are situated in the space respectively from the west to the east. These constellations influence every creature, plants and herbs. These are Ashvini, Bharani, Krittika, Rohini, Mrigshira, Ardra, Punarvasu, Pushya, Ashelesh, Magha, Poorva and Uttara Phalguni, Hast, Chritra, Swati, Vishakha, Anuradha, Jyashtha, Mool, Poorva and Uttarashada, Sharavana, 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. Dhanishtaa, Shatbhisha, Poorva and Uttra Bhadripad and Rewati. Once every Poornima (the full Moon day), Moon stays on every constellation. There is an auspicious constellation during the period starting from 11.48 a.m. to 12.10 p.m.(IST). This auspicious period is called Abhijit constellation. If a man starts any work in this auspicious period, he gets success and prosperity certainly. Pushya is the emperor of all the 27 constellations. If Pushya falls on Thursday or Sunday, it is the Amrit Yoga (Nectar) period of time. It is very auspicious and beneficial to buy and wear a gem at this time. We join our body with the natural electricity by wearing metals like gold, silver and copper. Gems receive rays of energy from planets and leave their effects on health and brain of man by entering into the body with the metallic effect. Rudraksha wearing probably saves us from any excessive positive or negative energy and keeps the mind and body in balance. The Hindi names of gems are: Ruby - Manik, Pearl - Moti, Coral Moonga, Emerald - Panna, Yellow Sapphire - Pukhraj, Blue Sapphire Neelam, Hesspnite - Gomed, Cat’s Eye - Lahsunia. The Hindi names of the zodiac signs are: Aries - Mesh, Taurus - Vrishabha, Gemini - Mithun, Cancer - Karka, Leo - Sinh, Virgo - Kanya, Libra - Tula, Scorpio - Vrishchika, Sagittarius - Dhanu, Capricorn - Maker, Aquarius Kumbha, Pisces – Meena, Dragon’s Head - Rahu and Dragon’s Tail - Ketu. Rudraksha is a natural gem and is self-power-packed and its level of working is far superior to any of the gems. In combination with gems, it enhances the effects of gems multifold. Multiple powers of gems Gems are being used by men form time immemorial. They are mostly used to gain wealth, longevity of life, power and popularity and to avert diseases and disasters. Kings and ambitious people were advised by their astrologers to use the best gems in order to protect themselves from all calamities and to achieve all round success. 1. 2. 3. 4. Ruby (for Sun) It gives name, fame, vigour, virtue, warmth and the capacity to command. It can raise the individual above the status in which he was born. Historically, it has been symbolic of love and passion. Pearl (for Moon) pearl strengthens mental faculties, calms emotions and increases peace of mind. It is a common custom for brides to wear pearl nose ring and necklace for the wedding ceremony. This is believed to ensure a happy conjugal life and protection from widowhood. It also provides vitality and wisdom. Red Coral (for Mars) One who wears red coral becomes courageous. It also helps in curing blood diseases. Emerald (for Mercury) It improves memory, communication and intuition and sharpens the intellect and the ability to learn. Its wearer gets sufficient wealth. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Yellow Sapphire It is most widely used to enhance one’s financial status. The wearer gets plenty of wealth, good health, name, honor and fame. It is also said that if there are obstructions in finding a suitable match for a girl, she gets married early by wearing this gem. Diamond One who wears a diamond has a luxurious life. It enhances his or her name, fame and artistic quality. It also improves sexual power. Blue Sapphire (for Saturn) It counteracts envy from others and keeps away evil. It eliminates long term misfortunes. Sometimes, this stone reacts adversely, so it should be tested for a week before final use. It is said that this stone has the magical power to raise its wearer to a higher status on all sides. It can give health, wealth, longevity of life and happiness. It also restores lost wealth and property. Gomed or Hessonite (for Rahu) Rahu is said to be responsible for all sorts of delays in the fulfillment of ambitions. So, one who wears gomed can hope for a speedy success in lesser time than expected. It improves relations with people and protects one from sudden misfortunes. It is said to be the best gem to avert stomach ailments, disaster, insanity and evil spirits. Cat’s Eye (for Ketu) This gem protects its wearer from hidden enemies, mysterious dangers and diseases. It also protects from drowning, intoxication and government punishment. It brings fortunes to gamblers (horse racing, casino etc). Sun and its gem stone ruby There are nine planets in the solar system. Sun is the ruler of all the planets that rotate around it. Sun represents the fire and creates the day. It is one of the stars of the planetary system. Sun is considered as the soul and the king of all planets. The gemstone ruby, representing Sun, has reddish purple colour, its nature is biledominated and it is the lord of the direction east. Ruby is a mineral (stone). In terms of chemistry, it is a mixture of aluminum, oxygen, iron and chromium. Ruby mines are found in China, Burma, South India, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. Ruby must be worn by those whose zodiac sign is Leo or the Sun’s positions in the horoscope is weak. The wearing of ruby removes poverty, imparts prosperity, name and fame in political sphere and a son is born to the wearer. It is beneficial to those who are aspiring to high offices. Ruby is worn by engineers, mineralogists, goldsmiths (jewelers), actors, dramatists, artists, government officials, politicians, diplomats, merchants and all those aspiring to fame, those engaged in stock trading and dealers of cloth, cotton paper and flowers. Creative people, who want fame and good health, must wear Ruby. A man, in whose horoscope the sun is in debilitation, is likely to suffer from diseases of the backbone, heart, brain, eyes and lungs, indigestion, low and high blood pressure, dyspepsia, piles, diabetes, jaundice and cholera. Wearing ruby can cure these disorders. The wearer can also save himself from diseases like dysentery, hiccups, diarrhea and consumption also. How to wear Its weight should be at least 3 ratti (360 mg). The more the weight, the greater is the effect. Ruby is to be studded in copper or gold. Before wearing, it should be kept in water obtained from the river Ganga or spring water, which is mixed with unboiled milk on a Saturday night. After washing it with water on Sunday before 10 a.m., it should be worn on the ring finger chanting the mantras “Om Hreem Hansah Suryaye Namah Om” and saying the prayer ”O God! Sun we have put on your gem for your grace, kindly save us fully’. The wearer should then donate red cloth, wheat, jaggery, copper and money according to his or her capacity to a brahmin. Fasting on Sunday also soothes the malefic sun. Ruby keeps on affecting the wearer for four years from the day on which it is worn. Persons whose names start with ma, mee, mi, mu, mo, ta, tee, tay, tu should regard Leo as their sign of the zodiac. Persons born on dates 1, 10, 19 and 28 of any month and persons born during the period from 17 August to 16 September or in the month of January or July should wear ruby. Rudraksha recommended for these persons are of one, three and 12 mukhis. Moon and its gem stone Pearl Moon is the presiding deity of the element water and rules over the tides of the sea. The sphere of Moon is the reservoir of rainwater and thus Moon is the ruler of plants and the vegetable kingdom. Moon represents mother or female principle, the energy that creates and preserves. Moon is one of the main sub-planets taking light from Sun. It revolves round Earth scattering its shining light. It also revolves around Sun. The full moon and the dark fortnight (Amavasya) happen when there is difference of six rashis between Sun and Moon. The colour of Moon is white. Its nature is mucus-dominated, tender-hearted, wise and learned. It rules the peace of mind, comfort, general well being and also the fortune of a person. The gem stone related to Moon is Pearl. Pearl is a kind of stone. It is a compound of calcium and oxygen. In terms of its chemical combination it is regarded as a kind of calcium carbonate. Pearl belongs to Moon and the zodiac sign Cancer. It is available in various colors. The rain drops, falling into the mouth of pearl oysters during the Swati Nakshatra solidifies them into pearls. But, the increasing demand and attraction toward pearls have inspired the scientists to provide us with a large number of cultured pearls. Nowa-days with modern technology, substances similar to rain drops during the Swati Nakashtra are infused into the sea shells which in layer after layer of nacre, cover them with coral substance. These are called cultured pearls. The same shell prepares both real and cultured pearls. Therefore, there is no difference in their importance. Its availability in a large number has secured it popularity in the society. According to astrology, Moon influences human mind to a great extent. Pearl should be worn by those persons who get agitated very fast, lose their cool and come to blows. Pearl pacifies passions and mental inconsistencies and strengthens the heart. It provides royal kindness, blessings from parents, family pleasure and wealth and increases administrative qualities and power of imagination. It removes abdominal diseases, increases intelligence and learning capacity. In medical science, its various uses are listed. It benefits those who suffer from diseases pertaining to eyes, throat, heart, urine, hydrocele, cough, and scarcity of calcium, diseases pertaining to female sex, indigestion, tiredness, general disease and physical weakness. In men, it brings luster and brightness on the face. If a mother buys a pearl for her child, it will bring in lots of benefit to the child. How to wear It’s weight should be at least 2 ratti (240 mg). Its value increases with increase in weight. Pearls should be studded in silver rings or pendants and worn on Monday evenings, when the Moon is rising, after washing with water and unboiled milk and chanting “Om Som Somaye Namah Om” or “Om Chandraya Namah” preferably in a temple of Lord Shiva. It should be worn on the smallest finger of the right hand. After that rice, sugar, wheat, cloth and money should be donated to a brahmin. Pearl’s influences last for two years, one month and 27 days from the day it is worn. People whose name starts with he, hu, hay, ho, da, dee, du, day and do should regard their sign of zodiac as Cancer and they should wear pearl. According to western astrology, persons whose date of birth falls on 2, 11, 20 or 29 of a month should wear pearl. Persons born during the period from 16 July to 17 August should wear pearl. People whose lucky number is two and seven can also wear pearl. Rudraksha recommended for these people are two mukhi on Gaurishankar. Mars and its gem stone coral Mars is the commander-in-chief of the assembly of the nine planets. It is also personified as the god of war. It is regarded as a malefic planet in astrology and gives its natives the ability to put their own desires above those of others. Its color is red and the ruler of the direction is south. On account of its nearness to Earth, it is called “Angarak” and the son of Earth. It is the symbol of blood and perseverance in human life. The gemstone related to Mars is coral and its zodiac signs are the Aries and the Scorpio. Since ancient times, coral has been given recognition by all astrologers. It is not a mineral. It is kind of organic substance. It is prepared by a non-vertebrate sea organism called Isis Nobiles. Coral is found in the shape of vine branch at about 600700 feet deep in the sea. Scientists regard it as a component of calcium carbonate. Corals are found in many colors like red, scarlet, saffron, pink to vermilion red and white. Its temperament is hot. It creates many virtues like courage, perseverance, capability to face and solve difficult circumstances and problems and enables a person to take risks. On account of being the master gem of Aries and Scorpio, it removes obstacles in the way of fortunes and increases their influences. Men who are either pigeon-hearted or defeated by their enemies should wear coral. It is also an ideal gem for a happy marital life. It should be worn by soldiers, policemen, electricians, surgeons, players and the workers of ordinance factories. It is useful for enhancing self-confidence, administrative capability and the power of utilising the rights in social and political spheres. It is beneficial in deals involving buying and selling of land and properties. Coral prevents abortion, fever, piles, impotency, typhus, smallpox, etc. Children can be saved from diseases like rickets and stomach ache by wearing coral mala or beads around their necks. The use of coral oxide with honey makes one strong and used with betel leaf, coral paste cures cough and the heart disease. How to wear Coral’s weight should be at least 2.5 ratti (300 mg) for a ring. Coral weighing 5, 7, 9, 11, 13 rattis bring in more fortune. It should be embedded with gold or copper. The coral ring should be worn on the ring finger. The best time to wear the ring is one hour after sunrise or up to 11.00 a.m. reciting Om Bhaum Bhaumaye Namah Om. The wearer should donate lentils, jaggery and money after tying in a red cloth to a brahmin or a priest. Jaggery should also be fed to a red ox, if that is possible. Before wearing the ring for the first time, immerse it in raw cow’s milk and wash it in the Ganga water. Coral gems keep on influencing its wearer for three years and three days from the time it is worn. It should be worn by the native of the Aries sign of the zodiac, persons whose names start with chu, che, cho, la, li, lu, le, lo, a and Scorpio persons whose name begin with tao, na, nee, nu, nay, no, ya, yee, you and persons whose date of birth falls on 9, 18, 27, or born during the period starting on 14 April to 15 May and from 17 November to 15 December. People whose lucky number is nine can also wear it. Rudraksha recommended for those persons are three mukhi or 12 mukhi. Mercury and its gem stone emerald The planet Mercury is regarded as the prince among the assembly of nine planets. Mercury is the son of Moon by his wife Rohini. In human body, mercury represents wisdom and voice. Mercury is the ruler of two signs of the zodiac, Gemini and Virgo. The gemstone related to Mercury is emerald. It is a mineral, a compound of silicate of aluminum, beryllium and oxygen. Its colors are light, deep green. This gemstone is rare because it is very difficult to find a flawless emerald. Emerald is found mostly in India, Russia, Brazil and Columbia. It is a delicate gemstone and fragile. It is found in the mines of coal. Black spots and filaments are often seen in it due to high presence of carbon. It is recognized by its black spot. In genuine emerald, cracks are often found, but it does not affect its value. By wearing it, a man can pacify mental disturbances. It should be worn especially by diplomats, scientists, astrologers, teachers, architects, medical personalities, doctors, businessman, property dealers, publishers, accountants, engineers, writers, post officers, insurance officers and intellectuals. It increases reasoning power, presence of mind and spiritual power. The goddess of learning, Saraswati, sharpens the intellect of students, singers, dancers, and musicians by her grace on those who wear emerald. It increases eyesight, food grains, property and offspring and destroys effects of black magic, bad effects by evil spirits and nightmares. There are many notions about emerald. If it is tied around the waist of a pregnant woman about to deliver her child, it makes the delivery very easy. It is considered auspicious when a lover presents it to his partner. If someone intends to harm a person wearing emerald, he gets exposed. It makes the wearer full of love, sympathy and magnanimity. A weak Mercury in men’s horoscope causes many diseases like asthma, rheumatism, cough, stammering, spondylitis, etc., and therefore, in this condition, wearing of emerald is most useful. How to wear The weight of emerald should be at least 2.5 ratti (300mg) for a ring or a pendant. Its power increases with its weight. Emerald should be embedded in an alloy of five metals (panch dhatu) or silver. The ring should be washed with unboiled milk before 11 a.m. After touching this ring to the feet of the desired god and chanting om bum Budhaye namah om, it should be worn on the smallest finger and donate money to a brahmin and feed green vegetables with leaves to a cow. Emerald is effective for three years from the time it is worn. Persons of Gemini sign of the zodiac, whose name start with ka, ki, ku, gha, anga, cha, ke ko, kay and of Virgo sign of the zodiac, having their names starting with to, pa, pee, pu, ana, the pay, po should wear emerald ring. According to the western opinion, persons born on dates 5, 14 and 23 of any month or during the period between 15 June and 15 July and between 17 September and 16 October should wear emerald. Persons whose lucky number is five can also wear it. Please note that if emerald is not available, any of its substitutes like margaz, peridot, tourmaline (green) or onyx can be worn. Rudraksha recommended for these persons is four mukhi. Jupiter and its gem stone yellow sapphire Jupiter is the largest and heaviest of the planets in the solar system and the teacher (guru) of gods. Jupiter is given the ministership among the assembly of nine planets. Jupiter is a sattvik and benefiting planet, signifying luck and fortune. The color of Jupiter is yellow. Thursday is his day and northeast is his direction. The gemstone related to Jupiter is the yellow sapphire, which is most beneficial to the natives of Sagittarius and Pisces signs of the zodiac. Yellow Sapphire is a mineral. It has been found that it contains aluminium, hydrogen and fluorine. It is found in the Himalayas, Sri Lanka and Russia. It is weighty, smooth and transparent and found in many colors -- white, light and deep yellow and light orange. The yellow sapphire is regarded as the best of gems as it is related to Brihaspati (Jupiter), who is the teacher of gods. Brihaspati represents wisdom and religion in human life. Therefore, it is such a gem which is worthy to be worn by all. The wearer gets the knowledge of law, ethics, wit, wisdom, pleasure of getting children, worldly happiness, para-physical bliss, physical power, cleverness, long life, good health, food grains, prosperity, glory and mental peace. It is most beneficial to authors, writers, barristers, traders and businessmen. Girls in the family who have reached the age of marriage should wear yellow sapphire because it removes obstacles in marriages. A spouse (husband or wife) should wear it for a happier conjugal life. It helps to pacify the anger of its wearer by providing sharp sightedness. It strengthens the bondage of friendship. It shows its influence by removing the danger of accidental death. A ring of yellow sapphire brings good luck, peace and prosperity. It bestows vigor, vitality, wisdom, longevity, name and fame. The wearer also progresses in the spiritual field and becomes free from all the evil effects of ghosts. It is also accepted that it is beneficial to the patients suffering from fever, cough, rheumatism, bad breath and kidney disease. How to wear Yellow sapphire for making ring should weigh at least 3 ratti (360 mg). Its effect increases with its weight. It should be embedded in gold or Panch Dhatu. It should be worn on Thursday morning at dawn after worshipping a banana tree and chanting. Om gum guruve namah in the first finger. After this, the wearer should donate grams, pulses, yellow flowers, cloth and money to a brahmin. In order to make the position of Jupiter favorable and to draw the best benefit of yellow sapphire, the wearer should feed a horse with gram pulse on Thursday. Yellow sapphire keeps on influencing the wearer for four years, three month and 18 days. It should be worn by the natives of the Sagittarius sign of the zodiac whose names begin with yae, yo, bha, bhi, bhu, dha, pha, adha, bhay, the Pisces sign whose names begin with dee, du, gha, jha, gyan, day, do cha, chee, persons who are born on dates, 3, 12, 21, 30 of any month or in the period from 15 March to 13 April and from 16 December to 14 January and those whose lucky number is three and in whose case Jupiter is in debilitation or afflicted. Please note that if one cannot afford yellow sapphire, semi precious gem topaz or citrine can be used. At the time of buying yellow sapphire, the buyer should look for its purity, cracks or breach (bubbles). Yellow sapphire is a transparent gem. There are filament-like signs on yellow sapphire like veins in human body. These are called signature of the nature by which it is recognized as genuine sapphire. Therefore, if filaments are present the yellow sapphire is 100% genuine. It can be a fake if there are no filaments. Venus and its gem stone diamond Venus is regarded as the brightest planet only after Sun and Moon in the sky. Venus or Shukra is the teacher of demons. He is also allotted the office of a minister in the nine planets of the solar system. It is said that Lord Shiva imparted the knowledge of making the dead alive (mrityusanjivini vidya) to Shukra. Venus is also important because of its association with the science of mantras and medicine, tantra, the casting of spells, hypnotism, mesmerism and alchemy. It is also called the god of fine arts, love, beauty and attraction. It provides pure maternal love in human life. The gemstone of Venus is diamond and its zodiac signs Taurus and Libra. Diamond, the king of gems, abounds in chemical properties and it is the most precious mineral. It is famous for its surprising luster, hardness and beauty. Chemically, it is solid carbon. It is found in mines and plains. Its colors are white as well as other colors. It looks like the source of the divine dazzling light of the stars in the sky. According to astrology, if Venus is in a weak position in one’s horoscope and the man has the Taurus or Libra sign of the zodiac, he can improve his destiny by wearing a diamond. Wearing diamond rids one of inferiority complex, brightness is seen on his face and many other qualities are created automatically. The person of the opposite sex gets attracted to the wearer of diamond. Diamond is beneficial to poets, painters, artists, actors and sellers of perfumes and ornaments and their makers too. It is advantageous to confectioners, hoteliers, gold sellers, doctors and sellers of sugar and rice. The wearers of diamond can be saved from ominous things and evil spirits, witches, ghosts and black magic. Even the effect of poison decreases. It increases the stamina and makes the marital life happy and permanent. It also improves health and checks untimely death. According to Shukracharya, a woman who wants a son in her first delivery should not wear diamond, especially in her fingers, since the beginning of her pregnancy. It is advantageous in diseases like epilepsy impotency, rheumatism, hydrocele, shortage of semen and other sexual diseases. How to wear Diamond’s weight should be one ratti (121mg) and the ring should be made in 18 carat or 60% gold. It can also be embedded in silver or panch dhatu. It should be washed in unboiled milk or the Ganga water. After this, the person should meditate before the deity of his choice on Friday and chant the mantra Om shum shukraye namah om. The wearer should donate white cloth, ring, ground sugar and money to a brahmin. Elephant, white cow or white horse should be fed with fruits. Diamond will have its effect for seven years on human body from the time it is worn. Persons whose name start with ee, ai, u, o, wa, wi, wu, and born under the Taurus sign of the zodiac, persons whose name begin with ra, ree, ru, ray, ro, ta, tee, tu, te under the Libra sign of the zodiac should wear diamond. It should also be worn by those who are born on 6, 15 or 24 of any month or during the period from 15 May to 15 June and from 17 October to 16 November. Persons whose lucky number is six or whose Venus is in debilitation can also wear diamond. Please note that if diamond is not available or seem to be costly, semi-precious stones sphatik (quartz) or white sapphire can be worn. These gems also have the same effects. The planet Venus is considered cruel or most angry. It is therefore advisable to consult an astrologer before wearing diamond. Otherwise, it may cause harm than any advantages. Rudraksha recommended for these people are of five mukhi. Saturn and its gemstone blue sapphire Saturn is given the post of an attendant in the solar system. According to Linga Puran, Saturn is born from the exuberant light mass of Lord Rudra and according to Markendaya Purana, Saturn was born to Chhaya, wife of Sun. Its speed is very slow and that is why it is called ‘Shaneshchar’, meaning a slow mover. In Indian astrology, Saturn is considered to be the most malefic but its leaves an effect of happiness in the end. After throwing a man into misfortunes and calamities, Saturn ultimately saves him. He is regarded as the strongest of all planets. It rules the owners of the zodiacal signs Capricorn and Aquarius. It rules the direction of west. Blue sapphire is the gemstone of Saturn. Blue sapphire is a compound of aluminum and oxygen. Due to slight mixture with cobalt, it becomes blue. It is the gem of kurundan family. It is found in Kashmir and from this source one gets the best quality but now it is not available because the government has banned the mining of blue sapphire. Blue sapphire is also found in Sri Lanka and this is considered as the best, with its deep light colours and transparency. Blue sapphire of deep color and transparency is found in Thailand and Australia too. Blue sapphire shows its effects sooner than any other gem. It is very useful and effective to the wearer, destroys his diseases, faults, sorrows, poverty and increases his food grains, prosperity, strength, glory, life span and offspring. It also restores the property, which the wearer might have lost prior to the wearing. If it is proved unfavorable, it may make all the efforts, activities fruitless and may destroy every thing of the wearer. Blue sapphire is most useful especially to transporters, property dealers, contractors, mill owners, dealers in machines, laborers, hawkers, policemen, workers of local self-government and financers. It is said that it can give peace to the heart of the man if it is worn near the heart. According to a Buddhist monk, evil thoughts are destroyed and mind and behavior remain pacified by wearing blue sapphire. Morality remains firm in ladies who wear blue sapphire. Men, whose zodiacal signs are Capricorn and Aquarius, can wear blue sapphire without any hesitation. It can never harm them. It should be taken off, if its color has changed or it is cracked because this is a warning to the wearer that he should change his gem. It should be bought in the evening. Its weight should be at least 3 ratti (360mg). Increase in weight increases its effect How to wear Blue sapphire should be embedded in silver or panch dhatu. Its rings should be kept in a copper bowl full of water on Friday. It should be worn in the middle finger after pouring the water of the bowl at the roots of a Peepal tree, two hours before the sunset reciting om sham shanaishcharaye namah om. One should pray to Saturn for bestowing the best result and providing help in overcoming difficulties. One should donate black urad, salt, mustard oil, soap, tea leaves and money according to one’s capacity at the Peepal tree and pray for wellbeing. Male buffalo should be fed with green leaves and cotton seeds and Shivalinga should be bathed with milk. It continues influencing the man for five years after it is worn. Persons whose names start with bho, ja, jee, khee, khu, khey, gaa, gee and belonging to , Capricorn and Aquarius and those whose names start with gu, gay, go, saa, see, su, say, so, daa, should wear blue sapphire. People born on 8, 17, 26 of any month and born during the period from 15 January to 14 March as well as those whose lucky number is eight can also wear the gem. In case if one cannot buy it, its sub-gems are amethyst, blue stone, Bangkok blue sapphire, sangnili etc. These sub-gems also provide advantages. They never harm the wearer. Rudraksha recommended for these people are seven mukhi and 14 mukhi (along with 8 mukhi) Rahu and its gem stone hessonite (gomed) Like other planets of the solar system, Rahu and Ketu are not the mass of light. Some scholars consider them as moon falls (chandrapat), some of them call them shadows of Earth, others describe Rahu as shadow of the North Pole and Ketu as that of South Pole. In spite of all the above facts, Rahu and of Ketu show their far-fetched influence over man and all other beings. Therefore, their presence can never be ignored. Although Rahu rules no sign of the zodiac, its zodiacal sign is Virgo, which is in fact assigned to Mercury. Zircon or hessonite (gomed) is releted to Rahu. It is found in Bihar and Orrisa in India and in Sri Lanka. Its colour is like the colour of cow’s urine. It has also the shade of honey tinged with blackish colour If Rahu is powerful in one’s horoscope, it causes or bears many diseases, like mental strain, disturbance in one’s business, struggles in life, continuous shortage of money, disturbed marriage, quarrel between husband and wife, possibility of divorce and nightmares. Wearing hessonite can help one to get rid of these ill effects. It is also useful to those who want to get success in law practice, court affairs, government service, political spheres, gambling or any unsocial, illegal activities. Enemies cannot stand long before the wearer of gomed. How to wear It should weigh at least 3 ratti (480mg) and should be washed by the Ganga water and unboiled milk after embedding it in silver or panch dhatu. It should be worn on the middle finger chanting om on Saturday after sunset. The wearer should donate sesame seeds, mustard oil, blue cloth, blanket and money as much as possible to a brahmin or priest and horse should be fed with grass and milk offered to a snake. Gomed goes on affecting the wearer for three years from the day it is worn. It is also good for persons born between 15 February and 14 March and persons having lucky number four Rudraksha recommended for these people is eight mukhi. Ketu and its stone cat’s eye According to Shri Bhagwat Puran, the nectar pitcher was one of the things that came out of the sea after it was churned. When the gods and demons clashed to get the nectar, Lord Vishnu took the incarnation of a most attractive and charming woman, called Mohini, and started distributing the nectar to both Devas and Asuras. Rahu, a learned demon and son of Viparchitti and Shimica, realized that Mohini was none other than Vishnu and that He was giving the nectar to the Devas and wine to the Asuras. He, then, sat among Devas and as soon as he drank the nectar, Moon and Sun saw that it was the demon who was sitting among them and identified him as Rahu. They informed Vishnu that Rahu has now become immortal after drinking the nectar. He was then cut into two parts. The head became Rahu and his remaining body became Ketu. Rahu and Ketu were thrown in opposite directions by Vishnu. Both these planets are situated at a distance of 180 degrees apart from one another. Since then, there is constant enmity between Rahu, Ketu, Moon and Sun. Therefore, both of them capture Moon and Sun and the events are the lunar and the solar eclipses respectively. Ketu’s sign of the zodiac is Pisces. But in reality it is the sign of Jupiter. Its gem is cat’s eye. It is found in many colours. It has white lines over it and looks similar to the eye of a cat. It is found in South India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, China and many other countries. People who become victims of Saturn, Rahu and Ketu stand to gain by wearing cat’s eye. It should be worn when there are obstacles in business, fear of accidents and despair in life. It brings in strength, brightness, bravery, pleasure, bliss, prosperity and offspring. It not only saves a man from his enemy but brings victory over the enemy. It is also said that it destroys sorrow, poverty, diseases and calamities and saves the wearers from evil spirits, hidden enemies and royal punishment. Lost money is found again and stays long by wearing it. How to wear Its weight should be at least 3 ratti (360 mg). Its effect increases with its increasing weight. It should be embedded in silver or panch dhatu and should be worn on the middle finger chanting om kaim ketave namah on Wednesday or Saturday evening. Sand-coloured cloth and iron-based item should be donated and bread should be fed to a goat with one’s own hands. Its goes on affecting the wearer for three years from the day it is worn. Rudraksha recommended for these persons is nine mukhi. Some facts and statements worth knowing about: 1. Some gems bear few threads and signs on them. They are inborn and called ‘nature’s signature’. 2. The index finger of one’s hand represents Jupiter, the middle finger Saturn, Rahu and Ketu, the ring finger Sun and Mars and the small finger Mercury and Moon respectively. The thumb represents Venus and if Venus proves to be beneficial to a man the diamond ring can be worn on the ring finger. 3. It is not necessary that the gem touches one’s body to have the influence, but it must be made a point that the lower part of the ring should be kept open so that Sun’s rays enter the body and show their effect. 4. If a husband wears a gem on his left hand, his wife will get the benefit. And when the wife wears it on her right hand, the husband will derive benefit. 5. If a planet is found beneficial, its respective gem should be worn on the right hand. If we have to lessen the effect of any planet, its ring should be on the left hand. 6. A girl should wear the gem on right hand before her marriage and on her left hand after the marriage. 7. Nobody should show his ring to any other person after taking if off. 8. It is not necessary that the gem for a planet should be worn only in rings. They may be worn around the neck and even necklaces and malas using the gems can also be worn. 9. It should be remembered that the radiation from a gem is not regular. It always radiates with pause. It may radiate for half an hour, an hour or a couple of hours or indefinitely and may abruptly stop for any indefinite period. Hence, according to the quantum theory, a gem should always be on the body, because no one knows when its radiation commences and stops. Semiprecious gems The use of precious and semiprecious stones has been popular in eastern and western countries and in the Middle East. Plato believed in the correspondence of gems with the planets of our solar systems. Throughout the world, gems have been used not only as ornaments but as agents of energy and storehouse of occult power. Coral, pearl, rock crystal, onyx, amethyst, jade and agate have been more popular in the west than in the east. Amber and rock crystals are mentioned in the Holy Bible. In Germany, amber beads in the form of necklace are given to children to help them in teething; many people use amber to save themselves from rheumatism. The Turks used amber for the mouthpiece of their smoking pipes to prevent infection. In India sadhus wear amber beads or necklace to save them from disorders of the stomach, intestines, and liver. In Rome, the use of coral is older than the use of pearls. Romans used coral not only as jewellary rings, necklace etc., but also as amulets and charms against fire, lighting, whirlwind, sorcery, poison and shipwreck. Coral was also used to help children in teething. Amethyst was the favourite stone of the Greeks. They used it for good dreams, valour, chastity and safety from thieves. There are 84 kinds of gems. Out of these, there are only nine gems, which have been described before and the remaining are semi-precious gems. Many of them are used in making idols, crockery and decorative items. Some of them are not available now. The semi-precious gems, which are now in fashion, have more luster, value and influence than the real ones. Some of the semi-precious gems are: 1. Amber: In Hindi, it is called kaharua. It is not a gemstone but a fossil resin. It is mostly found in red and yellow colours. Of all gems, it is the most ancient, light and soft. It is found in the coasts of England, China, Thailand, the seas of Baltic and Sicily in the shape of gum or oily substance. When worn around the neck, it pacifies the mind. It is believed that wearing amber will help one to have a balanced outlook. This may be true because amber possesses a magnetic property, which works on the electromagnetic field of the body and enables the wearer to achieve more self-control and better physical health. Evil spirits or black magic does not affect the wearer. He does not fall prey to any diseases of throat. Its crystals are beneficial in infectious diseases. One or two beads of amber must be worn round the neck of the children. Rudraksha to be used along with amber is 10 mukhi and six mukhi. 2. Agate: It is an opaque gem. It is beautiful after being chiseled. It is found in many colors. Depictions of trees, cloud, grass and plants are sometimes found in the stone. It contains divine power. It is a fortunate gem for the farmers and other manual workers. For removing bad planetary effect, one should wear an agate mala of the color pertaining to the planet to which one is assigned. The mala should be used as beads while chanting mantras concerning the planet. Rudraksha to be used along with agate is 5 mukhi. 3. Amethyst: In Hindi it is called jamunia or kataila. Its color is popular. Its importance depends upon its thickness and color. With increasing thickness, its value and effects too go up. Due to excess of iron in it, its wearer gains spiritual power. It suppresses evil passions. It also makes a man abstain from wine. The wearer can never lose moral status and it makes him or her hate evil deeds giving mental peace and consolation. Therefore, it is more in demand nowadays than in the past. In the western countries, ladies wear it to make their husbands love them permanently. It is also worn to pacify the arrogance of Saturn. People generally wear it instead of the blue sapphire. Rudraksha to be used with amethyst is seven mukhi and eight mukhi. 4. Aquamarine: It is known as beruj in Hindi. It belongs to the family of emerald having the colour of the sky. It is also transparent. It has all the qualities that an emerald has and many people wear it instead of emerald. It is more useful for those who go on a voyage. It can be safely used by all. It is especially calming if used as a necklace, armlet, amulet or pendent. In females, it increases feminine virtues. 5. Carnelian: It is found in colours of red, brown and orange. If a person feels feverish in the evening, its mala is beneficial because it absorbs excessive body heat and cools the person. Its garland gives forbearance, perseverance and self-confidence and it also removes the evil effect on the wearer. Rudraksha to be used is six mukhi and 13 mukhi. 6. Citrine: It is a transparent yellow stone. It is used in place of yellow sapphire. According to great scholars, it increases one’s fortune. Egyptians and Romans believed that it should be used when a man is suffering from weak eyesight or any other kind of eye diseases. Its wearer gets more and more financial and physical power, long life, honour, friendship, success, beauty and wisdom. Its also gives pleasure and blessing from the elders. It is a symbol of friendship. The wearer does not get nightmares and can enjoy sound sleep. Rudraksha to be used along with citrine are one mukhi, 12 mukhi and 10 mukhi. 7. Garnet: Nowadays garnet is very popular and fashionable. Its look is crimson, smooth and beautiful. It belongs to Sun, so it is worn in place of ruby. By wearing it in a ring, pendant or necklace, the man’s fortune advances, health becomes stronger and the wearer gets honour and success. He will avoid immoral and illegal activities. It is also very beneficial for rheumatism, stops bleeding, cures diseases caused by formation of stones in the body, promotes vigour and vitality and acts as a sexual stimulant. Rudraksha to be worn is nine mukhi and 12 mukhi. 8. Goldstone: In Urdu, it is called sang-e-sitara, in Tamil lajavart and in Bengali taramandle. Its color is reddish-brown with shining golden spots. It is very delicate. Many beautiful things like mala, figures, Shivaling etc. can be made after cutting and chiseling the stone. Rudraksha to be worn is one mukhi and 12 mukhi. 9. Green jade: In Urdu it is called margay. It is a substitute for emerald. Jade is mainly found in green color. If children present this gem to their parents, their span of life increases. According to Chinese scholars, it increases wit and has a cooling effect on the eyes. It helps people in any debates. Greeks and Romans say that its wearer can never suffer from mental illnesses and diseases of the eyes. It is believed by all that this gem saves the wearer from diseases pertaining to heart, abdomen and kidney. Rudraksha to be worn is four mukhi and 11 mukhi. 10. Lodestone: It is a natural magnet stone, known as champak in Hindi. It is opaque, crimson coloured or black and without luster. Due to its magnetic power, it is very useful in blood- related diseases like paralysis, rheumatism, arthritis, etc. People can also use it to avoid the evil effects of Saturn. Rudraksha to be used is five mukhi, three mukhi, six mukhi and seven mukhi. 11. Lapis lazuli: It is blue black in colour with golden spots like that of a peacock’s throat. It can be worn in place of blue sapphire to save oneself from the effects of Saturn, Rahu and Ketu and contain problems at home or at job places. It should be worn by people above 50 years of age. It saves the wearer from diseases like urinary problems, tuberculosis, jaundice, diabetes and tiredness. It should be worn in a silver ring or as a pendant. Rudraksha to be used is seven mukhi, eight mukhi and 12 mukhi. 12. Malachite: This gem is also known as kidney stone. Its color is grayish green and has the shape of a kidney. This gem has the characteristics of good quality copper. It is beneficial in the prevention of rheumatism, abdominal and kidney diseases. It should be worn in a ring or in the neck. For relief from stones, pastes made out of it using rose water should be applied locally or the paste should be consumed. If there is stone in the kidney and doctors have advised surgery, then before undergoing the procedure a ring made of malachite should be worn or it should be tied around the waist. The surgery can be avoided as the stone itself will pass through urine. This fact is well-tested. 13. Moon stone: In Sanskrit, it is called godanti. It is opaque, having the color of milk. Its name itself denotes its relation with Moon. Since Moon relates with the mind, it is useful when the mind is inconsistent. Ladies and young children should wear it to strengthen their mind. It increases the eyesight of the wearer and gives marital happiness to the wearer. It also makes one’s thoughts pure. Rudraksha to be worn is two mukhi and Gauri shaker. 14. Opal: Among all the gems, it is the most beautiful and mysterious. It is as smooth as honey and the luster of various colors is seen in it. Its value increases with its coloured luster. It increases devotion to god and therefore it is most beneficial to yogis, saints and priests. It imparts renunciation and can also be worn in place of a diamond. Rudraksha to be used is five mukhi. Please note that Shastras prescribe that it should not be worn by householders. 15. Peridot: In ancient times, it was very popular but nowadays, it can be found with only great difficulty. It is smooth and shining. Its colour is like honey. It is mostly found in Myanmar, Norway, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, the U.S.A. It fulfils the wishes of the family and yearning for a son and brings in money and health. It is also helpful in removing evil effects, effects of black magic and spirits and can cure epilepsy and fear of snake bites. Rudraksha to be worn is four mukhi and 16 mukhi. 16. Serpentine: In Hindi, it is called shear mohair. It is light green in color. In ancient times, it was used to prepare utensils in which food was prepared and eaten. If the food is poisonous, the pots used to change color to yellow. Greeks still use this in their traditional medicines. Its wearer can never fall prey to diseases of the abdomen. Rudraksha to be worn is four mukhi and 11 mukhi. 17. Tourmaline: It consists of many substances. It simultaneously represents Mercury, Venus and Sun. It contains all the qualities of their gems -- emerald, diamond and ruby. It can be worn without any fear, as it never harms the wearer. It facilitates blood flow so that it can control the mind and improve the person’s mental abilities. It also imparts the quality of articulation. Children who are weak in studies or dull must wear it. Green and yellow tourmaline is beneficial for increasing knowledge and progress in trade, while white tourmaline is useful for actors, writers and those wanting name and fame. Rudraksha to be used is one mukhi, four mukhi, six mukhi or 17 mukhi. 18. Turquoise: Its color is sky blue or greenish blue. It contains phosphorus, aluminum, copper and some water. It shines after being polished. It is very delicate and can be easily spoiled with a little fire or water. Astrologically, it is related to Ketu and hence beneficial in case a man is affected by Ketu. Its wearer can never be poisoned. It is a must for those who go on adventurous journeys. Like a true friend, it saves the wearer from all kinds of problems and gives pleasure. In Russia, it is presented as a marriage ring. Its colour changes according to the changes in seasons. Since medieval times, it is believed that it destroys hatred and increases love. When a diseases is about to attack the wearer, its color variation warns us. 19. Onyx: It is found in many colors. It is a smooth stone. It is a substitute for emerald. It is beneficial in neck cramps as well as backache. It also helps in living a smooth and happy married life. It brings in purity of thoughts to the wearer. Rudraksha to be used is four mukhi and 17 mukhi. Quartz – rock crystal It is known as sphatik or billor in Persian. It is one of the most common minerals in the Earth’s crust. It is found in the shape of pencils, big and small pieces. Its color is white, like snow. It is transparent with luster, grace and smoothness. Its nature is cold. It is used for making idols, yantras and many other items. According to astrology, it is related to Venus. It is a substitute for diamond having the same qualities except that the price is substantially low. It can, therefore, be worn without hesitation. Nowadays, rock crystal has become very important because of its piezoelectric property. When crystal quartz is cut in an exact angle to its axis and subjected to mechanical pressure, it generates minute electrical charges at the end of the axes and the crystal expands and contracts, which sets it into constant mechanical vibration. This constant rate of vibration makes it useful for radio and television transmission, telephone and cable equipment, radar, depth sounding apparatus, antisubmarine devices, clocks, resonators, range making lances, prisms, and optical instruments. Quartz gems are popular among gem therapists because they produce electrochemical balance in the body chemistry of the wearer, remove anxiety and make one clam and concentrating. Using a rosary made from rock crystal aids concentration, cools the body and clams the mind. It is beneficial for gaining knowledge of the past, present and future, when used for concentration. Wearing a crystal mala ensures a sound and undisturbed sleep. In Hindu religion, there is great importance for crystal. It is believed that Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati (Shakti) live in this stone. Therefore, their statues are often built cutting and chiseling the crystal. There is no need to animate such statues and it is duly worthy to be worshipped. And that is why Shiva lingam or idols made of other stones are prohibited to be kept in the temple or at home. Without animation, the idols made of other stones are not used for religious rituals and prayers. Therefore, crystal has the honour to be worshipped. And that is why Shiva lingam, idols and Shree Yantra, etc. are made of it. Crystal garlands (mala) are used in counting mantras while worshipping Mahalakshmi, Durga, Saraswati and other goddess. Tripursundari yantra (Shree Yantra) carved in sphatik is considered to be the best of all. Prosperity and salvation are two different aims in human life and people meditating and worshipping using crystal Shree Yantra can have these aims accomplished without any other effort. Crystal beads are used for concentration (Tratak) and other devotional activities. The man who meditates by concentrating his mind on a crystal bead gets to know the entire future naturally. Therefore, it is a valuable and divine asset. All mukhi rudrakshas can be worn along with crystal. Astrological utility of gems All things of this universe are continuously in a tremulous state. They influence one another either more or less. Heavenly bodies in the solar system have special effect over creatures and other objects on Earth. This is a proven and recognized fact and is verified by many researches. Gems attract the rays of the heavenly bodies and divert these rays to the wearer and benefit him. For example, ruby attracts the rays of Sun: pearl of Moon; emerald that of Mercury; yellow sapphire that of Jupiter; diamond that of Venus and blue sapphire of Saturn. Therefore, in order to remove, diminish or overcome evil effects of the planets and to increase the power of the weak or inimical planets in one’s horoscope, gems are being worn since very ancient times. Nowadays, there is a strong interest in wearing lucky stones. The difference in the lucky stones of the western world and India is that Indians use lucky stones that correspond to their rashi (Moon sign of the zodiac) and as stated earlier, westerners use them according to their Sun sign. In the present context, descriptions given below are in terms of western astrology. In one, it is the month of birth and in the other it is the date of birth. Natives can choose their precious stones from the following chart, according to their birth month, if they do not know their exact date of birth Month of Birth Birth stone January July February August March September April October May November June Garnet Ruby Amethyst Peridot Aquamarine Sapphire / Amethyst Diamond Opal / Tourmaline Emerald Citrine / Topaz Moon stone December Turquoise / Lapis Lazuli People who do not have horoscopes, but know the date of birth, can use the following chart: Date of Birth Zodiac Birth Stone Day 21 March to 19 April Aries Ruby Sunday 20 April to 20 May Taurus Diamond / Emerald Thursday 21 May to 21 June Gemini Emerald / Pearl Monday 21 June to 22 July Cancer Ruby Emerald Thursday 23 July to 22 August Leo Ruby Sunday 23 August to 22 September Virgo Tourmaline / Carnelian Wednesday 23 September to 23 October Libra Citrine / Tourmaline Thursday 24 October to 21 November Scorpio Citrine / opal Thursday 22 November to 22 December Sagittarius Garnet / Turquoise Friday 23 December to 19 January Capricorn Blue Sapphire /Garnet Friday 20 January to 19 February Aquarius Amethyst / Jade Saturday 19 February to 20 March. Pisces Aquamarine / Amethyst Tuesday Gems according to lucky numbers Numerology is concerned with numbers. There is a series of nine numbers. After nine, the series repeats itself in the same order. In prescribing the gems, numerologists have not restricted themselves to numbers only but have tried to convert numerology into Astor numerology. Each of the nine numbers stand for one of the planets, for instance, the number one stands for Sun. Though numerology has its origins in the West, it is quite popular in India. According to the famous scholar and numerologist, Mr. P.N. Sherma, people can wear lucky stones according their lucky numbers of their birth dates. These gems are for the betterment of their fortunes. Number Master Stone 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Sun Moon Jupiter Sun/ Dragon’s head Mercury Venus Moon/ Dragon’s tail Saturn Mars Ruby Pearl Citrine Ruby / Gomed Jade Diamond Pearl / Cat’s Eye Blue Sapphire Carnelian How to find the lucky number :Date of Birth + Birth Month + Birth Year 15 (1+5) = 6 + 10 (1+0) = 1 + 1961 (1+9+6+1) = 17 6+1+17 = 24 (2+4) = 6 Thus, a person born on 15 October 1961 has the number six as his lucky number. Thus, you can find your lucky number. There are three ways to wear the gems. The system suggested above will be most suitable for those who follow the solar system (Sun sign). Those who follow the lunar system (Moon sign) can adopt any of the two following ways. The first way is to choose the gem according to the first letter of the name, which is generally pronounced and related to the native’s sign of the zodiac (rashi) as per the lunar system. The second way is to choose the precious stone according to one’s horoscope. The gems should be worn to pacify the evil effect of the weak or inimical planets and improve the good effects of the strong planets. First Letter of Name Zodiac Gemstone Chu, Che, Cho, La, Li Lu, Le, Lo, A Aries Coral Ee, Ai, U, O, Wa, Wi, Wu, Wee, Wo Taurus Diamond Ka, Ki, Ku, Gha, Anga, Cha, Kay, Ko, Ha Gemini Emerald He, Hu, Hay, Ho, Da Dee, Du, Day, Do Cancer Pearl Ma, mi, Mee, Mu, Mo Ta, Tee, Tu, Tay Leo Ruby To, Pa, pee, Pu, Sha Ana, Tha, Pay, Po Virgo Emerald Ra, Ree, Ru, Ray, Ro Ta, Tee, Tu, Te Libra Diamond Tao, Na, Nee, Nu, Nay No, Ya, Yee, You Scorpio Coral Yee, Yo, Bha, Bhu, Dha Pha, Udha, Bhay Sagittarius Yellow Sapphire Bho, Ja, Jee, Khee, Khu Khay, Kho, Gaa, Gee Capricorn Blue Sapphire Gu, Gay, Go, Saa, See, Su, Say, So, Daa Aquarius Blue Sapphire Dee, Du, Gha, Jha, Gyan Day, Do, Cha, Chee Pisces Yellow Sapphire Rahu Zircon (Gomed) Ketu Cat’s Eye To calm Saturn and Ketu, one may wear Lapis Lazuli, along with nine mukhi rudraksha. Important: For the best result, the gems should be bought on the day assigned to the planet to which they are related, i.e., ruby on Sunday, pearl on Monday, coral on Thursday, emerald on Wednesday, yellow sapphire on Thursday, diamond on Friday and blue sapphire, hessonite and cat’s eye on Saturday. They should be given to the jeweler on the same day. The ring or locket that is to be made should be made on that day; if not, at least the gem should be set on the same day as mentioned above. One should get the ring from the jeweler on the day related to the gem and its planet. The ring should be washed in milk and Ganga water and then worn on the same day. Some astrologers advise their clients to wear the rings of different gems on different fingers. As a general rule, the ring finger is the best for wearing rings, but as each finger is related to a planet, so the ring should be worn on the related finger. This belief is quite popular and some times we see people wearing rings on many fingers. There is also a distinction between the right and left hands -- right hand is solar and left hand lunar. Fingers and related stones Right hand: First or index finger (tarjani) yellow sapphire; second or middle finger (mahatma) blue sapphire, gomed, cat’s eye; Third or ring finger (anamika) for Sun ruby and for Mars coral and diamond; and fourth or small finger (kanishka) for Mercury emerald and for Moon pearl. It is very beneficial if you can wear a diamond on your right hand’s thumb. It can also be worn in the ring finger of the right hand. There are many other ways in which gems can be used in rings, lockets, chains or necklaces, nose pins, earring, amulets, pendulums and other objects.The gem should be open on its back side so that Sun’s rays may pass through the stone to the body easily. The use of navratnas (nine gems) A clear rule in wearing a ring is that the ring should be of a single precious stone or a set of nine precious stones (because the positions of nine planets go on continuously changing). The planets’ internal and innermost positions rapidly undergo changes. In such a condition, there is a rule to wear a ring, which is nine embedded precious stones related to nine planets should be worn to increases the power of planets and remove their evil effects. The ring of nine precious stones can be worn by a man with any sign of the zodiac. The wearer of a nine-gem ring will be bestowed with money, name and fame, glory, honour, sons, family and mental happiness. Calamitous situations are neutralized and the wearer gets rid of diseases and his life span increases. Nothing is said about the weight of the nine gems in a ring. If small gems are embedded in a ring, their effect is not felt soon. Big-sized precious stones that may be embedded in a pendant or a wrist chain or a bangle will show their effect soon. Therefore, any person can wear a ring of nine gems because they never harm the wearer. For pacifying the nine planets, malas of nine semi-precious gem are also available. They are cheaper than malas of nine precious stones but are effective too. This has proved to be beneficial in improving health and mental peace. One can wear navgraha malas without fear of any side effect. Gems therapy (healing with gemstones) The healing power of gems is not purely a superstition. If it were, oral administration of gems as oxides and powder would not be so widely and effectively practiced. India’s Ayurvedic system of medicine as well as the Greek traditional system, known as the Unani system in India, use gems. Practitioners of these systems have studied gems and their distinctive effects on the human organs, because gems are minerals in pure crystalline form and our body is composed of the same materials. Human body has seven primary colours of the solar spectrum -- violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange and red. Other hues and shades are derived by mixing one or two primary colours. When there is deficiency or absence of any one of theses primary colours in our body, we are attacked by diseases. For example, if red rays are absent, diseases like anemia, fever, inflammation, physical debility, weakness, loss of vitality etc. will affect our body. These diseases can be cured by injecting red rays into our body by wearing gems of red planets. The red planets are Sun and Mars. Their favorite gems are ruby and coral. When these gems come in contact with our body, they inject red rays into our body whereby deficiency is restored and we then become free from such diseases. The following table can be broadly followed in understanding diseases and gems and rudraksha to be used: Diseases Gems recommended Rudraksha 1. Acidity Emerald, yellow sapphire, gomed 3, 12 mukhi 2. Accidents Red coral, white coral to avert 2, 3, 11 mukhi 3. Anaemia Red coral, yellow sapphire 3, 5, 12 mukhi 4. Arthritis Red coral, yellow sapphire 7 mukhi, 5. Asthma Blue sapphire 6, 7 8 mukhi 6. Bladder problems Red coral, yellow sapphire 3, 6, 12 mukhi 7. Bronchitis Red coral 3, 6, 11 mukhi 8. Cancer Light blue sapphire, red coral 3, 6, 7, 12 mukhi 9. Common cold Red coral 3, 5 mukhi 10. Constipation Red coral 3, 5 mukhi 11. Diabetes Red coral, yellow sapphire 3, 5, 12 mukhi 12. Digestive disorders Emerald, yellow sapphire 3, 5 mukhi 13. Ear trouble Red coral, emerald 3, 6 mukhi 14. Eczema White coral, yellow sapphire 2, 3, 5, 6 mukhi 15. Epilepsy Emerald, moon stone 2, 4, 6 mukhi 16. Gall s tones Red coral, emerald 7, 4 mukhi 17. Goitre White coral, moon stone 2 mukhi, Gauri Shankar 18. Gonorrhea Red coral, moon stone 2, 3 mukhi 19. Gout (rheumatism) Red coral, yellow sapphire 2, 3, 5 mukhi 20. Heart ailments Emerald, yellow sapphire, moon stone 3, 5 , 11,12, 1 mukhi 21. Hernia Red coral, yellow sapphire 22. Blood pressure Emerald, yellow sapphire, blue sapphire 3, 5 mukhi 23. Hysteria Red coral, moon stone 2, 3, 5, 6 mukhi 24. Impotency diamond, yellow sapphire, red coral 3, 5, 6, 13 mukhi 6, 12 mukhi The recommendation of rudraksha is based on astrological correlations of these beads and not necessarily the beads’ curative powers as described in Chapter 5.