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

Specific Gemstones for Navagraha

Though there are a number of different gemstones, Vedic astrology recommends only some specific gemstones for navagraha (nine planets). This gives rise to an interesting question as to why do only some specific gemstones belong to navagraha whereas the other ones don’t? Let’s look into this topic.

Let’s first learn some facts about working of gemstones. Gemstones work on the principal of capturing the energy-rays of their corresponding planets through their upper surfaces. Then they transmit these energy-rays through their lower surfaces, into the body of the native who wears them. For a gemstone to transfer the energy of a planet, the gemstone must be capable of capturing particular energy of such planet; which may contain specific wavelengths and some other specific qualities.

The same gemstone should also be capable of transmitting this energy into the body of the native who wears it. For example, Ruby which is the gemstone for Sun; captures energy-rays of Sun and then it transfers these rays into the body of the native who wears this gemstone. Hence in order for a gemstone to belong to Sun, it must capture the energy of Sun and transfer such energy into the body of the wearer.

Moving on, there are many gemstones which may not be capable of capturing and transmitting the energy-rays of any planet among navagraha. Hence they can’t be assigned to any planet among navagraha. It should be noted that each gemstone has different physical composition and hence it has different properties. It means that a particular gemstone may be capable of capturing the energy of a specific planet whereas other gemstones may not be able to do so.

Taking an example, a copper wire is capable of passing electric current through it but it is not capable of passing water through it. On the other hand, a piece of cloth or a piece of cotton is not capable of passing electric current through it but it is capable of passing water through it. Similarly, a solar energy panel is capable of receiving and transmitting the energy of Sun, a mobile tower is capable of receiving and transmitting mobile signals and a TV satellite dish is capable of receiving and transmitting TV signals. It can be seen that based on their compositions, all these devices are capable of receiving and transmitting different types of energies.

The same happens in case of gemstones also; and different gemstones may be capable of capturing and transmitting different types of energies from this universe. Whereas some of them may capture and transmit the energies of various planets among navagraha, some of them may capture the energies of planets other than navagraha. Yet some others may capture the energies which may not be planetary energies and they may be other types of energies existing in the universe.

Hence a gemstone must be capable of capturing and transferring the energy of a specific planet among navagraha, in order to be considered as the gemstone for such planet. However, capturing and transmitting the energy of a planet is not sufficient in itself for a gemstone to be assigned to a planet. There are some other properties which must be possessed by a gemstone in order for it to be assigned to a specific planet.

A gemstone must be capable of capturing and transmitting the energy of one and only one planet among navagraha. Some gemstones are capable of capturing and transmitting the energy of a planet among navagraha but these gemstones also tend to capture the energy-rays of some other planets which may or may not belong to navagraha. Hence such gemstones can’t be assigned to any one planet among navagraha.

For example, Neelambari and Peetambari are two gemstones which belong to the family of sapphires. However, these gemstones are not assigned to any planet among navagraha. This is due to the reason that both these gemstones capture the energy-rays of Saturn as well as Jupiter. Hence none of these two gemstones should be used to capture the energy of Saturn or Jupiter alone; as the energy of the other planet may also be captured by these gemstones. Such energy can cause problems for the native if the other planet is malefic for him.

Taking an example, suppose benefic Jupiter is placed in the first house of a horoscope in Pisces and malefic Saturn is placed in the ninth house in Scorpio. In this case, wearing a Peetambari or Neelambari is not a good choice for the native as both these gemstones may transmit the energy of Saturn along with Jupiter. Such increased energy of Saturn may cause a number of problems for the native. Hence a Yellow Sapphire which captures and transmits the energy of Jupiter alone; should be used in this case. Similarly, a Blue Sapphire instead of a Neelambari or Peetambari should be used in cases where Saturn is benefic and Jupiter is malefic.

Then there are some gemstones which may be capable of capturing and transmitting the energy of one and only one planet among navagraha. However, the rate of capture and transmission of energy may be far less in case of these gemstones; compared to some other gemstones. It means that for a given weight, these gemstones may transmit fewer energy-rays of a planet over a period of time, compared to another gemstone which may do the same job more efficiently and in less time.

Let’s take an example to understand this concept in a better way. Copper wires are preferred over iron wires when it comes to conduct electric current. The electric conductivity of copper is about 6 times greater than that of iron. Due to much higher conductivity of copper, most of the electric current is passed through a copper wire and relatively less energy is wasted in form of heat. Therefore, copper is more efficient than iron when it comes to pass electric current, though iron can also do the same job.

Similarly, there are gemstones which may not be very effective conductors of the energy of a planet though they may conduct or transmit the energy of that planet. More than one gemstone may be capable of conducting or transmitting the energy of a particular planet among navagraha, with different percentages of conductivity. However, the gemstone with the highest percentage of conductivity is a wise choice as it may be capable of doing the same job more effectively.

Taking an example, a Moon stone may also transmit the energy of Moon into the body of a native just like a Pearl does. However in actual practice, the results obtained by wearing Pearl to strengthen Moon may be much stronger than the results obtained by wearing Moon stone for the same purpose. This is because Pearl is much more efficient than Moon stone when it comes to capture and transmit the energy of Moon. Hence Pearl is the preferred choice when it comes to provide strength to Moon in a horoscope. The same holds true for other gemstones assigned to navagraha.

Therefore, the gemstone which can transmit the energy of a specific planet among navagraha with the greatest efficiency and which captures the energy of that particular planet only; is assigned as the gemstone for that planet. For example, Ruby captures the energy of Sun alone and among other gemstones which may do the same job; Ruby is the most efficient one. Hence Ruby is assigned as the gemstone for Sun.

Wearing gemstones other than the ones assigned to navagraha may produce many types of results. Some of them may produce results which may be benefic but less in quantum whereas some others may produce malefic results. Hence the gemstones assigned to navagraha only should be worn in order to get maximum astrological benefits. Here are the gemstones assigned to navagraha:

 

Planet	Gemstone
Sun	Ruby
Moon	Pearl
Jupiter	Yellow Sapphire
Venus	Diamond or White Sapphire
Mars	Red Coral
Mercury	Emerald
Saturn	Blue Sapphire
Rahu	Hessonite
Ketu	Cat’s Eye

 

Only one gemstone has been assigned to each planet except Venus which has been associated with two gemstones; Diamond and White Sapphire. The reason for this anomaly is that both Diamond and White Sapphire are capable of transmitting the energy of Venus alone, into the body of the native wearing these gemstones and both these gemstones can perform above satisfactory standards. There are some fine differences between these two gemstones. We’ll discuss them in the chapter ‘Identifying the Quality of Gemstones’.

 

Himanshu Shangari

 

 

Click Here to go to Gemstone Section

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

Mechanism of Gemstones

Gemstones are among the most powerful types of remedies featured in Vedic astrology. When it comes to produce quick and significant results; they are second only to Vedic Poojas. Their use can be traced back to ancient history of many civilizations and countries. Kings, Queens and rich people used to wear gemstones to get benefits and cast away evil.

Even in the present times, many rich and famous people are wearing them. A good number of people believe that gemstones are capable of bringing them magical results though they don’t know how these gemstones bring about such magical results. So what is the force working behind the gemstones? Are they magic or are they purely scientific devices?

Gemstones are scientific devices and they work on the basis of transfer of energy from specific planets to the body of the wearer. If a planet is benefic but weak in a horoscope, it may not give proper benefits to the native due to its weakness; unless something is done to provide more strength to this planet. This is where the application of gemstones comes into the picture. Gemstones are very good when it comes to supply energy to a planet in a horoscope.

Gemstones work on the principle of absorption and transmission of some particular wavelengths of energy where each one of such particular wavelengths belongs to a specific planet. For example, a Ruby absorbs and transmits Sun’s energy into the body of the native wearing this gemstone. As this additional energy goes into the body of the native, the energy of Sun inside him increases.

Hence if Sun is benefic but weak for the native, it may gain energy through Ruby, it may become stronger and it may provide better results. Taking an example, suppose a combination of benefic Sun and malefic Ketu is placed in the third house of a horoscope in Capricorn. Sun represents the tenth house in this horoscope and this house deals with profession. The third house also deals with profession. Hence Sun may bless the native with professional success among other things.

However due to affliction from Ketu, Sun may not do this job efficiently. Hence the native may not witness good results in the field of profession; despite this good placement of benefic Sun. Depending on the placement of Sun and Ketu in various nakshatras and navamshas within the sign of Capricorn; such affliction may be strong or very strong. It means Sun may become weak or very weak.

Taking an example, if within the sign of Capricorn; Sun is placed in Leo navamsha ruled by Dhanishtha nakshatra and Ketu is placed in Taurus navamsha ruled by Shravana nakshatra; the affliction may not be serious. This is because Sun is strong in Leo navamsha and it does well in Dhanishtha nakshatra. On the other hand, Ketu is debilitated in Taurus navamsha. Hence the weakness rendered to Sun by Ketu through affliction may not be serious in this case.

However if within the sign of Capricorn: Sun is placed in Cancer navamsha of Shravana nakshatra and Ketu is placed in Pisces navamsha of Uttarashada nakshatra; the equation may change. Sun is weak in Cancer and Ketu is exalted in Pisces. Hence the affliction may be serious in this case. As a result, Sun may lose much of its strength due to navamsha placement as well as due to serious affliction from Ketu.

Likewise, Sun may be somewhat weak, weak or very weak; depending on the placements of Sun and Ketu in various nakshatras and navamshas within the sign of Capricorn. Sun and Ketu can form 81 combinations in various navamshas within the sign of Capricorn. Each sign contains 9 navamshas. Hence one planet can form 9 combinations; two planets can form 81 combinations and three planets can form 729 combinations within a particular sign.

Depending on how much strength Sun loses through such affliction; the native may witness significant, serious or very serious problems related to his profession. Since Sun is the general signifier of father; the native may also face problems related to his father’s health and wellbeing, among other problems. The state of affairs may continue like this; unless something is done to provide strength to Sun.

This is where Ruby comes handy. Hence the native may be recommended to wear Ruby where the recommended weight may vary; depending on how weak the Sun may be; due to such affliction. More weakness means more energy may be required to fight the affliction. Hence relatively more weight for Ruby may be recommended. Less weakness means less energy may be required to get out of affliction. Hence relatively less weight for Ruby may be recommended.

It should be noted that if a benefic planet gains much more than required strength through its gemstone; the native may face problems. A horoscope is all about balance and excess of even benefic energies may create problems. Considering the present case, Sun is a fiery planet. Hence it may render energy, initiative, courage, immunity, confidence, aggression and other likewise qualities to the native. The native may witness benefits due to such qualities, in many spheres of his life.

However, if Sun becomes too strong in the horoscope; the same energy may start causing problems. The native may become short-tempered, impulsive, impatient, hot-headed, egoistic, over-confident and argumentative. As a result, he may face a wide variety of problems in various spheres of his life; due to such excess of Sun’s energy. Hence appropriate weights of gemstones should be used. It means the Ruby recommend for the native under consideration should render him confidence but not over-confidence, courage but not foolishness, aggression but not too much aggression, energy but not hot-temperedness; and initiative but not impulsiveness.

Therefore, a Ruby of suitable weight may be recommended to the native. As Sun gains strength through Ruby, it becomes stronger and more capable of fighting the affliction caused by Ketu. As a result, the native may witness better results related to profession, confidence, courage, father and other spheres represented by Sun.

It is like you’re deficient in iron and such deficiency is creating a number of problems. The doctor recommends an appropriate dosage of iron supplement to be taken regularly. You do so, the deficiency goes away and the problems caused by such deficiency also go away. Taking another example, suppose you’re deficient in insulin, which means you have high blood sugar. An appropriate dosage of insulin may be recommended on daily basis. Once you start taking such dosage; the deficiency as well as the problems caused due to such deficiency may go away.

However in both these cases; if the dosage is less than what you require, you may witness part relief only. On the other hand, if the dosage is more or much more than what you require; you may face problems due to excess of these supplements. In the first case; the iron levels in your body may become toxic and they may cause serious problems. In the second case, excess of insulin can make your blood sugar drop a lot; and you may suffer. Hence appropriate dosage is as important as appropriate supplement or medicine. Likewise, appropriate weight of gemstone is as important as finding the appropriate gemstone that you need.

Lets’ look at this equation from the opposite angle. If a planet is malefic in a horoscope, wearing the gemstone for that planet may create serious or very serious problems. This is because gemstones may only provide more energy or strength to their corresponding planets and they are not capable of changing the functional benefic or malefic nature of these planets.

Taking an example, suppose in the same case, the native is advised to wear Cat’s Eye which is the gemstone for Ketu. Since Ketu is malefic in the horoscope and it is afflicting Sun; thereby creating a number of problems; wearing Cat’s Eye may aggravate such problems. Cat’s Eye may transfer energy of Ketu to this native’s body or to be precise; to his aura. As Ketu gains strength, it may starting doing its job with more strength. Since it is creating malefic results in the horoscope by afflicting Sun; the affliction may become even stronger.

As a result, the number as well as the quantum of problems faced by the native related to his profession, father and all other spheres covered by Sun may increase a lot. Apart from that, the number and quantum of other problems caused by Ketu in such horoscope may also increase. For instance, malefic Ketu afflicts the third house in this horoscope, apart from afflicting Sun. Hence as Ketu gains more strength, the native may witness more problems related to the affairs of the third house. It means that the native may face problems related to his profession, siblings, courage, teammates, colleagues and a number of other problems. Hence gemstones should not be worn for malefic planets.

There are benefic planets in horoscope and then there are malefic planets in horoscope. However, a third category of planets also exists. These planets are partly benefic and partly malefic. They are called mixed planets in general. When a planet is a mixed one in a horoscope; the key to calculate the results given by such planet is knowing the percentage of benefic and malefic part of such planet. These percentages may be different in different cases and they are important in deciding whether or not the gemstone for such planet should be worn. Apart from that, the overall theme of horoscope is also an important factor.

Another factor which should be considered in case of mixed planets is the field of impact. It means the spheres of life where the benefic results may appear and the spheres of life where the malefic results may appear due to such mixed planets; should be assessed properly. After that, the particular requirement of the native under consideration should be considered. Only then, it should be decided, whether or not such gemstone may be suitable for the native.

Let’s take an example to understand this concept in a better way. Suppose Venus is placed in the seventh house of a horoscope in Aries. Libra rises in the ascendant and Venus rules the first as well as the eighth house. Venus is partly benefic and partly malefic in this case, though the benefic part is much higher.

The first thing to check is how benefic or malefic can it be. Within the sign of Aries, if Venus is placed in Ashwini nakshatra, it may be 60 to 70% benefic and 30 to 40% malefic; depending on its navamsha placements within Ashwini. If it is placed in Bharani nakshatra; it may be 70 to 80% benefic and 20 to 30% malefic; depending on its navamsha placements within Bharani. If it is placed in Krittika nakshatra, it may be 60 to 70% benefic and 30 to 40% malefic.

After that, the spheres which may witness benefic and malefic results should be checked. Venus represents the first house which deals with profession among other things. It is placed in the seventh house which primarily deals with marriage. Aries is a fiery sign and it is full of energy. Such energy may prove good for a sphere like profession as it may bless the native with the ability to do more in this field.

However, such energy may prove difficult for a delicate relationship like marriage since this relationship is not handled well with energy and aggression; and it is handled well with delicacy, care and emotions. Combining these factors; it may be assessed that the benefic effects of Venus may primarily appear in profession whereas the malefic effects may primarily appear in marriage.

The next thing to check is the requirement of the native in question. There may be a number of concerns that one such native may have. Let’s discuss one of them. Suppose due to the overall setup of the horoscope; the native is not able to achieve significant amount of success in profession. Suppose there are no other gemstones which may significantly help this native with professional growth. In this case, the gemstone for Venus, which is White Sapphire, may be considered though with due caution; and after analyzing the entire horoscope properly.

Depending on the fact that whether the native is married or unmarried; the malefic results given by White Sapphire may change. If the native is unmarried, wearing White Sapphire may delay his marriage and it may also cause one or more than one failed alliances or engagements. If the native is young or he otherwise doesn’t wish to get married for the next 3 to 5 years; such problems may not trouble him. Since the native is fine with not getting married or he may not be willing to get married for the next 5 years; this specific malefic result given by White Sapphire may not be a cause of concern in this case.

Hence White Sapphire of appropriate weight may be suggested. The native may witness better professional results after wearing this gemstone.  The native may keep wearing it till the time he has no plans for marriage. Once he decides to get married and the search for a lover or bride begins; White Sapphire should be removed at the earliest. If the native keeps wearing it, he may not be able to get married. Apart from that; he may witness failed love affairs as well as failed marriage alliances or engagements. Therefore, the native may have to remove White Sapphire in order to get married.

As he does that, the professional graph may gradually begin to drop. This is because the additional energy supplied by Venus is gone. It is like you take daily supplement of insulin for 5 years and then you stop it one day. It is easy to guess that your blood sugar levels may go up and you may not be able to enjoy the same kind of health now.

It means White Sapphire comes with a price in this case. It can bless the native with better results in profession but it may spoil the sphere of marriage. Hence the application of this gemstone should be decided according to the demand of the situation.

Looking at another probability, suppose the native is married when he reaches an astrologer for gemstone recommendation; and he is especially interested in gemstones for professional growth. In this case, White Sapphire may bless him with professional growth but the price may be high to pay. If the native wears this gemstone; he may witness good results related to profession but in a year or two; his marriage may fail. Hence White Sapphire shouldn’t be recommended in this case.

Looking at another probability, suppose the native is married, divorced and not willing to get married again. Suppose the native is suffering from professional problems and he wishes to know which gemstones may help him achieve professional growth. The equation has changed again. Assuming that there is no other gemstone according to his horoscope, which may significantly help him with professional growth; White Sapphire may be recommended with due caution.

The native may witness better results related to profession; after wearing this gemstone. However, the sphere of marriage may suffer. It means the native may not get married as long as he keeps wearing this gemstone. Since the native is not interested in getting married; this malefic effect may not prove malefic for him. Good and bad are relative and they depend on a number of factors. The malefic effect is not bad or malefic for this native since he’s not bothered about it.

However, if the same native is divorced but he’s looking to get married again; White Sapphire should not be recommended. In this case, this gemstone may block a desired or highly desired objective of the native. Hence it may prove malefic for him. Though he may be willing to achieve professional growth, he may not be willing to pay the price through his marriage. Hence White Sapphire should not be recommended in this case.

We have discussed only one benefic aspect and one malefic aspect of Venus in this horoscope. In real practice, there may be many benefic as well as malefic aspects of Venus in one such horoscope. Likewise, there may be a number of benefic as well as malefic aspects of other planets among navagraha, in a horoscope. The number and type of such aspects may change; depending on a number of relevant factors in horoscope. The collection of such factors is called the overall theme of the horoscope, or the overall horoscope.

Taking an example for one such relevant factor; placement of Venus in Libra navamsha within the sign of Aries in the seventh house may create the least serious type of problems for marriage. On the other hand, placement of Venus in Aries navamsha within the sign of Aries may create the most serious type of problems for marriage.

Therefore, the first step to be taken is to assess which planets are benefic in a horoscope under consideration; which ones are malefic and which ones are mixed ones. In order to do so, the placements of all planets among navagraha should be checked in various houses, signs, nakshatras and navamshas. Apart from that, the influences of benefic and malefic planets on each planet as well as the overall theme of the horoscope should be checked properly.

Once this is done, it should be seen which gemstones may be duly suitable for the native. In general, gemstones are most suitable for planets which are benefic, stable and which tend to create balance in horoscope. After that, gemstones for such planets may be suitable; which are benefic and which may be capable of producing specific benefic results asked by the native; though such planets may disturb stability or they may go against the overall theme of the horoscope.

In the next category, the gemstones for such planets may be recommended, which are mixed in nature and the benefic part is much higher than the malefic part. However, such gemstones should be recommended only when no other gemstone is available to improve a specific sphere of native’s life, where he may wish to see improvement. Such gemstones should be recommended with caution and their use should be limited to requirement. It means that once the native achieves his objective; such gemstones should be removed. Prolonged use of such gemstones may create serious problems in various spheres of native’s life.

Finally, there are planets which may be malefic or which may be mixed but the malefic part is higher than the benefic part. In both these cases; gemstones for such planets should be avoided, since they can cause serious problems if worn by the native. Only in some specific cases; their use may be recommended with extreme caution; for short periods of time.

There are some beliefs that gemstones for Jupiter and Venus; Jupiter and Mercury; Sun and Saturn; and for other likewise pairs of planets which may be generally opposed to each other; should not be worn at the same time. There are also some beliefs that the second and seventh house deal with death and their gemstones should not be worn. We’ll deal with these topics, in the chapters ‘Gemstones for Opposing Planets’ and ‘Gemstones for House Lords’.

Another aspect that should be paid attention to is the primary concern or concerns for which the native may want to wear a gemstone. Some natives may simply ask for suitable gemstones for them whereas some others may have specific spheres where they may wish to witness growth through gemstones. In the first case, the horoscope should be analyzed properly and suitable gemstone or gemstones should be recommended.

However in the second case, different approach is required. Though a suitable gemstone may give benefits to the native; it may not give all types of benefits. The primary effects of a benefic planet may reflect through the house it is placed in; as well as through its general significances. After that, the secondary benefits may reflect through the houses it rules. After that, it may produce benefic results through the planets it may cast direct aspects on. If what the native wishes to achieve can be achieved with the help of a gemstone; only then it may be specifically suitable for the native. The term ‘specifically suitable’ refers to specific benefic results required by the native.

Though every horoscope may dictate its own rules and accordingly; the application of gemstones may change; the general guidelines mentioned in this chapter may still help; while preparing gemstones recommendations for a native.

 

Himanshu Shangari

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How to Maintain Gemstones

Many people wear gemstones and then forget about them altogether. Gemstones require maintenance on regular basis or the results produced by them may diminish over time.

Based on durability, gemstones fall into two categories. The first category includes Ruby, Sapphires, Emerald, Hessonite and Cat’s Eye whereas the second one includes Pearl and Red Coral. Gemstones in the first category last very long, like they can easily last for decades if not damaged otherwise. Pearl and Red Coral have shorter lifespans and they erode away with time; primarily due to the action of sweat, water and soaps.

Looking at the first category, as you keep wearing a gemstone, layers of greasy deposits start forming on it; due to collective action of heat, sweat and oils. The upper and visible surface of such gemstone may not have thick deposits, since it is exposed most of the time it may get cleaned whenever you wash your hands with soap.

On the other hand, the bottom surface which touches your skin is hidden and it may not benefit much from exposure or cleaning. As a result, layers of greasy material may start forming over the bottom surface. Over a period of time, the deposits may get thick enough to significantly reduce the effects produced by the gemstone. The upper surface of a gemstone catches rays of energy from its corresponding planet and the gemstone tries to transfer them into your body through the bottom surface. Since the bottom surface may be significantly or seriously blocked due to deposits; not much energy may be transferred into your body.

Hence you need to clean your gemstones on regular basis, in order to get rid of such deposits. Depending on the geographical locations, job profiles and lifestyles; different natives may feel this need at different intervals. People living in cold regions or people who don’t engage in much physical work may not need to clean their gemstones as often as people living in hot regions or people who engage in manual work. People in the second category may be more exposed to sweat, dust and body oils. Hence their gemstones may form greasy deposits, relatively soon.

In general, it is a good idea to clean your gemstones once every 3 to 6 months; depending on the time taken by them to have greasy deposits on them. In order to do so, take a mixture of lukewarm water and liquid soap. Put your gemstone in it and let it be there for 15 to 30 minutes. After that, gently scrub it using a soft toothbrush and the deposits should go away. Rinse with clean water and dry it with a piece of lint-free cloth. Your gemstone is as good as new again. Keep repeating this process, once every 3 to 6 months; depending on your requirement.

Looking at Pearl and Red Coral; they are different and hence they need different type of care. These gemstones erode away due to the action of sweat, water, soaps and detergents. Hence the first thing you need to do is keep them away from as many of these things as you can. Remove your ring before washing hands and put it back after drying your hands. Likewise, remove it before taking bath and wear it after that. The idea is to keep it away from water and soaps; especially soaps, as much as you can; though not much may be done when it comes to sweat.

Since these gemstones erode away with time; they generally don’t form deposits. This is because the skin or material of their outer surfaces keeps going away, to be replaced by that of inner surfaces. As these gemstones keep shedding the layers on their outer surfaces; any deposits formed on such layers also go away with them. Hence these gemstones may not form greasy deposits in most cases.

However, if they still do; due to one reason or another, you should clean them. The process is different in this case. Don’t put Pearl or Red Coral in soap-water. Simply make a solution of lukewarm water and soap or detergent. The solution should be mild in this case. Dip a soft cleaning cloth in it and wipe the surface of your gemstone. Don’t put the gemstone in the solution and don’t rub it as that may cause damage to the gemstone. After wiping, simply dry it with the help of a soft, dry and clean cloth; and you’re done.

Cleaning your gemstones on regular basis ensures that they keep performing at their optimum levels.

 

Himanshu Shangari

 

Click Here to go to Gemstone Section

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

Identifying the Quality of Gemstones

In order for a gemstone to produce significant results, it should possess good quality. The quality of a gemstone is a measure of its efficiency to transfer the energy of its corresponding planet into the body of the wearer. Though various gemstones for navagraha receive energy from their corresponding planets, not all the energy is transferred by them.

When a gemstone receives energy from its corresponding planet, a part of such energy may be blocked and a part may be transferred into the body of the wearer. The percentage of energy which is transferred to the body of the wearer by a particular gemstone is called its efficiency. Suppose a gemstone receives 100 rays of energy per second from its corresponding planet. If it is capable of transferring 50 out of these 100 rays into the body of the wearer, its efficiency is 50%.

Likewise, if a gemstone is capable of transferring 80 rays per 100 rays of energy received by it, into the body of the wearer, its efficiency is 80%. Similarly, different gemstones may have different percentages of efficiency. For example, a Ruby may have 20% efficiency, another one may have 50% and yet another one may have 80% or 90%. Hence efficiency is an important factor to look for, when buying a gemstone.

Based on their natural formations; Ruby, Yellow Sapphire, White Sapphire, Emerald, Blue Sapphire, Hessonite and Cat’s Eye fall into the category of transparent gemstones whereas Pearl and Red Coral fall into the category of Opaque gemstones. Let’s start with transparent gemstones.

A gemstone may have various types of inclusions in it; commonly called impurities. These inclusions may block parts of energy received by the gemstone and that reduces the efficiency. In general, there are three major types of inclusions that a transparent gemstones may have. They may include dots, lines or clouds. In general, the dots are black, the lines are white or kind of white, and the clouds are greyish white.

Since dots may be the smaller ones among these three, they may have minimum negative effect on the efficiency of a gemstone; unless they are high or very high in number. Hence a gemstone may contain 10 or 20 very small dots in it but they may not have much negative impact on its efficiency. However if the dots are higher in number or they are bigger in size or both; the efficiency of gemstone may be compromised. Hence this factor should be paid due attention.

Looking at lines; 1, 2 or 3 lines within a gemstone may not do much damage to its efficiency. However as the number of these lines as well as their lengths increase, they may become cause of concern. Some lines may cover only a part of a gemstone whereas some others may run across a gemstone. Bigger the lines are, more the efficiency may be compromised.

Looking at the worst type of inclusions, they are clouds. They may be present in a gemstone in many variations. A gemstone may have a cloud which may cover a small part of it, say about 5%. In this case, this part of the gemstone may perform poorly. To have an idea, if this part receives 100 rays of energy; only 10, 20 or 30 may pass through it; depending on the density of cloud.

In some cases, a gemstone may have more than one small cloud in different parts of it. Based on their number, sections of the gemstone they cover and their densities; such clouds may cause significant or serious reduction in the efficiency of the gemstone. Taking an example, if 4 clouds are present in a gemstone, each one of them covers 5% of the gemstone and all of them are dense; 20% of the gemstone is almost dead.

Looking at the worst case, a gemstone may have a single cloud spread throughout it. Depending on the density of such cloud; it may block 50%, 70% or even 90% of the energy falling on the surface of such gemstone. Hence the gemstone may have an efficiency of 50%, 30% or even 10%. As the efficiency of a gemstone drops, it becomes less useful and hence, less worthy of buying. Therefore, due attention should be paid to cloud inclusions within a gemstone as they may spoil the results of such gemstone.

This is not all and there’s more to the concept of efficiency. The next and more important factor is the number of rays captured per second by a gemstone. In general, this factor changes on the basis of the origin of a gemstone. Hence different varieties of the same gemstone may capture different number of rays per second.

Taking an example, a particular variety of Ruby (say A) may capture 1000 rays of energy per second in its purest form; another one (say B) may capture 500 and yet another one (say C) may capture 100 rays per second even when performing at its best; without any inclusions. It means that even if Ruby A loses 30% efficiency due to inclusions or impurities and Ruby C is absolutely free from inclusions; A may still be able to capture 700 rays per second whereas C may capture 100 rays per second. Therefore, Ruby A with 70% efficiency is still 7 times more efficient than Ruby C with 100% efficiency.

Since there are more than one factor involved in deciding the efficiency of a gemstone; let’s use a different scale. Let’s say that when all varieties of Ruby are absolutely free from inclusions; specimen A carries an efficiency score of 100, specimen B carries 50 and specimen C carries 10. Likewise, other varieties of Ruby may carry different scores of efficiency.

In this case, that the net efficiency of a piece of Ruby may be defined as the total efficiency score assigned to this particular variety of Ruby, minus the efficiency lost due to inclusions or impurities contained by this piece of Ruby. The same theory holds for other gemstones.

On this scale, Rubies from Burma are considered to have the highest overall efficiency; like that of specimen A. However, they may be so expensive that most people may not be able to afford them. Hence it may be a good choice to settle for Rubies from Thailand or some other likewise origin. The overall efficiency is good and the prices are affordable.

Looking at other gemstones; the most recommended variety of Pearl is South Sea Pearl. They are very good at producing results and they are not expensive at the same time. When it comes to Yellow Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, White Sapphire, Hessonite and Cat’s Eye; Sri Lanka is among the best producers. Hence these gemstones from Sri Lankan origin are recommended. They are good in terms of efficiency and they are affordable though not easily in some cases. Red Corals from Japan or Italy and Emeralds from Columbia, Brazil or Zambia are recommended.

The next factor which affects the efficiency of a gemstone is its colour. Though the colour may not significantly affect the efficiency of a gemstone; it may affect some other aspects of the gemstone. A planet may emit energy-rays at many wavelengths, like Sun does. Depending on its colour, Ruby may capture some wavelengths more than the others. The same holds true for other gemstones.

Hence the colour of a gemstone may change some finer aspects of its working. Therefore, if Ruby is suitable for a native; light, medium or dark Ruby may be more suitable for him; depending on his overall horoscope. In general, medium dark colours of most gemstones are suitable for most people. When it comes to very dark, light or very light colour; they may suit some natives more than the others.

Hence if you choose to wear a gemstone on your own; it is good to go with the one which is medium dark in colour. If an astrologer recommends such gemstone for you, he may mention which colour patterns of such gemstones may be more suitable for you. It should be noted that if a gemstone is suitable for you; different colours of this gemstone may still be suitable for you and they may not cause harm or side effects in most cases. It is only in some cases that light or very dark colour of a gemstone may be required. Even in these cases, medium dark may do the job without causing problems; though the specific effects required or to be avoided may be somewhat more or less.

There is one anomaly related to this factor and that comes in case of White Sapphire. Since this gemstone is colourless; the colour criterion may not help in this regard. The choice in this case is not made between different colours of White Sapphire and it is made between White Sapphire and Diamond. Based on its quality; White Sapphire may promote relaxed and balanced sides of Venus, more than the intense side. On the other hand, Diamond may promote intense side of Venus, more than the relaxed side. Most people may not be able to properly handle the energy of the intense side of Venus.  Hence White Sapphire is a better option in most cases.

In case of Red Coral, clarity is not a criterion since this gemstone is opaque. Hence the origin and different shades of colour become important in this case. In general, medium dark Red Coral is suitable for most people.

In case of Pearl, clarity again is not a criterion since this gemstone is also opaque. The variety of Pearl becomes the most important criteria in this case. After that, the colour of Pearl is worthy of paying attention to. Significantly Bluish, Yellowish and Blackish Pearls may not be suitable for most natives. Hence the safer options for most natives are pure white and off-white with some added Yellow or Blue in it. Between these colours also, there may be fine variations in results produced by Pearl. However, they may not make significant differences in most cases.

The next important factor is the genuineness of the gemstone. For this, simply get a lab test performed or ask the seller to provide a lab test report for the gemstone you are willing to buy. If the test report mentions that the gemstone is natural, it is a genuine one. For example, lab test report for a Ruby may mention ‘Natural Ruby’. The only exception is that in case of Pearl. Since most of the good quality Pearls are cultured; the report may mention ‘Pearl’ or ‘Cultured Pearl’ instead of mentioning ‘Natural Pearl’. This is fine.

When it comes to check the origin of gemstones, many labs may not be equipped to do this job though some of them may have the equipment to do so. If the origin can be obtained through the report, it is an advantage. If not, you simply need to buy your gemstone from a trustworthy source.

The next factor is treatment of gemstones. A well-equipped lab may tell you whether or not a gemstone has been treated. It is common practice to subject gemstones to heat treatment; especially the ones like Rubies and Sapphires. In its natural form; a Ruby may have so many inclusions in it that you may never think of buying it.

Hence some gemstones like Rubies and Sapphires are heated beyond their melting points. The gemstones melt and reform. In the process; the impurities, inclusions, colour and some other aspects may rearrange in a way that the gemstones may become much better than before. In most cases, heat treatment alone may not cause problems and such gemstones may produce good astrological results without producing side effects.

The next type of treatment is oil treatment. This is used especially in case of Emerald. This gemstone has a significant tendency to go dry. It may keep going drier and drier till it ultimately cracks. Hence it is treated with oil in order to take care of this issue. Cedarwood oil is most commonly used for this purpose, because it is colorless and has a refractive index close to that of Emerald. However, other types of oils may also be used. This treatment is fine and it shouldn’t create problems in most cases.

Some gemstones are treated with glass filling; especially Ruby. This practice is carried out to fill cavities and fractures in Rubies. It makes them look good and clean. Lead glass filling is commonly used to treat
Rubies. This type of treatment has its own advantages as well as disadvantages. Much depends on the percentage of glass filling in a piece of Ruby. Looking at advantages; such Rubies may look beautiful, they may cost less and they may also produce sufficient astrological effects (personally tested on a number of people). The last factor is dependent on the percentage of glass filled in Ruby. If percentage filling is below 10%; the Ruby may look very good, it may cost much less and it may be duly effective. On the other hand, if percentage filling is as high as 50% or more; effects may be compromised.

Despite glass filling, such Rubies are becoming more and more popular. This is because of the disadvantages associated with natural Rubies. Majority of them may look bad and/or they may have significant or serious amounts of inclusions. If they include dots; such dots may be presents in dozens or hundreds. Even worse, many of them include clouds; and them too throughout the gemstones. The ones which are better looking and which are clean; may cost so much that it may be difficult to afford them for most people. Hence buying Ruby is a difficult task.

Over years of practice in this field, I have found that filling is better than cloud inclusions; as long as the percentage of filling is not high. A 10% glass filled Ruby may still perform much better than a 70% cloud-blocked Ruby which may be natural, untreated and more expensive. Hence the choice to buy this gemstone largely depends on how much you can spend and how much you’re willing to spend. If you’re going to buy a Ruby but you don’t know whether or not it will actually suit you; it is better to go with a treated Ruby; even if you can afford a natural and expensive one. Try it out for some time and if it suits you; you can switch to a natural one.

To have an idea, a good looking, natural and astrologically efficient Ruby may cost between USD 500 and 2000 per carat. It means if you wish to buy a 5 carat piece; you may need to spend USD 2500 to 10,000 for it. Imagine if it doesn’t suit you after spending so much amount?

Compared to this, a beautiful looking, treated and astrologically efficient (low percentage of glass filling) Ruby may cost you between USD 20 to 50 per carat. It means a 5 carat piece may cost between USD 100 and 250.

Hence it is up to you to make a wise choice; based on your financial situation and circumstances. If your primary objective is to get astrological effects; a treated Ruby may do this job well, provided the percentage of glass filling is low. On the other hand, if money is not an issue for you and you love quality as well as brand value; a natural untreated Burmese Ruby is what you may be looking for.

Moving on to the next type of treatment, some gemstones are treated with colours; especially the Sapphires. It means a light coloured Yellow Sapphire may be turned into a dark one; by adding artificial Yellow Colour to it. Though it may look good; the colour may fade gradually, with the action of Sun light. Depending on how often and how much such gemstone is exposed to Sun light; you may end up having a very light Yellow Sapphire in a period of 1 to 5 years; though you bought a dark one. Hence you should keep this factor in mind while purchasing gemstones.

As far as the astrological part goes, you may not benefit much from such added colour. Suppose a Yellow Sapphire originally scores 3 out of 10 on the scale of colour. This means it is a light Yellow Sapphire. Suppose artificial colour is added to it so that it now scores 9 on the same scale. If you wear this gemstone, you may get effects equivalent to that given by a Yellow Sapphire with a score of 3.5 or 4; even when such gemstone is new. As the colour fades, the effects may reduce and they may come back to those given by a Yellow Sapphire scoring 3 on the scale of colour. Hence you should be careful about this aspect, when buying gemstones.

Moving on, some gemstones may have cracks in them though some may only seem to have them and they may be fine. Some gemstones may have inclusions in form of lines and they may give the impressions that the gemstones are cracked. If one such crack is actual, you should be able to feel it if you slide your finger, slowly across the doubtful area. If you can’t feel anything even by repeatedly engaging in the same practice, it may be an inclusion and not a crack. However, if you can feel it through touch; it is very likely a crack.

When buying a White Sapphire, be extra cautious about the fact that it should be colourless. A lab test report stating ‘Colourless’ should be sufficient in most cases. However, you should also check it thoroughly if you have the chance. A small section of a White Sapphire having blue or yellow tinge in it may pass as White Sapphire and it should be fine to wear also. However, if such colour spreads throughout the gemstone; it may become a cause of concern.

Paying attention to these factors when buying your gemstones may help you get better gemstones for the price you pay.

Himanshu Shangari

The detailed versions of some of these articles are featured in the book ‘Gemstones – Magic or Science? (Revised Edition).

Gemstone Section

This section discusses how gemstones work, misconceptions related to them, criterion for their recommendations, their benefits, how to wear them and how to take care of them.

Mechanism of Gemstones

Specific Gemstones for Navagraha

Gemstones and Exalted Planets

Gemstones and Debilitated Planets

Gemstones and Mahadasha

Gemstones for Opposing Planets

Gemstones for House Lords

Gemstones and Sun Signs

Gemstones and Moon Signs

Gemstones and Birth Nakshatras

Gemstones and Numerology

Navagraha Gemstone Pendant

Ruby – Know Your Gemstones

Pearl – Know Your Gemstones

Yellow Sapphire – Know Your Gemstones

White Sapphire – Know Your Gemstones

Red Coral – Know Your Gemstones

Emerald – Know Your Gemstones

Blue Sapphire – Know Your Gemstones

Hessonite – Know Your Gemstones

Cat’s Eye – Know Your Gemstones

Identifying the Quality of Gemstones

How to Maintain Gemstones

Gemstones and Dreams

 

Himanshu Shangari