Coral

The origin of coral is explained in Greek mythology by the story of Perseus. Having petrified Cetus, the sea monster threatening Andromeda, Perseus placed Medusa’s head on the riverbank while he washed his hands. When he recovered her head, he saw that her blood had turned the seaweed (in some variants the reeds) into red coral. Thus, the Greek word for coral is `Gorgeia`, as Medusa was one of the three Gorgons.

Poseidon resided in a palace made of coral and gems, and Hephaestus first crafted his work from coral.

The Romans believed coral could protect children from harm, as well as cure wounds made by snakes and scorpions and diagnose diseases by changing colour.

Coral has been called the `garden of the sea`. It was once believed to be a plant, but is now known to actually contain living animals called polyps. Coral is the result of accumulated skeletal masses from these polyps. The polyps are surrounded by a fleshy skin and excrete a carbonic substance from which the coral grows like trees and branches. This happens in the warm waters of the ocean at depths of around 10 to 500 feet where various coral species survive. In some places saltwater corals also exist.

Precious corals or red corals are called corallium rubrum, a word that is derived from a Latin word related to the Greek word Koralliom. The hard skeletons of the red coral branches have a matte look and are therefore dull. However, these can be polished to a beautiful shine for use as precious gems.

The history tells us that the oldest coral to be used in coral jewellery was thousands of years ago around 3000 B.C. For almost 2000 years, the Romans used the coral gemstone extensively and made it popular.

In India, this gem is known by various names like mangal, moonga and pavlam. This gemstone is one of the Navagraha stones (stones that represent the nine planets that have a cosmic influence on all earthlings) and represents Mars (Mangal). It is related to attributes like courage, initiative, vitality, vigor, aggression. Coral has a special significance in Indian astrology and has found mention in ancient Indian Vedic Literature. It is one of the many starts that have an important place in the study of star signs.

There are different types of corals that provide corals of different hues. Gem coral occurs in white, pink, orange, red, blue, violet, gold and black. The black and golden coral types differ from the white to red in that they are not calcium carbonate, but rather a horny substance. But the ones that are mainly used in jewellery are red corals, pink corals and white corals.

The price is lower for a gem that is lighter in color and the prices are higher for those that have a deep hue. Therefore light color coral fetches a lower price than deeper ones. The red coral is the most expensive of all the varieties. It is almost as expensive as gold. A pink one, with no trace of orange and uniformity in color, costs almost as much as the red ones. If the color is uniform and bright red, then the price of a coral is likely to be around $5 per carat to $50 per carat depending upon the overall size.

 Coral is found on the African coasts, Australia, Japan, Mediterranean coasts, Malaysia, and the West Indies. The best quality red sea corals are found in Italy around the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea and the sea around Japan, particularly off the coasts of Algeria and Tunisia. A black horny coral growth, probably conchiolin, which hardens on exposure to air, has been obtained off the islands of Hawaii. 

Red coral is ruled by mars. It provides vitality, vigour and stamina. The red coral is highly recommended for the men in uniform. Usually it is often recommended for good luck and to enhance determination or will power. Women with history of abortions should wear this for successful delivery.

Therapeutical Uses:

Coral cures all kinds of mental diseases, physical diseases, blood diseases, burns, bruises, bone marrow and muscular difficulties. Red coral in combination with other gems can help to cure and fight these diseases.-blood cancer, bone cancer, breast cancer, mouth cancer, stomach cancer, breathing troubles, anemia, kidney trouble, nerve diseases, scoatoca, gallstones, diabetes, asthma, hernia, appendicitis, pthysis pleurisy, meningitis, gouts, carbuncle, paralysis, rickets, piles, boils and wounds, menstrual disorder, painful delivery and in operations.

Wedding anniversary: Coral is the anniversary gemstone for the 35th year of marriage.

Mystical power: Coral is said to cure madness and give wisdom. Coral is used to build an emotional foundation. Coral protects children. It aids in the safe crossing of rivers, passages through tempests. It excites nerve power, brilliancy and gladness and is a true health-giver.

Note: Coral loses its powers when broken. 

Compatibility:

Red coral can be worn by the ascendant or moon sign of aries & Scorpio. It can also be worn by the person born in the asterism of moon ( i.e, Mrigashira, Chittha & Dhanistha ). Red coral is a birthstone for the month of March and the persons with the birth dates 9, 18 & 27 can also wear this gem.

Caution:

Red should be avoided with blue sapphire & emerald.

Red coral in accordance to different rashis.

Aries: Can wear it as it is a jeevan rattan. But if native is having health problems like hypertensions then avoid it or consult before wearing it.

Taurus: Avoid it.

Gemini: Not advised.

Cancer: The Moon of Cancer shares an average relationship with the planet Mars of Red Coral gemstones besides which it rules over the 5th & 10th houses of Cancer ascendants which altogether produces an auspicious relationship in between. The Coral gemstones would be a blessing for Cancer natives as it will bring them good intellect & intelligence leading them towards great height of success. Besides this, adoption of Coral along with pearl would bring be more beneficial to Cancer natives and it would be truly positive in the Major period of Mars.

Leo: Can be worn but conditions applied. So consult before wearing.

Virgo: Avoid it.

Libra: Not advised.

Scorpio: Can be worn but again conditions applied so consult before wearing.

Sagittarius: Can be worn but avoid if you are having problems like high blood pressure.

Capricorn: Avoid it.

Aquarius: Could only be worn under specific circumstances otherwise avoid it.

Pisces: Can wear it.

Pooja procedure for wearing Red Coral:

Pooja should be performed in the hora of mars on any Tuesday between 6.00 a.m to 7.00 a.m or 1.00 p.m to 3.00 p.m or can also be worn in late nights.

 Materials for pooja:

Red cloth, tuar dal, honey, red flowers & incense.

Procedure:

Spread the red cloth and put tuar dal on it. First wash the stone embedded ring milk followed by water. Then apply paste of sandal, vermillion (kumkum) on it and place it on the cloth. Light the lamps and burn incenses perform the pooja to the ring with red flowers reciting kuja mantra. The pooja should be performed for 9 days.

KUJA MANTRA

“Veera dhwajaaya vidmahe, vigna hasthaaya dheemahi

Thanno bhouma prachodayaath”   || 108 times ||

Offer honey, and then wear the ring. Additionally the wearer can donate the tuar dal to get maximum benefit.

BLUE SAPPHIRE

The striking deep blue of a quality sapphire is reminiscent of a cloudless night sky.  Ancient civilizations believed that the world was set upon an enormous sapphire, which painted the sky blue with its reflection.  This legend, as well as the belief that the Ten Commandments were inscribed upon tablets made of sapphire, gives September’s birthstone a royal place among gemstones. 

Named after the Greek word "sapphirus", meaning blue, Sapphires have long been a favourite among priests and kings, who considered them symbolic of wisdom and purity. These gemstones are prominent among the British Crown Jewels, and Prince Charles chose this as the engagement stone for his fiancée, Princess Diana.  

Sapphire...the word sounds as magical as the images it conjures up...sapphire blue skies, sapphire blue waters, and sapphire blue flowers. In the eighteenth century, any blue gemstone was categorized as a hyacinth, for the bluish flower. Today, we know that the correct nomenclature for a sapphire is "corundum". Although the word sapphire usually means a blue gem, we also find sapphires in a wide range of colours including violet, green, yellow, orange, pink and purple.

These gemstones were mined as early as the 7th Century BC from India and what is now Sri Lanka.  They are found today in Sri Lanka, Kashmir, Myanmar, Thailand, Australia, Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, China, Madagascar, and the United States.  Large specimens of Corundum crystals are rare, although the 563-carat Star of India can be seen in the American Museum of Natural History.

Although more than 2 dozen locales produce sapphires, the three most famous regions are Kashmir, Burma, and Sri Lanka. The most renown is Kashmir, a beautiful place high up in the Himalayas. Kashmir produces "cornflower" blue sapphires. Cornflower is an intense, medium-dark blue with a velvety appearance. Burmese sapphires are also lovely, but the blue is darker than those from Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka produces a sapphire that is lighter and brighter. Such sapphires are called Ceylon sapphires [Sri Lanka was formerly known as Ceylon]. But whatever the colour blue, and whichever is your personal favourite, sapphires have been worn and loved for centuries.  This is the largest and most famous of star Sapphires, which are cut to reflect light from inclusions within the stone, revealing a bright six-legged star pattern. 

The price of the blue sapphire depends mainly on the color of the gem. Although the gem cut and gem clarity also affect price, the influence that the color has on the price is far more significant. Another aspect that is extremely important is clarity. This is so because a blue sapphire with no natural inclusions is a rarity. And therefore a blue sapphire gem with a high clarity generally fetches an extremely high price. 

Kashmir blue sapphire gemstones are best blue sapphires and are the finest among those that can be found and they can fetch a very exotic price in the market. A royal blue untreated Kashmir sapphire can exceed $ 1500 per carat in price. The natural unheated and untreated blue Ceylon sapphire (Now Sri Lanka) is sold in the regular range of $100 to $400 per carat.

Depending on the quality of the stone, sapphires can also be found beyond this range.

Blue sapphire is ruled by mighty planet `Saturn`. Due to the unstable nature of gem bring only extremities. It gives very beneficial results once suited but may destroy the whole life if unsuitable. It is not uncommon to observe malefic effects bring by blue sapphire even though it appears suitable in the nativity. For this reason, blue sapphire is suitable for only few natives; but if suited it is one of the greatest blessings. Blue Sapphire is known by different names like: Neelam, Indranil, Shauri Ratna, Neelmani, Mahaneel, Nilofar and Vachinam. In Marathi it is known by the name of Neel.

Special Features

Blue sapphire changes its colour to indicate threats, natural calamities, unexpected happenings or accidents, problems.

Therapeutical UsesBlue sapphire aids nervous disorders, joint pains, controls gastric trouble, gout, arthritis, heart trouble, asthma and legs pain. Increases stamina and improves fertility in barren women.

Compatibility

Blue sapphire can be worn by the ascendant or moon sign of Aquarius & Capricorn. It can also be worn by the person born in the asterism of moon (i.e., Pushya, Anuradha & Uttarabhadra). Blue sapphire is a birthstone for the month of September and the persons with the birth dates 8, 17 & 26 can also wear this gem.

Aries: For Aries Ascendant, Saturn is the Lord of 10th and 11th house. People may wear this stone for professional works and increase in income. They should wear this stone in Saturn Mahadasha.

Taurus: For this ascendant, Saturn is a friend of Lord of the ascendant, Venus. Here Saturn is the Lord of 9th and 10th house. For this ascendant, Saturn yields the most auspicious results. People of this ascendant should wear Blue Sapphire along with Diamond. 

Gemini: In horoscope of Gemini ascendant, Saturn is the Lord of 8th and 9th house. Saturn is good for Gemini ascendant and wearing gem-stone Blue Sapphire will yield auspicious results for them. In addition, the people of this ascendant should wear Emerald, the stone of Lord of the Ascendant, Mercury along with Blue Sapphire.

Cancer: For Cancer ascendant, Saturn is the Lord of 7th and 8th house. The person of Cancer ascendant should not wear Blue Sapphire.

Leo: Saturn is the Lord of 6th and 7th house in horoscope of Leo ascendant. People of Leo ascendant should not wear Blue Sapphire. If ever they have to wear this, they should wear it only in Saturn Mahadasha.

Virgo:  Saturn is the Lord of 5th and 6th house for Virgo ascendant. Wearing Blue Sapphire will bring auspicious results for the people of Virgo ascendant.

Libra:  In horoscope of Libra ascendant, Saturn is the Lord of 4th and 5th house. Wearing Blue Sapphire by people of Libra ascendant will bring profits for them.

Scorpio: In horoscope of Scorpio ascendant, Saturn is the Lord of 3rd and the 4th house. Blue Sapphire is not auspicious for this ascendant. People of this ascendant should not wear Blue Sapphire. 

Sagittarius: For Sagittarius Ascendant, Saturn is the Lord of 2nd and 3rd house. Both these houses of horoscope are considered inauspicious. The people of Sagittarius ascendant should wear this stone only for family and savings and that too during Saturn Mahadasha.

Capricorn: Saturn is the Lord of the ascendant and the 3rd house. Being the Lord of the ascendant makes it an auspicious planet. Wearing the stone of the Lord of the ascendant, Saturn, brings good results for the person of Capricorn ascendant.

Aquarius: In horoscope of Aquarius ascendant, Saturn is the Lord of 11th and 12th house. People of Aquarius ascendant should wear Saturn stone Blue Sapphire. 

Pisces: Saturn is the Lord of 11th and 12th house in the horoscope of Pisces ascendant. The people of this ascendant should not wear Blue Sapphire.

Caution;

Blue sapphire should never be worn with ruby, pearl & red coral.

Pooja procedure for wearing Blue Sapphire

Pooja should be performed in the hora of Saturn on any Saturday between 6.00 a.m to 7.00 a.m or 1.00 p.m to 3.00 p.m or can also be worn in late nights.

Materials for pooja:

Black cloth, black gingely, sweets, flowers & incense.

Procedure

Spread the black cloth and put gingely on it. First wash the stone embedded ring milk followed by water. Then apply paste of sandal, vermillion (kumkum) on it and place it on the cloth. Light the lamps and burn incenses perform the pooja to the ring with flowers reciting shani mantra.

SHANI MANTRA

“Kaaka dhwajaaya vidmahe, kadga hasthaaya dheemahi

Thanno mandha prachodayaath”   || 108 times ||

Offer some fruits and sweets, and then wear the ring. Additionally the wearer can donate the gingely oil to get maximum benefit.

Cats Eye (Lehsuniya): Stone for Ketu

Cat’s eye is ruled by planet of secrets `ketu`. This is a Gem of Ketu (Dragon’s Tail) .By wearing this gem one is able to subdue his enemies and is able to remove the effect of any negative forces working on him. This gives one social recognition and sudden spurts of growth. It protects from erratic income and bestows stability in life. This is the gem of Moksha and frees one from the cycles of life and death.

The translucent honey-yellow to greenish or brownish yellow chatoyant chrysoberyl which, when cut with a domed surface (cabochon) show a mobile streak of light are called as cymophane or cat`s eye chrysoberyl. Cat’s eye is a band of light that runs length wise from one end of the stone to the other. This effect is called chatoyancy.

In gemology, chatoyancy (or chatoyance) is an optical reflectance effect seen in certain natural gemstones. Coined from the French "oeil de chat", meaning `cat`s eye`, chatoyancy arises either from the fibrous structure of a material, as seen in tiger eye quartz, or from fibrous inclusions or cavities within the stone, as seen in chrysoberyl cat`s eye .

This chatoyant chrysoberyl Cats eye gemstone is also known as ‘cymophane’ which comes from a Greek word that means ‘wavelike form’, owing the name to the chatoyancy sometimes exhibited in this variety of gemstone. Cat’s eye stones (gemstones displaying the streak of light), similar in appearance to cymophane, are formed in minerals such as tourmaline, scapolite, corundum, spinel and quartz. The industry designates these gemstones as quartz cat`s eyes, or ruby cat`s eyes etc and only the chrysoberyl gemstone can be referred to as cat`s eye with no other designation.

This gem has had the longest history amongst the other chrysoberyl varieties. By the start of the nineteenth century the gem had lost its popularity. However, in the late nineteenth century when the Duke of Connaught gave a cat`s eye ring as an engagement token to the princess of Prussia, this gemstone became popular once again and its value increased greatly.

In India, this gem is known by various names like ‘lasunia’, ‘vaidhuriya’, ‘ketu’, and ‘bidalaskh’. The gemstone is one of the Navagraha stones (stones that represent the nine planets that have a cosmic influence on all earthlings) representing the God of the Descending/South lunar node (ketu) in Indian astrology and is related to supernatural influences.

This gem is believed to protect the wearer from bad fortune, harmonizing the negative effects of Ketu and hence it is popular in the Indian market. For therapeutic purposes, chrysoberyl rings should be worn as recommended. Chrysoberyl stones are tested and cut for the specific purpose and can be set in a ring in a specific format. 

The cat’s eye gemstones and cats eye beads are mostly used in jewellery item like rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces and more. The cymophane or the Ceylon cats eye is the most valuable and expensive gem of all the cat’s eyes gemstones in the market. The chatoyancy quality of, the cut of the gem and the color are the main factors that decide the prices that they can fetch in the market. 

A stone with a distinct, straight and silver-white well-centered band would be considered to be of the best quality and fetches the best price. A semi-transparent honey color, with the honey color on one side of the band and milky appearance on the other (when light falls on the stone) is considered the most desirable color. In the market this gem can range anywhere from $15 to $2500 per carat.

The finest gemstones that are used in cat’s eye jewellery are mined in Sri Lanka, while fine and good quality gem are also found in India, Brazil, Burma and Madagascar. The gem is in high demand in Japan and Hong Kong for use in finger rings. In India, it has been found in a very big way in Orissa. It is also found in Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Bihar.   

Cat’s eye eradicates evil influences of ketu and diseases of mars. This protects the native from hidden enemies, mysterious dangers and diseases. One will be wealthy, protected from evil and imparts spiritualism, intuition, universality, subtleness and sensitivity. For businessmen, it is miraculous result giving stone as bestows by secret means. It is effective when kethu is malefic, to overcome ill reputations and increased rivalries. Those are prone to scandals & loss of reputation may use it. It relieves from fear of hardships and increases determination. It resembles a neem fruit with a silver streak. It also available in various colours.

Therapeutical Uses:

Cats eye protects from accidents, skin diseases and pimples.

Compatibility:

Cat’s eye can be worn by the ascendant or moon sign of Aries & Scorpio. It can also be worn by the person born in the asterism of moon (i.e, Ashwini, Makha & Moola). Persons with the birth dates 7, 16 & 25 can also wear this gem.

Caution: 

Cats eye should be avoided with ruby and pearl

Pooja procedure for wearing Cats Eye:

Pooja should be performed in the hora of mars on any Tuesday between 6.00 a.m to 7.00 a.m or 1.00 p.m to 3.00 p.m.

Materials for pooja: 

Red cloth, snake idol, horse gram, sweets, flowers & incense.

Procedure:

Spread the red cloth before the idol of snake. First wash the stone embedded ring milk followed by water. Then apply paste of sandal, vermillion (kumkum) on it and place it on the cloth. Light the lamps and burn incenses perform the pooja to the ring with flowers reciting ketu mantra. It should be worn in gold or silver on 2nd finger or 3 rd finger of right hand. The weight should be 3, 5 and 7 grams.

KETU MANTRA

“Ashwa dhwajaaya vidmahe, shoola hasthaaya dheemahi

Thanno ketu prachodayaath”   || 108 times ||

Offer some fruits and sweets, and then wear the ring. Additionally the wearer can donate the horse gram to get maximum benefit.

NATURAL EMERALD

According to Indian mythology, the name emerald was first translated from Sanskrit as “marakata,” meaning “the green of growing things.” The name as we know it now is believed to have come from an ancient Persian word, translated into Latin as “smaragdus,” and eventually over time, corrupted to “emerald”.

It is also known as Panna in Hindi. But emerald has different names like samarld, samardos, market and emaurde. This emerald gemstone is a mixture of mineral – a compound of beryllium, sillicate of aluminium and oxygen and the color of emerald is light or dark green. The price of gemstone is very high. 

They have graced Crown Jewels and embellished the thrones of some of the oldest dynasties in history. As a symbol of wealth and power they are unsurpassed. With their sparkling green lustre they are considered to be more precious than diamonds. And, carat for carat, they are the most expensive gems in the world. They are emeralds, the most precious of all gems.

If you were fortunate enough to possess an emerald that would fit into the palm of your hand, it could, depending on its quality, be worth over one million dollars. Why such a high price? A large part of the reason is that emeralds are rare gems. Emeralds are a type of beryl crystal. They are formed from a combination of the common elements aluminium and silicon with the rare element beryllium. Small amounts of trace elements, either chromium or vanadium, give the emerald its distinctive green tint.

Emeralds are the premier gems in the beryl family. For more than 4,000 years, emeralds have been among the most valuable of all jewels. In one of the rare cases where lore and fact coincide, emerald history really does begin in Egypt, where there actually was a "Cleopatra`s Mine." Mining in the desert south of Cairo near the Aswan Dam began before 2000 B.C. and continued until about 1200 A.D. Although emeralds were extracted for 2000 years before Cleopatra was born, her use and love of gems led to her name being attached to the mine, an association that remains.

For thousands of years the famous Cleopatra mines, to be found some 440 miles southeast of Cairo, were worked by the Egyptians and then the Romans and the Turks. Working long hours under the blistering heat of the Sun, and the darkness, heat and dust of the underground mines must have been a real ordeal for those ancient labourers. Yet the mines were worked continually from about 330 B.C.E right through until 1237 C.E. Egypt supplied the known world with emeralds throughout the Biblical period and through the Middle Ages.

In ancient times emeralds held a real fascination for the people. In addition to their exquisite beauty, they were coveted for their supposed magical and healing powers. Emeralds were, in fact, considered to be a cure for many diseases. They were also believed to be able to heighten fertility and sexual desire in females. As a result of such claims, Emeralds were greatly sought after and a profitable trade was established between Egypt and nations as far away as India.

Emerald is ruled by the planet of intelligence ` mercury `. It’s a green colored soft gem never comes without intermingling fibres within it and also the identification mark of the true gem. Emerald brings the native to the top of the academic or literary fields unless badly expected.

Therapeutical Uses

Emeralds aids in brain power development. It reduces sexual desire and passion. It controls asthma, chronic bronchitis, skin diseases, cure stammering, fear, amnesia, epilepsy, fickle mindedness, diarrhea, cardiac problems, insomnia and effects of poison. It helps those children who are having problems with brain, memory and speech related problems.

Compatibility

Emerald can be worn by the ascendant or moon sign of Gemini & Virgo. It can also be worn by the person born in the asterism of moon (i.e, Ashlesha, Jyeshta & Revathi). Emerald is a birthstone for the month of May and the persons with the birth dates 5, 14 & 23 can also wear this gem.

Recommendation of Natural Emerald according to Rashis.

Aries: Do not wear it. The ruling planet of Aries that is Mars doesn’t shares a pleasing relation with the planet Mercury of Green Emerald gemstone besides which, here it rules over the 3rd and 6th house of the horoscope chart which altogether doesn’t believed to be an auspicious combination. For this, Emerald should only be worn if the planet Mercury gets placed over 3rd and 6th house and that is only in major periods of Mercury.

Taurus: One can wear it and will be more beneficial if worn with diamond or white Pukhraj. The planet Venus of Taurus shares a friendly relation with the planet Mercury of Green Emerald besides which, here it rules over the 2nd & 5th house of the horoscope chart which makes a pleasant combination. This further makes a benefice arrangement and the Taurus natives would attain true benefits from the adoption of Emerald. It will bestow you with children, intelligence and fortune while on the other hand, wearing it along with the diamond would further enhance the positive shades upon the person.

Gemini: Good to wear as it is jeevan rattan for this lagan. The Gemini ascendants are ruled by planet Mercury only which is also the planet of Green Emerald Gemstone. Besides this, here Mercury rules over the 1st and 4th house which altogether makes a positive combination. So on, the gemstone Emerald is perceived to be truly beneficial for the Gemini natives as it could be called as their charm which will bring them all the goodness including health, wealth, education, happiness, peace and longevity in life. Besides this, the placement of Mercury in its own house would further enhance the fortune for the person while on the general part; these people should always wear an emerald.

Cancer: Not advised to wear. The Lord of Cancer ascendant that is Moon doesn’t share a friendly relation with the planet Mercury of Green Emerald Gemstone besides this, it rules over the 3rd & 12th houses of Cancer horoscopes which altogether is not perceived to be an auspicious combination. So on, Emerald doesn’t make a good combination with Cancer natives and they should only wear it, if Mercury gets placed over its own houses and that is for only major period.

Leo: It is advisable to wear it. It is even advisable for people whose mercury is malefic and is positioned in 3rd, 5th and 8th houses. They will have benefits from wearing this.

Virgo: As it is jeevan rattan for this lagan so wearing it will help in many ways.

Libra: Can be worn. And if worn with diamond can yield better results.

Scorpio: Can be worn only under specific conditions. Not advisable.

Sagittarius: Can wear it. But more advisable to wear it with yellow sapphire.

Capricorn: Can be worn.

Aquarius: Can be worn only under the specific conditions and that with blue sapphire.

Pisces: It can be worn only under some specific conditions in combination of other stones.

Note

 Newly married couples should avoid Panna as it destroys the sexual appeal and body lusture.

An Anniversary Gemstone Emerald

Just as a particular gemstone is believed to represent the month that a person is born in, there is a gemstone for every year of married life as well. This is referred to as an anniversary gem stone. Anniversaries like the 20th, 35th and 55th are considered to be significant for Emerald and are celebrated worldwide.

Caution

 Emerald should be avoided with pearl.

Pooja procedure for wearing Natural Emerald

Pooja should be performed in the hora of mercury on any Wednesday between 6.00 a.m to 7.00 a.m or 1.00 p.m to 2.00 p.m. It should be studded in a gold ring and should be worn on little finger of right hand. Emerald is effective for 3 years since the time of wearing.

 Materials for pooja

 Green cloth, green gram (moong dal), sweets, any flowers & incense.

Procedure

Spread the green cloth and put green gram over it. First wash the stone embedded ring milk followed by water. Then apply paste of sandal, vermillion (kumkum) on it and place it on the cloth. Light the lamps and burn incenses perform the pooja to the ring with flowers reciting budha mantra. Sweets are distributed to the family members.

BUDHA MANTRA

“Gaja dhwajaaya vidmahe, suka hasthaaya dheemahi

Thanno budha prachodayaath”   || 108 times ||

Offer some fruits and sweets, and then wear the ring. Additionally the wearer can donate the green gram to get maximum benefit.

Hessonite garnet (Gomed)

The garnet group includes a group of minerals that have been used since the Bronze as gemstones and abrasives.. The name "garnet" may come from either the Middle English word gernet meaning `dark red`, or the Latin granatus (“grain”), possibly a reference to the Punica granatum(“pomegranate”), a plant with red seeds similar in shape, size, and color to some garnet crystals. In Sanskrit it is known as Gomeda, cow`s urine colored gem, Rahu-ratna, Rahu`s gem, Pita rakta Mani, Orange gem, Tamo-mani, Rahu`s jewel.

Though there are various varieties of garnets that exist, the hessonite garnet or Gomed is the one in India. The hessonite garnet or Gomed is also called the Cinnamon stone because it was first found in Ceylon (now known as Sri Lanka), a land known for its spices. The hessonite garnet is also one of the popular gems in the Indian market and is popularly known as the gomedha or Gomed. The hessonite garnet gemstone is one of the Navagraha stones (stones that represent the nine planets that have a cosmic influence on all earthlings).

It represents the God of the Ascending/North lunar node (Rahu) in Indian astrology and is associated with past karma. Astronomically, Ketu and Rahu denote the points of intersection of the paths of the Sun and the Moon as they move along the celestial orbit. Therefore, Rahu and Ketu are respectively called the north and the south lunar nodes. According to Hindu mythology, Rahu is also the ‘Head of Demon Snake’ that swallows the sun or the moon causing eclipses to occur. It is believed that the shadow of Rahu  can plunge into any area of one`s life thereby taking over strong control and creating chaos in that sphere of life. Such an influence is known to lead to all kinds of delays in fulfilment of ambitions.

The hessonite garnet or Gomed is known to cure diseases caused by the affliction of Rahu and Saturn. This makes it the most favoured gemstone in the garnet group in the Indian market. It is believed that a natural hessonite garnet can guard against the bad influence of Rahu and can aid in speedy recovery to bring success in endeavours. The gemstone is also known to increase appetite, vitality, wealth, happiness and bring good health and prosperity to the wearer. The astrologers in India believe that this gem should be set in silver jewellery and worn in the middle finger to ensure maximum benefits. Renowned astrologers even ask to see the gem specimens to ensure that there are no inclusions that are visible to the naked eye and that the gem is flawless. 

Sir Lanka, the largest producer of the hessonite garnets, has produced fine quality gems for many centuries. Hessonite gem deposits have also been found in India, Mexico, Brazil, Thailand, Canada and Tanzania.

In India it is found in Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Rajasthan, Bihar, Jammu & Kashmir, Shimla, Mysore, and Kullu. Gaya mines in Bihar are the biggest source of this gem.  Recently, very good quality of this gem has been found in Orissa.

Currently, the world`s largest supply of garnets is the continent of Africa. In December 1996, a student in Central Australia discovered what is thought to be the largest single garnet ever found - measuring nearly one hundred feet across! Other sources of garnet include India, Soviet Union, Brazil and the United States.

Garnet birthstone is for the people born in the month of January. It is also called as the January birthstone.

The rarest of the garnets is the colour changing deep blue garnet, which was discovered in the late 1990s in Madagascar. This rare gem deposit is also mined in parts of the United States, Russia and Turkey. It changes colour from blue-green in the daylight to purple in incandescent light, as a result of the high amounts of vanadium.

Other varieties of colour changing garnets exist too. In daylight, if you hold it in your hand and look at it, their colour is likely to be shades of green, beige, brown, gray or blue. But in incandescent light, these very garnets appear reddish or purplish or pink in colour. Because of their colour changing quality, this kind of garnet is often mistaken for an alexandrite.

Orange spessartite garnet is also called as mandarin garnet.

Garnet may be given as a gem on the 2nd and 6th wedding anniversary.

Therapeutical Uses:

Gomedh controls indigestion, skin disease, snake bites, insomnia, hysteria, dog bite, blood poisoning and also undiagnosed diseases. It aids mental depression, arthritis, thyroid complaints and nightmares. It is good for those suffering from allergies, skin disorders, piles, epilepsy, infection of eyes, colds, sinus infection, fatigue, tiredness, BP, hearth ailments, infections in upper part of the body.

Compatibility:

Gomedh can be worn by the ascendant or moon sign of Aquarius & Capricorn. It can also be worn by the person born in the asterism of moon (i.e., Aridhra & Swathi). Gomedh is a birthstone for January and the persons with the birth dates 4, 13, 22 & 31 can also wear this gem.

Caution:

 Gomedh should not be worn with ruby or pearl.

Pooja procedure for wearing Gomedh:

Pooja should be performed in the hora of Saturn on any Saturday between 6.00 a.m to 7.00 a.m or 1.00 p.m to 2.00 p.m or can also be worn in late nights or in Rahu kaal. It should be worn in silver (well polished) on the middle finger (2nd finger) of right hand and the weight should be 6, 11, 13 grams.

Materials for pooja:

 An idol of snake, black cloth, black gram, any flowers & incense.

Procedure:

Spread the black cloth before the idol of snake. First wash the stone embedded ring milk followed by water. Then apply paste of sandal, vermillion (kumkum) on it and place it on the cloth. Light the lamps and burn incenses perform the pooja to the ring with flowers reciting Rahu mantra.

RAHU MANTRA

“Naaga dhwajaaya vidmahe, padma hasthaaya dheemahi

Thanno rahu prachodayaath”   || 108 times ||

Offer some fruits and sweets, and then wear the ring. Additionally the wearer can donate the black gram and 22 coins of same denomination to get maximum benefit.

Pearl

Sanskrit texts on gemology- in a metaphysical, genre called Ratnapariksa or ‘appreciation of gems’ – believe pearls join diamonds, emeralds, rubies and sapphires as the five God-given stones, or Maharatni. The millennia-old Vedic prayer of Atharvan invokes their special power: “Born of the wind and the air / Born of flashing lightening and starlight/ May this shell and in it this pearl protect us from danger”. The 13th century Ratnapariksa of Thakkura Pheru, assaymaster of Delhi’s Sultan Alauddin Khalji, describes the fable of the demon Bala, who supposedly offered himself as a sacrifice to Lord Indra. In reward, Indra transformed his teeth into pearls, his bones into diamonds and his eyes into sapphires.

Long known as the `Queen of Gems` real pearls was once the exclusive property of the rich and powerful. No one can say who `discovered` pearls - probably they were first found by ancient peoples searching the shores for food. The Romans and Egyptians prized pearls and used them as decorative items as far back as the 5th Century BC. Chinese records mention them earlier still.

Cleopatra is said to have crushed a pearl into a glass of wine to prove to Marc Antony that she could give the most expensive dinner in history.

At the height of the Roman Empire a general paid for a military campaign by selling a pair of his mother`s pearl earrings. History does not record what his mother had to say about this.

Famous pearl wearers include Queen Elizabeth 1 of England, Jaqueline Kennedy and Elizabeth Taylor.

Pearls have a place in Hindu, Islamic and Christian traditions - often to symbolise purity and perfection.

Pearls have mesmerized us with its simple sublime beauty.   From China, Japan, Russia, and India pearls coveted such high regard that they were once restricted only to royalty.  Unlike other precious gems, their natural beauty and luster does not need human intervention.  Pearls are beautiful just as they are because they do not need to be cut or polished.  Their natural beauty is part of their timeless appeal, and women from Cleopatra to Marilyn Monroe have loved pearls and pearl jewellery.  

The Persian Gulf, Bahrain, was the largest resource of pearls because the sweet and salt waters in their area produced lustrous pearls.  In the 1930s, this industry ended when the discovery of oil in that area polluted the waters and thus changed the focus of trade from pearls to oil.  Today, Japan, Australia, French Polynesia, Micronesian Islands, and parts of the United States are sources of pearls, but China remains the major source of pearls in the commercial world. 

The difference between wild and cultured pearls focuses on whether the pearl was created spontaneously by nature – without human intervention – or with human aid. Pearls are formed inside the shell of certain mollusks as a defense mechanism against a potentially threatening irritant such as a parasite inside its shell, or an attack from outside, injuring the mantle tissue. The mollusk creates a pearl sac to seal off the irritation.

The mantle of the mollusk deposits layers of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) in the form of the mineral aragonite or a mixture of aragonite and calcite (polymorphs with the same chemical formula, but different crystal structures) held together by an organic horn-like compound called conchiolin.. The combination of aragonite and conchiolin is called nacre, which makes up mother-of-pearl. The commonly held belief that a grain of sand acts as the irritant is in fact rarely the case. Typical stimuli include organic material, parasites, or even damage that displaces mantle tissue to another part of the mollusk`s body. These small particles or organisms gain entry when the shell valves are open for feeding or respiration. In cultured pearls, the irritant is typically an introduced piece of the mantle epithelium, together or without a spherical bead (beaded or beadless cultured pearls).

Pearl is ruled by the cool planet moon. Pure saltwater pearls are rare and highly recommended for reducing mental agitations and marital discords. Wearing of pearl will protect the native from harmful effects of afflicted moon. White and Red pearls are the best. Round pearls are superior and flat type should never be worn.

Therapeutical Uses

Pearl cures mental disorders, gastric disorders, asthma, breathing troubles and lungs disorders. Pearl in combination with other stones may help to cure and fight diseases like- Heart disease, anaemia, kidney problem, diabetes, insomnia, insanity, asthma, eye trouble, hypertension, brain tumor, menstrual disorder and pancreatic problems. It also gives good memory and helps to cure insomnia, eye diseases uterine problems, heart problems, T.B., constipation, hysteria etc.

Benefits of wearing pearl

Pearl is used to remove the evil effects of moon and in turn it strengthens the mind force and increases the good sleep. Pearl is very useful for ladies as it increases the beauty and facial luster. It develops good harmony between husband and wife. Pearl in combination with Rudraksha helps to solve problems related to depression and pessimism. It inspires love and faith between the two partners.

Compatibility

Pearls can be worn by the ascendant or moon sign of cancer. It can also be worn by the person born in the asterisms of moon (i.e, Rohini, Hastha & Shravana). Pearl is a birthstone for june and the persons with the birth dates 2, 11, 20 & 29 can also wear this gem.

Caution

 Pearl should not be worn with cat’s eye, emerald, gomedh, Diamond & Blue Sapphire or sub-gemstones of any of these stones.

Pearl according to the rashis

Aries: For Aries ascendant, Moon is the Lord of 4th house. In addition, it is also a friend of the ascendant Lord, Moon, due to which, it is considered most auspicious for person of Aries ascendant; this will increase mental peace, motherly pleasure and will get education.

Taurus: For Taurus ascendant, Moon is the Lord of 3rd house. Person of this Lagna should never wear Pearl.

Gemini: For people of Gemini ascendant, Moon is the Lord of 2nd house (house of money). Person of this ascendant should wear this stone only during Moon Mahadasha or Antardasha. 2nd house is also called Maarkesh. So, as much as possible the person of Gemini ascendant should avoid wearing this stone. 

Cancer: For Cancer ascendant, Moon becomes the lord of the ascendant and becomes auspicious. Wearing this is good for health and increases age.

Leo: In Leo ascendant, Moon is the Lord of 12th house. People of this ascendant should not wear Pearl.

Virgo: In this ascendant, Cancer sign becomes the sign of 11th house. The people of Virgo ascendant should wear Pearl, the stone of Cancer sign Moon, only in Moon Mahadasha and Antardasha.

Libra: Wearing Pearl gives fame, respect, paternal pleasure and increases interest in religious works to the people of Libra Ascendant.

Scorpio: For Scorpio Ascendant, Moon is the Lord of 9th house, which is the house of fortune. This makes Pearl the most favourable stone for Scorpio ascendant.

Sagittarius: For this ascendant, Moon is the Lord of 8th house. Sagittarius ascendant people should never wear Pearl. 

Capricorn: For Capricorn ascendant, Moon is the Lord of 7th house which is a Maarak house, due to which; Pearl should be worn only in special cases in Moon Mahadasha. Blue Sapphire is the most auspicious stone for this ascendant.

Aquarius: Moon is the Lord of 6th house for Aquarius ascendant. Person of Aquarius ascendant should never wear Pearl stone.

Pisces: Moon is the Lord of Trikon house for Pisces Ascendant. This house is considered auspicious. Wearing stone of this house brings auspicious results like child, education and intellect for people of Pisces ascendant.

Pooja procedure for wearing pearl

Pooja should be performed in the hora of moon on any Monday between 6.00 am to 7.00 am or 8.00 p.m to 9.00 p.m.

Materials for Pooja

Silver plate, rice, jasmine flowers, incense and photo of shiva & parvathi.

Procedure

Spread the rice in the silver plate. First wash the stone embedded ring milk followed by water. Then apply paste of sandal, vermillion (kumkum) on it and place it on the plate. Light the lamps and burn incenses perform the pooja to the ring with jasmine flowers reciting Chandra mantra.

CHANDRA MANTRA

“Padma dhwajaaya vidmahe, Hema roopaaya dheemahi

Thanno soma prachodayaath”   || 108 times ||

Offer some fruits and sweets, and then wear the ring. Additionally the wearer can donate the milk to get maximum benefit.

YELLOW SAPPHIRE

The word ‘Sapphire’ is derived from ‘Sapphirus’, which is Latin for blue. When the word sapphire is used it actually means the beautiful blue sapphire. However, in India the yellow sapphire is the most popular gemstone after diamond, due to its significance in Indian astrology. The yellow sapphire is commonly known as Pukhraj or Pushparaga in the Indian market.

Yellow sapphire is one of the Navagraha stones (stones that represent the nine planets that have a cosmic influence on all earthlings) representing the planet Jupiter (Guru) and is related to the spiritual teacher. It has a special significance in Indian astrology and in ancient Indian Vedic literature. It is said to have many healing powers and it also has an important place in the study of star signs. 

The sapphire family is among the oldest recognized gems. Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, is the home of the oldest known sapphire digs Most of the world`s yellow sapphires are still found there, although there are some found in Tanzania. Throughout history, sapphire has been noted as a regal gem. Kings and queens have worn them, not only for decoration but also as a talisman offering a powerful defence against harm.

A gem of the corundum family, yellow sapphire is a twin of ruby and blue sapphire. It is found in yellow, golden, and orange colors, as well as in a colorless variety known as white sapphire. The best gem is said to be of lemon-yellow color.

Facts about Yellow Sapphire

·         It is believed that a real yellow sapphire can cure a poisonous insect bite if it is immediately rubbed on the affected skin.

·         If an individual is suffering from issues caused by an ill-aligned Jupiter, yellow sapphires are thought to aid in healing.

Therapeutical Uses

Yellow sapphire controls the functioning of liver, jaundice, anaemia, blood pressure, gastric troubles and fever, catarrh, circulation of blood in the arteries and fat in the body also cure disorders of pancreas, tumors, skin troubles, cerebral congestion, dropsy, flatulence, dyspepsia, abscess.

Compatibility

Yellow sapphire can be worn by the ascendant or moon sign of Sagittarius & Pisces. It can also be worn by the person born in the asterism of moon (i.e., Punarvasu, Vishaka & Purvabhadra). Yellow sapphire is a birthstone for November and the persons with the birth dates 3, 12, 21 & 30 can also wear this gem.

Caution

 Yellow sapphire should not be worn with blue sapphire, diamond, emerald or gomedh.

Pooja procedure for wearing yellow sapphire

Pooja should be performed in the hora of Jupiter on any Thursday between 6.00 a.m to 7.00 a.m or 1.00 p.m to 2.00 p.m. It should be wear in gold on first finger (Index Finger). In the natal chart, if Jupiter is in any start where Sun is transiting, like Kritika, U Phalguni or U Ashada, yellow sapphire will give beneficial results.

Materials for pooja

Dark yellow cloth, Bengal gram, marigold flowers & incense.

Procedure

Spread the rice over the yellow cloth before the god. First wash the stone embedded ring milk followed by water. Then apply paste of sandal, vermillion (kumkum) on it and place it on the cloth. Light the lamps and burn incenses perform the pooja to the ring with marigold flowers reciting guru mantra.

GURU MANTRA

“Vrishaba dhwajaaya vidmahe, Gruni hasthaaya dheemahi

Thanno guru prachodayaath”   || 108 times ||