Gemstones

In Hindu astrology, gemstones are used
to strengthen, neutralize, or counteract
the celestial influence of certain planets. Hindu astrology recognizes nine
planets, each of which is associated with
a particular gemstone: sun (ruby),
moon (pearl), Mars (coral), Mercury
(emerald), Jupiter (topaz), Venus (diamond), Saturn (sapphire), Rahu (agate),
and Ketu (turquoise). Each of these nine
planets is considered to be a minor deity
and to have a distinct personality and
characteristics. When deciding which
gemstones to wear, one must make certain astrological considerations, particularly the position of the planets in one’s
natal horoscope (janampatrika), which
is believed to reveal each planet’s influence. These gemstones are worn
in rings, with the base of the stone
in contact with the skin to give the
gemstones their efficacy over their
planetary counterparts.