Since the beginning of recorded history, almost every culture – Indian, Egyptian, Mayan and Greek, as well as many indigenous peoples – has placed an extraordinary amount of value on precious gems. Gems came to be used in astrology to counteract what were believed to be the negative influences of the planets. In ancient Eastern medicine, gemstones and gem elixirs also played a role in traditional healing practices.
Even today, some cultures and certain spiritually inclined individuals attach metaphysical properties to gemstones. They generally believe, unscientifically, that gemstones are composed of minute crystals in constant motion, and that each gemstone emits a specific energy frequency or vibration capable of influencing the human body or state of mind.
This is achieved through what is commonly referred to as ‘crystal therapy’. Crystals may be carried or worn on the body, often in direct contact with the skin, or placed in close proximity so that their so-called healing vibrations may be felt. Crystal elixirs are produced by soaking crystals for several hours in water or other drinkable liquids.
Healing stones, also known as ‘chakra stones’, are associated with both colour and vibration and are believed to bring balance to the seven major chakras and numerous minor chakras that, according to these belief systems, make up the human energy field. Some gemstones are said to influence more than one chakra, and there are many different gemstones associated with each.
Sounds confusing? For the uninitiated, yes – but very real to those who hold these beliefs.
Jyotish – the art of Vedic healing.
As early as 3000 BC, various Vedic texts made reference to the use of gemstones in both astrology and healing. These writings describe nine astrological gemstones, each representing one of the nine major planetary bodies recognised in Vedic astrology.
Jyotish is a highly developed belief system originating in ancient Asia, combining concepts drawn from mineralogy, planetary science and gemmology with the principles of Vedic astrology. In India and other parts of the world, the influence of Jyotish remains widespread. A non-profit body, the Planetary Gemologists Association (PGA), has been established to promote and regulate these practices.
The Jyotish gemstone list may be compared to the Western birthstone tradition. However, the standards applied to Jyotish gemstones are far stricter. These gemstones must be completely natural, unenhanced and exceptionally clean (with the exception of ruby and emerald), exhibit excellent cut, colour and clarity, and most importantly, possess what believers describe as a harmonious or ‘sattvic’ quality. Jyotish gemstones are also required to be unusually large, typically weighing more than five carats.
If you are interested in understanding your Jyotish planetary association, consultation with a reputable and certified planetary gemmologist is recommended.
Please note: Prins & Prins and its gemmologists are unfortunately unable to advise on or support these esoteric belief systems. Our approach to gemstones is firmly grounded in science, geology and gemmology. We value gemstones as rare and remarkable natural materials, to be appreciated for their beauty, durability and geological history, and above all as symbols marking life’s most important milestones.
If, for some individuals, gemstones also contribute to a sense of personal balance or well-being, that may be regarded as an additional and personal interpretation.
JYOTISH GEMS TABLE
| Planet | Primary Gemstone | Positive Influences | Protection Influences |
| Sun | Ruby | Promotes nobility, dignity and power. Increased confidence. | Protects from low self-esteem and rebellious intuition. |
| Moon | Natural Pearl | Promotes sensitivity, stability and health. Increased respect and prosperity. | Protects from over-reaction, stress, depression and over-sensitivity. |
| Jupiter | Yellow Sapphire | Promotes spiritualism and optimism. Encourages teaching and leadership. | Protects from greed, selfishness and egotism. |
| Mars | Red Coral | Promotes originality and insightfulness. Encourages prosperity. | Protects from mental illness, addiction and suicidal thoughts. |
| Rahu | Hessonite | Promotes rationality and dexterity. Enhances reputation. | Protects from low concentration and deceptive behaviour. |
| Mercury | Emerald | Promotes grace, elegance and positive qualities. | Protects from vanity, loss of libido and rapid ageing. |
| Venus | Diamond | Promotes intuition and refinement. Encourages prosperity. | Protects from emotional instability, gambling and excess. |
| Saturn | Blue Sapphire | Promotes discipline, humility and responsibility. | Protects from depression, anxiety and mental instability. |
| Ketu | Chrysoberyl Cat’s Eye | Promotes courage, compassion and optimism. | Protects from anger, irritability and impatience. |
In conclusion: Belief systems such as Jyotish form an important part of cultural and historical traditions surrounding gemstones. While these interpretations lie outside the scientific study of gemmology, they illustrate humanity’s enduring fascination with the natural world. At Prins & Prins, we respect the cultural significance of these traditions while remaining committed to a factual, geological understanding of gemstones as rare, beautiful and enduring creations of nature.