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Hessonite

Hessonite is called Rahu Ratna or Gomedak in Sanskrit and Gomed in Hindi. Hessonite is worn to provide extra strength to Rahu. This gemstone transfers energy of Rahu into the body of the wearer and through such energy, Rahu may gain extra strength in his horoscope as well as in his aura.

Looking at the composition of this gemstone, Hessonite belongs to the family of garnet. Hessonite is available in different colors and shades of Orange Brown; ranging from light Orange Brown, medium dark Orange Brown to dark Orange Brown. The color and clarity of this gemstone are two important aspects to look for when purchasing Hessonite.

Depending on the overall horoscopes, different colours of Hessonite may be suitable for different natives. Some may benefit more by wearing dark Hessonites whereas some others may benefit more by wearing light ones. Appropriate weight of this gemstone is an important factor. Different weights may be suitable for different natives, depending on their overall horoscopes. In general, weights between 3 and 6 carats of this gemstone are suitable for most people.

Rahu represents brother-in-law, father-in-law, intuition, psychic perception, mysteries, illusions, cleverness, corruptions, perversions, sudden gains or losses, crime, drugs, prostitution, gambling, various types of addictions, compulsive behaviour patterns, unfortunate events, accidents, diseases, delays, losses, destruction and many other things.

Though this gemstone may produce good results when Rahu is benefic in the horoscope of the wearer, it may cause serious problems when Rahu is malefic in the horoscope of the wearer. Hence care should be taken when wearing Hessonite. In general, most natives may not be able to handle the energy of Hessonite; even when Rahu is benefic in their horoscopes. Hence this gemstone should be worn under the supervision of an astrologer.

When buying Hessonite, you should get a lab test report with it. The report should mention ‘Natural Hessonite’ along with other details. This tells you that the Hessonite has been made through natural processes and it is not fake.

Hessonite is generally worn on the Middle or Little finger of right hand in Silver or Gold. However, based on a native’s requirements as well as on his overall horoscope, it may be worn on some other finger or in a pendant or bracelet.

Vedic astrology recommends practicing some procedures before wearing Hessonite. They include purification and energization of this gemstone. Since these procedures have already been discussed in the chapter for Ruby; we’ll skip them and move on.

Once you’ve got your duly purified (optional) and energized (optional) Hessonite, fitted in a ring, pendant or bracelet; the next step is to wear it. Vedic astrology recommends that Hessonite should be worn on a Saturday morning, when wearing it for the first time. Before wearing Hessonite for the first time, you should put the ring, pendant or bracelet in Gangajal (water of Holy River Ganga) or in a mixture of unboiled milk and pure water for about 12 hours prior to wearing it. This means you should do so on a Friday evening so that you may wear it on the following Saturday morning.

You should take bath on the chosen Saturday morning, sit or stand in front of the ring, pendant or bracelet and you should chant Mool Mantra or Beej mantra of Rahu for 108 times or 27 times. After doing so, you should take the Hessonite ring, Pendant or bracelet and you should rinse it with clean water, in case you had put it in a mixture of unboiled milk and water. You should then wipe it with a clean cloth and wear it.

If you had put it in Gangajal, simply wipe it with a clean cloth and wear it. In case you’ve got it purified through Vedic procedures, you don’t need to put it in Gangajal or a mixture of unboiled milk and water. In such case, simply keep it at a clean place after purification and wear it on the chosen morning after chanting Mantras.

For the sake of convenience, here are Mool Mantra and Beej Mantra of Rahu:

Rahu Mool Mantra: Om Raahve Namah

Rahu Beej Mantra: Om Bhraam Bhreem Bharaum Sah Raahve Namah

You may wear your Hessonite anytime between 6 AM to 11 AM in the morning, when wearing it for the first time. Though more specific details about timing may be obtained specifically based on your horoscope; they may not be needed. Once you have worn it, you may keep wearing it permanently; unless you’re asked to wear it for a specific period of time. If you wish or need; you may take off this gemstone for an hour or two as that may not compromise the results given by this gemstone.

However, removing Hessonite for days and months may gradually reverse the effects given by this gemstone. Hence this practice should be avoided.

Himanshu Shangari

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Cat’s Eye

Cat’s Eye is called Ketu Ratna or Vaidoorya in Sanskrit and Lahsuniya in Hindi. Cat’s Eye is worn to provide extra strength to Ketu. This gemstone transfers energy of Ketu into the body of the wearer and through such energy, Ketu may gain extra strength in his horoscope as well as in his aura.

Looking at the composition of this gemstone, Cat’s Eye is available in different colors and shades ranging from green to yellow to brown. The color and clarity of this gemstone are two important aspects to look for when purchasing Cat’s Eye.

Depending on the overall horoscopes, different colours of Cat’s Eye may be suitable for different natives. Appropriate weight of this gemstone is an important factor. Different weights may be suitable for different natives, depending on their overall horoscopes. In general, weights between 3 and 6 carats of this gemstone are suitable for most people.

Ketu represents spiritual growth, the occult, paranormal, psychic perception, mysteries, corruptions, detachment, depression, delays, losses, destruction, unfortunate events and diseases among other things.

Though this gemstone may produce good results when Ketu is benefic in the horoscope of the wearer, it may cause serious problems when Ketu is malefic in the horoscope of the wearer. Hence care should be taken when wearing Cat’s Eye. In general, most natives may not be able to handle the energy of Cat’s Eye; even when Ketu is benefic in their horoscopes. Hence this gemstone should be worn under the supervision of an astrologer.

When buying Cat’s Eye, you should get a lab test report with it. The report should mention ‘Natural Cat’s Eye’ along with other details. This tells you that the Cat’s Eye has been made through natural processes and it is not fake.

Cat’s Eye is generally worn on the Ring finger of right hand in Copper or Gold. However, based on a native’s requirements as well as on his overall horoscope, it may be worn on some other finger or in a pendant or bracelet.

Vedic astrology recommends practicing some procedures before wearing Cat’s Eye. They include purification and energization of this gemstone. Since these procedures have already been discussed in the chapter for Ruby; we’ll skip them and move on.

Once you’ve got your duly purified (optional) and energized (optional) Cat’s Eye, fitted in a ring, pendant or bracelet; the next step is to wear it. Vedic astrology recommends that Cat’s Eye should be worn on a Tuesday morning, when wearing it for the first time. Before wearing Cat’s Eye for the first time, you should put the ring, pendant or bracelet in Gangajal (water of Holy River Ganga) or in a mixture of unboiled milk and pure water for about 12 hours prior to wearing it. This means you should do so on a Monday evening so that you may wear it on the following Tuesday morning.

You should take bath on the chosen Tuesday morning, sit or stand in front of the ring, pendant or bracelet and you should chant Mool Mantra or Beej mantra of Ketu for 108 times or 27 times. After doing so, you should take the Cat’s Eye ring, Pendant or bracelet and you should rinse it with clean water, in case you had put it in a mixture of unboiled milk and water. You should then wipe it with a clean cloth and wear it.

If you had put it in Gangajal, simply wipe it with a clean cloth and wear it. In case you’ve got it purified through Vedic procedures, you don’t need to put it in Gangajal or a mixture of unboiled milk and water. In such case, simply keep it at a clean place after purification and wear it on the chosen morning after chanting Mantras.

For the sake of convenience, here are Mool Mantra and Beej Mantra of Ketu:

Ketu Mool Mantra: Om Ketve Namah

Ketu Beej Mantra: Om Straam Streem Straum Sah Ketve Namah

You may wear your Cat’s Eye anytime between 6 AM to 11 AM in the morning, when wearing it for the first time. Though more specific details about timing may be obtained specifically based on your horoscope; they may not be needed. Once you have worn it, you may keep wearing it permanently; unless you’re asked to wear it for a specific period of time. If you wish or need; you may take off this gemstone for an hour or two as that may not compromise the results given by this gemstone.

However, removing Cat’s Eye for days and months may gradually reverse the effects given by this gemstone. Hence this practice should be avoided.

Himanshu Shangari

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Gemstones and Debilitated Planets

This theory states that gemstones should never be worn for debilitated planets since they are always malefic. As already mentioned, the placement of a planet in a sign is more a measure of its physical strength than that of its functional nature in a horoscope. Hence gemstones for debilitated planets may be worn; provided such planets are benefic in a horoscope under consideration. In fact, benefic debilitated planets are often the ones which may need attention on urgent basis, in most cases. Let’s take an example to understand this concept in a better manner.

Suppose debilitated Moon is placed in the first house of a horoscope in Scorpio. Moon rules the ninth house in this horoscope and it is highly benefic. However due to debilitation, it is weak. Hence the native may face problems related to general as well as specific significances of Moon. It means the native may suffer from problems related to emotional disturbances, psychological issues, spiritual growth, education and luck factor among other things.

Hence the native may not perform well in studies and he may be emotionally weak which may make him susceptible to psychological problems. The native may also witness that time and again, his efforts may not bring desired fruit. This is because the luck factor goes weak due to weakness of Moon. Hence Pearl may help this native a lot in this case. As the native wears Pearl, Moon may gain strength and it may start doing its job in a better way. As a result, the native may witness better results related to education, emotional wellbeing, spiritual growth and luck factor.

Likewise, gemstones for other debilitated planets may also be worn; if they are benefic and they tend to restore balance in the horoscope. At times, a benefic debilitated planet may get stuck in a difficult situation. In such cases; its gemstone should be recommended; only after carefully analysing the overall horoscope or else; it may cause problems.

Taking an example, suppose benefic debilitated Moon is placed in the eighth house of a horoscope in Scorpio along with malefic Rahu. Moon is debilitated, it is corrupted by Rahu and the eighth house is a difficult to handle house. If Moon gains strength through Pearl in this case, battles may begin between Moon and Rahu as well as between Moon and the eighth house. The initial disturbances created by such battles may be too much to handle for the native since Moon is already weak and the eighth house is a very sensitive house. Hence Pearl should not be worn in this case; unless the overall horoscope gives the native the strength to bear problems created by such battle and win it.

Himanshu Shangari

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Gemstones and Sun Signs

The awareness about the use of gemstones has increased among people over the years. Hence more and more people have started wearing gemstones. Some of them have witnessed good results whereas some others have faced negative effects and losses by wearing certain gemstones.

Negative effects are generally caused if gemstones for malefic planets are worn, though gemstones for mixed planets can also cause problems. Though gemstone for suitable benefic planets may produce good or very good results; those for malefic planets may create serious problems.

For this reason, the use of gemstones is a practice which should be carried out with great care. At times, an astrologer may end up recommending an unsuitable gemstone to a native; as he may not be able to properly understand native’s horoscope. In some other cases; people may wear gemstones on their own; after reading some content related to gemstones on various types of media.

The web in particular is full of a number of theories related to which gemstones are suitable for various natives; usually belonging to a specific class. It means such theories divide people into different classes on the basis of certain criterion. After that, all natives belonging to the same class are recommended to wear the same gemstone or gemstones.

If there’s one thing about horoscopes; it is the fact that each one of them is unique in its own way. Hence no two horoscopes may be the same though they may look similar at times. Since every horoscope is unique and it has its own theme; the practice of recommending gemstones by dividing people into classes may often end up causing more problems than benefits. Let’s discuss some of the prevalent theories which divide people into classes on account of different reasons and they recommend the same gemstone or gemstones to all people in a particular class.

A school of thought says that gemstones may be worn on the basis of Sun signs. This theory states that Sun is the most important planet in a horoscope. Accordingly, the lord of the sign of placement of Sun in a horoscope carries great importance. Hence the gemstone for such planet is suitable for the native. Taking an example, if Sun is placed in Aries; the gemstone for Mars (Red Coral) which rules Aries; is suitable for the native.

The primary reason behind such practice seems to be the fact that it is one of the most convenient ways to recommend gemstones. It is so simple and convenient that even horoscope is not required in most cases. Sun spends about a month in each sign, during its transitory movement. Hence Sun completes one cycle of transit through 12 signs in a year. Since it follows the same predictable pattern again and again; the Sun sign of a native may be guessed without much trouble.

In general, Sun leaves one sign and it enters into the next one; between 14^th and 16^th of every month. On 14 or 15 April, Sun enters Aries, in general. This is when the Vedic New Year begins. This day is celebrated as a festival in many parts of India. Whenever Sun enters a sign; that particular day is called Sakranti (transmigration of Sun from one sign to the next) in India.

Hence we have a broad idea that Sun transits through Aries between 14 April and 14 May. It means most natives born during this period every year; have Aries as their Sun sign. Likewise, most natives born between 15 May and 14 June have their Sun sign as Taurus. This trend continues like this and most natives born between 15 March and 14 April have their Sun sign as Pisces.

Hence it is easy to tell from the date of birth; which Sun sign you may belong to. The lord of such Sun sign is considered to be benefic for all such natives; born during a specific set of dates. Hence they are recommended to wear gemstone for such planetary lord. This way, all natives are divided into 12 categories, based on Sun signs and every native in a specific group is supposed to benefit by wearing the same gemstone.

It may be a convenient theory but it may create serious problems. Every planet among navagraha may change its functional nature, hundreds of times during a month. It means that the lord of Sun sign may also do so. Hence wearing gemstones based on this theory may prove harmful or very harmful. Let’s take an example to understand this concept in a better way.

Suppose a malefic combination of exalted Sun and Mars is placed in the eighth house of a horoscope in Aries. Virgo rises in the ascendant. Since Sun is placed in Aries; the gemstone for Mars (Red Coral) should be benefic for the native and this recommendation may be made; even without preparing a horoscope.

In reality; both Sun and Mars are malefic in this horoscope; they are very strong and they are placed in one of the most difficult houses of horoscope; the eighth house. This malefic combination of Sun and Mars poses direct threat to native’s life. Hence the native may die young in an accident or he may get killed; depending on his overall horoscope. If the native wears Red Coral; the threat to his lifespan may become even more prominent. As a result, he may suffer from serious accidents, limb loss, diseases, surgeries, organ loss, financial losses and a number of other problems; apart from sudden death.

Such extreme example has been chosen to have an idea as to how destructive this practice may be. Hence this practice should be avoided and gemstones should be recommended; only for suitable benefic planets; after proper analysis of horoscope.

Himanshu Shangari

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Gemstones and Moon Signs

It is a similar type of belief with the only difference that in this case; gemstones for planetary lords of Moon signs are recommended. This theory states that Moon is the most important planet in a horoscope, which is true in general. Hence the planetary lord of Moon sign is always benefic for native; which may or may not be true, depending on the overall horoscope of a native under consideration.

Taking an example, if Moon is placed in Aquarius in a horoscope; Saturn becomes the lord of Moon sign. Accordingly, Blue Sapphire is suitable for all natives having Aquarius as their Moon sign. Moon spends about 2 and a half days in each sign, on average. Within this period of time; the lord of Moon sign may change its functional nature; dozens of times. Hence wearing gemstones based on this theory may prove harmful or very harmful. Let’s take an example to understand this concept in a better way.

Suppose a malefic combination of Moon and Saturn is placed in the twelfth house of a horoscope in Aquarius. Pisces rises in the ascendant. Moon represents the fifth house and Saturn represents the eleventh and twelfth house in this horoscope. Saturn is highly malefic in this case. Moon is benefic but it is troubled by malefic Saturn as well as by the twelfth house. Saturn is much stronger than Moon in Aquarius. Hence the overall combination in the twelfth house is led by Saturn; which means it becomes malefic.

Due to strong malefic influence of Saturn; Moon may also turn partly malefic. If the native wears Blue Sapphire; Saturn may gain more strength. Hence the overall combination may become even more malefic. As a result, the native may face serious problems related to the general significances of Moon as well as those related to the significances of the fifth and twelfth house. It means the native may face problems related to mental and emotional health; mother, love life, children, addictions, vices and a number of other problems.

In an extreme case of this type; the native may become literally insane and he may have to spend significant amount of time in a mental asylum. For example, if both Moon and Saturn are placed in Shatabhisha nakshatra within the sign of Aquarius; the native may go insane after wearing Blue Sapphire; unless there are strong benefic planets in his horoscope, which may counteract this effect. Even then; the native may suffer from serious psychological problems.

Looking at another serious problem, the native may become a drug addict and he may face serious problems due to such addiction. Prolonged use of Blue Sapphire may cause significant damage to the health of the native; through drug abuse. Hence this practice should be avoided and gemstones should be recommended; only for suitable benefic planets; after proper analysis of horoscope.

Himanshu Shangari

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Gemstones and Birth Nakshatras

This theory is similar to that of Moon signs. The only difference is that gemstones for the planetary rulers of birth nakshatras (nakshatras of placements of Moon in birth chart) are recommended. This theory states that Moon nakshatra is the most auspicious nakshatra in a horoscope. Accordingly, the ruling planet of such nakshatra is always benefic for the native.

Taking an example, if Moon is placed in Moola nakshatra in a horoscope, it become the birth nakshatra of native. Hence Ketu being the ruler of Moola becomes the lord of birth nakshatra. It means that the gemstone for Ketu (Cat’s Eye) is suitable for the native; since Ketu is benefic for him. In reality, Ketu may be benefic, malefic or highly malefic for the native; based on his overall horoscope. Hence wearing gemstones based on this theory may prove harmful or very harmful. Let’s take an example to understand this concept in a better way.

Suppose a combination of malefic Moon and malefic Ketu is placed in the first house of a horoscope in Sagittarius. Suppose Moon is placed in the first quarter of Moola nakshatra and Ketu is also placed in Moola nakshatra. Moon forms Gandmool Dosh in first quarter for Moola nakshatra. This defect may prove troublesome for native’s health and lifespan; as well as for those of his mother and father.

Moon rules the eighth house in this horoscope, which deals with accidents, surgeries, lifespan and death among other things. Since both these planets are malefic; they may afflict the first house; thereby causing threat to native’s lifespan. Apart from that; both Moon and Ketu afflict each other. The affliction from Ketu to Moon may prove more troublesome. This is because Moon in general is the most important planet among navagraha and it represents a sensitive house (eighth) in this horoscope.

If the native wears Cat’s Eye; it poses direct threat to his health and lifespan; among other serious problems. Hence the native may get seriously injured in an accident, he may face serious health issues or he may face other types of serious problems; depending on his overall horoscope. In an extreme case of this type; the native may get killed in a bomb blast or in another unfortunate incident; due to increased strength of Ketu.

Let’s take another example. Suppose Moon is placed in Uttaraphalguni nakshatra in a horoscope. Sun rules this nakshatra. Hence the native may be recommended to wear Ruby. Suppose malefic Sun is placed in the sixth house of this horoscope along with malefic Venus and benefic Mercury in Leo.

This combination is very troublesome and it may create a number of problems for the native. It may prove destructive for the sphere for marriage, particularly for that of a male native. Both Venus as well as Mercury (lord of the seventh house) are afflicted and this combination is placed in a difficult house.

Wearing Ruby in this case may aggravate problems related to marriage; along with other problems. As a result, the native may witness two, three or more broken marriages; depending on his overall horoscope. Even in case of female natives; wearing Ruby can cause serious problems related to marriage, children and health among other problems. Hence this practice should be avoided and gemstones should be recommended; only for suitable benefic planets; after proper analysis of horoscope.

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Gemstones and Numerology

This theory recommends gemstones on the basis of dates of birth and names. Let’s understand basic things about numerology, in order to understand this concept in a better way. Different numbers are assigned to navagraha where Sun rules 1, Moon rules 2, Jupiter rules 3, Rahu rules 4, Mercury rules 5, Venus rules 6, Ketu rules 7, Saturn rules 8 and Mars rules 9.

If a native is born on 1, 10, 19 or 28 of any month; Ruby is recommended to him. This is because when we add 1 and 0 in 10, we get 1 which is ruled by Sun. Likewise when we add 1 and 9 in 19, we get 10 and when we further reduce it to a single digit number by adding 1 and 0; we get 1, ruled by Sun. The same holds in case of 28 and it also gives 1 when reduced to a single digit number through addition.

Likewise, if a native is born on 2, 11, 20 or 29 of any month; Pearl is recommended to him since we get 2 by reducing each one of these numbers to a single digit number; and 2 is ruled by Moon. The same process is followed for all other planets among navagraha.

At times, complete date of birth is considered; instead of considering the day of month only. It means that the month and year are also used for calculation. Taking an example, if a native is born on 15 November 1975; we reduce 15, 11 and 1975 to a single digit number through addition. Doing this calculation gives us; 1+5+1+1+1+9+7+5 = 30 which further gives us 3+0 = 3. Hence we get number three ruled by Jupiter. Accordingly, Yellow Sapphire is recommended to the native.

The name number is also used by some, to recommend gemstones through numerology. In this case, the name is written in English. The number corresponding to each alphabet from A to Z, used in such name is obtained; all these numbers are added and reduced to a single digit number. Taking an example, Diana is converted into a number as 4+9+1+14+1 = 29 which is further reduced to 2+9 = 11 which is further reduced to 1+1= 2. Hence the birth number is 2 and Pearl is recommended.

During all these recommendations, no consideration may be paid to the functional nature of planets in the horoscopes of the natives. Hence gemstones recommended through this theory may end up causing serious problems for the native. Let’s take an example to understand this concept in a better manner.

Suppose a native is born on 9^th of any month. Mars rules this number and hence, Red Coral is recommended to the native. Suppose in the horoscope of this native; Mas is placed in the eighth house in Aries. Virgo rises in the ascendant and Mars rules the third and eighth house. Hence it becomes highly malefic. It is strong in Aries and it is placed in the eighth house which is a difficult and troublesome house.

As Mars gains strength through Red Coral; the native may suffer from accidents, diseases, limb loss, organ loss, tumors, unfortunate events, professional problems and a number of other problems. In an extreme case of this type when Mars is supported by other malefic planets; wearing Red Coral may get the native killed in an accident, through a fatal disease or the native may get murdered. Hence gemstones should not be recommended on the basis of numerology and due consideration should be paid to the important factors in horoscope; already mentioned in earlier chapters.

Himanshu Shangari

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Navagraha Gemstone Pendant

This theory states that wearing a pendant that contains gemstones for all planets among navagraha may fix all problems of any native. The theory operates on the basis that the energy provided by all gemstones will strengthen all planets in horoscope. Hence balance may be restored in the horoscope and the native may witness benefits in every sphere of his life. Let’s take an example to understand this concept in a better manner.

Suppose a malefic combination of Mars, Moon, Venus and Rahu is placed in the first house of a horoscope in Sagittarius and a combination of debilitated Sun and Mercury is placed in the eleventh house in Libra. Malefic Ketu is placed in the seventh house in Gemini, benefic Jupiter is placed in the fourth house in Pisces and Saturn is placed in the second house in Capricorn in Leo navamsha of Dhanishtha nakshatra.

The first house is seriously afflicted by four malefic planets. Moon being the lord of the eighth house is seriously afflicted by Mars, Venus and Rahu. Though this type of horoscope can literally cause hundreds of serious problems; the most serious one of them is caused to the lifespan of the native. It is only due to strong placements of Jupiter and Saturn that the native may survive beyond his age of 20 years or else; such native may die any time after his birth; depending on the finer factors.

As the native wears navagraha gemstone pendant; malefic Moon, Venus, Mars and Rahu gain strength along with other planets. As a result, the quantum of problems posed by this malefic combination may increase further; and the native may not be able to survive beyond his age of 15 years; assuming he wears such pendant around 10 years of age. If the native wears such pendant around his age of 20, he may not survive beyond the age of 25.

Let’s look at the balanced approach in this case. The native should wear Yellow Sapphire, Ruby and Emerald to provided strength to Jupiter, Sun and Mercury. Since Saturn is partly malefic in the horoscope, Blue Sapphire should be avoided. These gemstones combined with other astrological remedies may add 10, 20 or 30 years to this native’s life. Hence he may live up to the age of 55 or 60; despite having such troublesome horoscope.

As already mentioned, gemstones can only provide strength to their corresponding planets and they can’t change their functional nature in horoscope. In order to reduce negativity of malefic planets in a horoscope; remedies like Poojas and donations are used. Stronger and more malefic a planet is in a horoscope; more effort and more time may be required to significantly reduce its negativity. In general, it may take 5 to 15 years to significantly reduce negativity of a malefic planet through Poojas and donations.

Back to the main topic; Navagraha Gemstone Pendant is one remedy which may create problems for almost every native in the world. This is because everyone has malefic planets in his or her horoscope. As these planets gain strength through their gemstones fitted in this pendant; they may start causing problems with more intensity. Hence such pendant should not be worn.

Himanshu Shangari

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The detailed version of this article is featured in the book ‘Gemstones – Magic or Science? (Revised Edition).

Gemstones and Exalted Planets

This theory states that if a planet is exalted in a horoscope, it is always benefic for the native. Hence the gemstone for such planet should be worn by the native, in order to receive more benefits from such exalted planet.

Taking an example, if Jupiter is exalted in a horoscope, it means Yellow Sapphire is suitable for the native. Jupiter is exalted in the sign of Cancer. On average, Jupiter stays in a sign for about 1 year. It means Jupiter remains benefic for all people born during such year. Like all other planets among navagraha, Jupiter may change its functional nature, thousands of times in a year.

Accordingly, it may be benefic, malefic or highly malefic for one such native. Hence wearing gemstones based on this theory may prove harmful or very harmful. Let’s take an example to understand this concept in a better way.

Suppose exalted Jupiter is placed in the third house of a horoscope in Cancer. Taurus rises in the ascendant and Jupiter is malefic in this horoscope. Hence wearing Yellow Sapphire may create a number of serious problems for the native; especially those related to profession and siblings.

Even when an exalted planet is benefic in a horoscope, its gemstone may not be suitable for the native. As already discussed, a horoscope is all about balance. Hence it is not a one-planet-show and it is teamwork. An exalted planet is already as strong as it can be. Hence it may not need extra strength, unless it is afflicted due to conjunction with one or more than one malefic planet.

If more strength is provided to an exalted planet; it may create imbalance in the horoscope. Such imbalance may create a number of problems for the native; depending on his overall horoscope. Let’s take an example to understand this concept in a better manner.

Suppose benefic exalted Mercury forms Bhadra Yoga in the first house of a horoscope in Virgo. Mercury rules the first as well as tenth house in this horoscope; and it is highly benefic in the horoscope. However, due to its placement in the first house in its own sign; it may influence the entire horoscope as well as the entire personality of the native; more than it should. As a result; the native may have an imbalanced personality, if the rest of his horoscope is not supportive in a specific way. Let’s try to understand how this imbalance may be created.

Mercury represents cleverness, intellect, logic, reasoning, analytical abilities, speech, communication, mathematical skills and a number of other characteristics. Since Mercury is exalted and it is placed in the first house; the overall personality of this native may be influenced much more by these characteristics, than by those rendered by any other planet.

Intellect and logic are ruled by Mercury. They are balanced by emotions and faith. Emotions are ruled by Moon and faith is ruled by Jupiter. Intellect can help us achieve so much in many spheres; especially those related to technical and mechanical advancement. Hence it may prove beneficial for mathematicians, engineers, scientists, architects and a number of other professionals who need intellect to achieve more and more.

Hence intellect may prove as a blessing as long as you’re dealing in spheres which require its application, like the ones mentioned earlier. However, there are spheres where intellect may create more problems than the benefits it may produce. The spheres like relationships and spiritual growth are the ones where intellect may cause serious damage.

Relationships do best when handled with emotions and faith. They may perform poorly or miserably when handled with mental aggression or physical aggression. For this reason; Mars and Mercury are not fit for spheres like relationships. Hence it is easy to understand why a planet like Mars may form Manglik Dosh, among all planets.

When it comes to relationships; intellect tries to understand, change and predict people so that it may be in control. Hence it may try to learn more and more about the ones in close relationships. For example, a native under strong influence of Mercury like in the present case; may keep analysing every action, statement, gesture and characteristic of his wife and children, so that he may understand them in better manner. After that, he may try to change such actions and characteristics of theirs; which he is not comfortable with.

As a result; native’s wife may start counteracting the native and she may highlight some of his habits or interests which may not be good. This practice may lead to frequent arguments and they may spoil the relationship. Depending on her overall personality; native’s wife may not choose to confront him and she may rather choose not to listen to him. In this case; silence may develop between the couple and it may spoil the relationship; as the wife may not be interested in interacting with the native, unless absolutely necessary.

The native may do the same to his children also. He may keep telling them what is good for them and what is bad. He may try to convince them to be the kind of people he wants them to be. If he fails to convince them, he may use mental aggression to make them understand; just like in case of his wife. The result may be the same in this case also. It means that with time; his children may start confronting him or they may choose not to listen to him and maintain their distances. Hence the native may keep trying to change them but no one may listen to him. This way, he may end up spoiling his family life.

What this native needs are emotions and faith, in order to balance the intellectual part of his personality. In the present case, suppose benefic exalted Moon is placed in the ninth house in Taurus and benefic Jupiter is placed in the fourth house in Sagittarius. When that happens; the native may have fair share of emotions and faith; along with intellect. Hence he may be capable of using intellect where it is needed; like in professional spheres. At the same time; he may choose to use more of emotions and faith when it comes to the sphere of relationships.

Looking at the opposite side of this equation; too much faith or too many emotions with little intellect may also prove troublesome, though in a different way. The native in this case may fail to provide logical guidance to his children; as and when they need it. He may also be poor at financial management since this sphere is generally taken care of; by intellect. The native may also face problems in professional sphere since he may rely too much on unrealistic hopes instead of using logic and reasoning. Hence he may face losses and problems due to lack of reasoning and excess of optimism.

Therefore, a balanced mixture of intellect, emotions and faith is required so that they may complement one another. Likewise, for all characteristics represented by various planets among navagraha, there are seemingly opposite but complementary characteristics. A balanced mixture of them helps in creating and maintaining harmony in a horoscope as well as in native’s life.

Let’s consider a different type of horoscope to understand this concept from another angle. Suppose a malefic combination of benefic exalted Mercury, malefic Saturn and malefic Ketu is placed in the second house of a horoscope in Virgo, Venus is placed in the third house in Libra and benefic Sun is placed in the first house in Leo. Suppose benefic Mars is placed in the fifth house in Sagittarius, Moon is placed in the eighth house in Pisces along with Rahu; and exalted Jupiter is placed in the twelfth house in Cancer.

The equation is quite different in this case. Sun, Venus, Mars and Jupiter are strong in the horoscope. However, Mercury is weak due to affliction from Saturn and Ketu. Apart from that; the overall theme of the horoscope doesn’t support Mercury much. Saturn is also afflicted by malefic Ketu.

Though Mercury is exalted; the native may face problems related to speech, communication, intellectual abilities, finances and a number of other problems. Mercury rules the second and eleventh house in this horoscope and both of them are important for overall financial equation.

Since Sun, Venus and Mars are strong in this horoscope; their gemstones may not be required. Hence an Emerald is the first gemstone that should be recommended in this case. As the native wears an Emerald; Mercury may gain strength and it may fight afflictions from Saturn and Ketu. Hence the native may witness better results related to speech, communication, intellectual abilities and finances; among other things.

So far, we have discussed two probabilities for exalted Mercury and in both these cases; Mercury is benefic. However, Mercury or any other planet may be exalted but malefic in a horoscope. In such case, the gemstone for such planet should not be worn. When a planet is malefic and exalted in a horoscope; it may already be doing so much damage in it. The last thing you want is to give it more strength so that it may cause even more damage. Let’s take an example to understand this concept in a better manner.

Suppose, exalted Mars is placed in the fifth house of a horoscope in Capricorn. Virgo rises in the ascendant and Mars is malefic as well as very strong in the horoscope. Since it is placed in the fifth house, it may primarily cause serious problems related to love life, children, creativity and spiritual growth. As a result, the native may witness more than one failed love affair; depending on his overall horoscope. Apart from that, he may face problems related to other spheres represented by the fifth house.

Such placement of malefic exalted Mars may prove much more troublesome in the horoscope of a female native; compared to a male native. The fifth house deals with children and female natives may face problems related to children; which may be higher in number as well as quantum; compared to those faced by male natives.

The native may not be able to conceive and deliver properly. She may suffer from more than one abortion, merely because of such malefic placement of Mars; unless there are compensating factors in her horoscope. In an extreme case of this type; the native may face serious medical complications during delivery and she may even die; if the rest of her horoscope is also malefic in a specific way. The native may also face problems related to love life. She may get pregnant through a love affair and her lover may refuse to marry her as well as assume responsibility of the child.

The last thing this native should do is wear Red Coral, since doing so may provide even more strength to Mars which is already very strong. Hence the quantum of problems caused by it may increase and the native may suffer even more. Therefore, gemstones should not be worn for exalted planets when they are malefic in horoscope.

In most cases; there is no need to wear gemstones for exalted planets; even if they are highly benefic. As already explained, an exalted planet is already very strong and it may not need extra strength. On the other hand, it may need certain specific planets to be strong so that the overall balance in horoscope may be achieved.

Taking an example, suppose benefic exalted Mars forms Ruchaka Yoga in the first house of a horoscope in Capricorn. Mars is very strong and it is placed in the first house, which gives it more dominance over other planets in the horoscope. Hence Red Coral may not be a good choice in this case; unless Mars is seriously afflicted by a malefic planet. The horoscope may rather do well; if planets like Saturn, Moon and Venus are strong, so that they may maintain balance.

If one of these planets is benefic but weak; the native should wear its gemstone so that the horoscope may work in a better manner. For example, if benefic exalted Venus is placed in the third house of this horoscope in Pisces along with malefic exalted Ketu; the native should wear White Sapphire. Though both these planets are exalted in Pisces; Ketu may be stronger than Venus in this sign; depending on navamsha placements of both planets within the sign of Pisces.

Hence the native may need to strengthen such exalted but seriously afflicted Venus so that the horoscope may work in a better manner. As Venus gains strength; it may add more care, concern, fairness and sense of equality to the personality of the native. Since Mars is all about dominance and it may not care about these characteristics; they may prove useful for the native. The native in this case may have reduced tendency to misuse strength and aggression rendered by Mars. Likewise, the gemstone for Saturn may also be worn if needed as well as suited; based on the overall horoscope.

A horoscope may feature billions of probable placements and combinations of planets. The sum total of all these placements as well as their mutual interactions forms the overall theme of horoscope. Such theme should be assessed first. Whichever part is lacking, the same should be strengthened through appropriate gemstone; if there is one.

We don’t need to work on our strengths since they are already there. We need to work on our weaknesses as they make us fail and suffer. Hence un-afflicted exalted planets may not need more strength through gemstones even when they are benefic; in most cases. It is the weaker or afflicted but benefic planets; which may need more strength through gemstones.

Himanshu Shangari

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The detailed version of this article is featured in the book ‘Gemstones – Magic or Science? (Revised Edition).

Gemstones for Opposing Planets

This theory states that gemstones for two opposing planets should not be worn simultaneously; even if both of them are benefic in a horoscope. The term ‘opposing planets’ refers to the planets which are generally considered to dislike each other. Looking at some of them; Sun-Saturn, Sun-Venus, Jupiter-Mercury and Jupiter-Venus form such pairs. Hence it is believed that the gemstones belonging to both the planets in a pair should not be worn at the same time; even if both planets are benefic.

It is believed that since the two planets in each one of these pairs don’t go well with each other; wearing gemstones for both of them may create a number of problems for the native. This is because the each planet in each one of these pairs exhibit some characteristics which seem opposite to those exhibited by the other planet.

Due to these opposing characteristics; it is believed that the gemstones for two such planets should not be worn together; since they may create conflict within the native. It may seem so and it may even be so in some cases; but it may be quite the opposite in some other cases.

All these seemingly opposing planets are already present in each horoscope and most people are using their energies well. The characteristics represented by each pair of such planets are not opposite in the deepest sense and they are complementary to each other. The key to recommending such gemstones lies with the overall horoscope as well as the objective of the native. Let’s take an example to understand this concept in a better manner.

Suppose a benefic combination of exalted Mercury and Jupiter is placed in the first house of a horoscope in Virgo. Both these planets are benefic though Mercury is more benefic than Jupiter. Mercury is exalted, it is much stronger than Jupiter and Mercury forms Bhadra Yoga in this horoscope. Jupiter represents the fourth and seventh house in this horoscope whereas Mercury represents the first and tenth house.

Since Jupiter represents the fourth and seventh house and it is strongly influenced by Mercury; Jupiter may not render much spiritual growth in this case. On the contrary, it may favour materialistic results more than the spiritual ones. Since this combination is placed in the first house; the overall personality of this native is more likely to be dominated by intellect and materialism; than by faith and spiritual growth.

Looking at gemstone recommendation in this case, the gemstones for Jupiter and Mercury should not be worn together, unless they are both afflicted. When Jupiter gains strength through Yellow Sapphire, it may try to dominate Mercury which may not be possible, even with the help of a Yellow Sapphire since Mercury is much stronger than it. However, in its attempt to dominate Mercury, it may end up creating conflict in the personality of this native. This is because Yellow Sapphire may promote faith along with materialistic tendencies and Mercury is opposed to faith.

Since both these planets are placed in the same house and events happening in the first house reflect throughout the personality of the native; the overall personality of the native may witness strong conflict between faith and intellect. Though the native may be better equipped to achieve growth through intellect, stronger Jupiter may influence him to take the path of faith. This may create problems as the native may mix intellect with faith and he may not know which one is to be used in which situation.

As a result, the native may face problems. The sphere of profession may face maximum number of problems. This is because Mercury rules the tenth house and the native may at times end up trusting wrong people as well as making decisions which may be based on unrealistic hopes and optimism; rather than logic, analysis and relevance.

Since both these planets are benefic in the horoscope; the net results may still be benefic. However, the quantum of the results may be diluted. To have an idea, if the native is capable of earning 10 million a year due to his overall horoscope; he may end up earning 5 or 7 million. The remaining amount may be missed out or lost through decisions made without reasoning and logic. Hence wearing Yellow Sapphire should be avoided in this case.

Looking at Emerald, the native may not need this gemstone unless Mercury or the tenth house is seriously afflicted. This is because Mercury is already very strong and it is influencing Jupiter. Since Jupiter rules the seventh house which deals with marriage; more strength to Mercury means that the native may use more intellect in the sphere of marriage. As already mentioned; relationships like marriage and family are better dealt with through faith and emotions than through intellect and logic.

Hence wearing Emerald may create problems in marriage though it may not necessarily provide better result related to profession; since Mercury is already very strong. Hence Emerald may also be avoided in this case.

Let’s look at a different example. Suppose benefic Jupiter and benefic Mercury are placed in the tenth house of a horoscope in Sagittarius in Poorvashada nakshatra. Pisces rises in the ascendant and Jupiter forms Hamsa Yoga in the tenth house. Hence the overall horoscope is more likely to be driven by faith than by intellect. Mercury rules the fourth and the seventh house whereas Jupiter rules the first and tenth house. Jupiter is much stronger than Mercury in Sagittarius.

Poorvashada is ruled by Venus and it is an indulgent, romantic and life loving nakshatra. If the overall horoscope is supportive, the native may get blessed with a post of authority in government as an officer; with this combination. Hence the native may do well or very well in the sphere of profession.

Since Jupiter strongly influences Mercury and the latter rules the seventh house, the sphere of marriage may also benefit. The native may handle his marriage, more through faith and freedom and less through intellect and logic. This may improve the quality of marriage since the spouse may respond very well to the faith exhibited by the native as well as the freedom given by him and the couple may enjoy a good marriage based on faith, freedom and respect.

It can be seen that though the same combination of Jupiter and Mercury is there in both the cases; the results may be very different. The answer lies in the overall theme of the horoscope. In the first case, Virgo rises in the ascendant and exalted Mercury is placed in it. Hence the overall theme of the horoscope may strongly favour growth through intellect. Therefore, if we try to add faith to this horoscope at the cost of disturbing intellect; the overall benefic results may get diluted.

In the second case, Pisces rises in the ascendant and Jupiter is placed in Sagittarius. Hence the overall theme of the horoscope supports growth through qualities like faith, intelligence and spiritual growth.

Looking at gemstone recommendations in the second case, the native may not need to wear Yellow Sapphire or Emerald, unless one or both the planets are afflicted. However if the native wishes to wear gemstones for these two planets; Yellow Sapphire as well as Emerald may be worn. Caution should be practised that the weight of Yellow Sapphire should be more than that of Emerald, in order to maintain the overall theme of horoscope. If Mercury gains more strength than Jupiter; it may disturb the overall theme of the horoscope.

Likewise, there may be a number of other combinations in various horoscopes where gemstones for seemingly opposite planets may or may not be worn; depending on the overall theme of horoscope. In many cases, the gemstones for such planets may not cause problems as long as both such planets are benefic and they are not placed in the same house or in seventh houses with respect to each other. In both these cases, such planets have direct interactions. Hence caution should be practiced.

In cases where two such planets are benefic and they don’t have mutual connection through placement or aspect; gemstones for both these planets may be worn; if required; provided none of them violates the overall theme of horoscope. Let’s take an example to understand this concept in a better way.

Suppose benefic Venus is placed in the eleventh house of a horoscope in Sagittarius in Poorvashada, benefic debilitated Sun is placed in the ninth house in Libra in Swati, Mercury is placed in the tenth house in Scorpio, Saturn is placed in the second house in Pisces, Rahu is placed in the first house in Aquarius, a malefic combination of Ketu and Moon is placed in the seventh house in Leo, benefic Jupiter is placed in the fifth house in Gemini and Mars is placed in the fourth house in Taurus.

The overall theme of this horoscope is creative. Hence the native may achieve success as a creative professional of various types. The seventh house is seriously troubled in this case due to a malefic combination of Ketu and Moon. Sun being the lord of the seventh house is benefic but debilitated. It means the sphere of marriage may witness serious problems; including one or two broken marriages.

In this case, we need as much support as possible; without causing much problem for the overall theme of the horoscope. Between Sun and Venus; creativity is one of the common points, since both these planets are creative. Poorvashada and Swati are creative nakshatras and the overall theme of the horoscope is also creative. Hence gemstones for both Sun and Venus may be worn in this case, as they may go with the overall theme of the horoscope and at the same time; they may improve the sphere of marriage.

Life and horoscope are all about balance. Looking at life; even enemies join hands when bigger threat is witnessed. For example, USA and Russia seemed to have significant differences between them before the Second World War. However, they formed an alliance in order to face a bigger and eminent threat in the form of Adolf Hitler and associates. It was only because these two seemingly opposite countries joined together along with Great Britain; that they were able to win that war effectively. Survival is the most primary instinct and when it is threatened; even enemies become friends.

Gemstones for seemingly opposing planets may be worn if they don’t clash with each other in a horoscope and they don’t disturb the bigger theme of the horoscope. On the contrary, they may complement each other and provide more support to the horoscope, in some cases.

Let’s look at a different variation to understand the difference. Suppose a malefic combination of Moon and Ketu is placed in the seventh house of a horoscope in Leo, a combination of benefic exalted Sun and benefic Venus is placed in the third house in Aries in Ashwini nakshatra, Mercury is placed in the fourth house in Taurus, a benefic combination of Mars and Jupiter is placed in the tenth house in Scorpio and Saturn is placed in the fifth house in Gemini.

In this case, the overall theme supports success through business. Hence the native may engage in a business related to tour and travel, logistics, information and technology, marketing, advertising, software industry, scientific equipment, security equipment or some other business, depending on the finer factors in his horoscope.

Here again, the seventh house is troubled. Hence the native may face problems related to marriage and such problems may be more serious in case of male native. Venus is combust due to its closeness to Sun and it loses strength. Since Sun is very strong in Aries; Venus may lose significant amount of strength. As a result, the sphere of marriage may suffer in case of male native. Though Sun is the lord of the seventh house which rules marriage; Sun itself may create problems related to marriage; by rendering weakness to Venus.

Hence Ruby should not be worn in this case, though the seventh house is seriously troubled and Sun rules this house. White Sapphire should be worn by the native so that Venus may gain strength and it may perform better in the horoscope. As that happens; the native may witness significant relief related to marriage. Since the third house deals with profession, such benefic combination may produce very good results related to profession, in co-ordination with the benefic combination of Jupiter and Mars in the tenth house.

The application of gemstones changes from horoscope to horoscope. Accordingly, their use should be decided based on the horoscope under consideration and not based on fixed rules. Whether you deal with the analysis part or the remedial part; you should follow broader guidelines and based on those guidelines, you should see what rules a horoscope is dictating. The broader guidelines may remain the same in most cases but the finer rules may change from horoscope to horoscope. Based on such changed rules, gemstone recommendation should also be changed; keeping broader guidelines in mind.

Himanshu Shangari