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Navaratna (GEM) Therapy Dr Uday Dokras CHIEF CONSULTANT RUDRAKSHA VAASTU & SHANI SHANTI VASTU Top quality and flawless ruby is the gem for the Sun, natural pearl for the Moon, red coral for Mars, emerald for Mercury yellow sapphire for Jupiter, diamond for Venus, blue sapphire for Saturn, hessonite for Rahu (ascending lunar node), and cat's eye for Ketu (descending lunar node." māṇikyaṃ taraṇeḥ sujātyamamalaṃ muktāphalaṃ śītagoḥ māheyasya ca vidrumaṃ marakataṃ saumyasya gārutmatama devejyasya ca puṣparājamasurācāryasya vajraṃ śaneḥ nīlaṃ nirmalamanyayośca gadite gomedavaidūryake Parichad-Jataka (chapter 2, verse 21, page 35–36) Hinduism is the starting point of the holistic healing art of Ayurveda, of which Jyotish or Vedic astrology is a part. Gemstone healing is an important healing tool used in Vedic astrology as gems have the ability to create balance in the body and get it rid of diseases and 1 ailments. This therapy can be used by an expert to heal the body, mind, and spirit of an individual, provided used in relation to the study of planetary influences in his natal chart. In addition to this , ancient Hinduism also has some great legends related to the origin of various gemstones and how they came into being and found use in astrological healing later on.Here are some ways in which gem therapy is used in Hinduism to neutralize the ill effects of planets or enhance their positive effects. The word Navaratna has equivalent translations as below, each culture largely reflects the same core concepts of the values of the stones, and their significance. Some specific settings of the stones hold unique relevance in particular countries however such importance is given to this combination of nine gems that they are recognised as sacred in almost all the countries of Asia, including, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia, regardless of religious and cultural differences. Translation of Navaratna  Navaratna in Sinhalese , Sanskrit, Hindi, Nepali, Kannada, Burmese, and Indonesian  Navarathinam in Tamil  Navarathnalu in Telugu  Navarathnam in Malayalam  Navaratna in Sinhalese  Nawaratna in Malay  Nawarat or Noppharat in Thai Recognition in Thailand In Thailand, the Navaratna is officially recognised as a national and royal symbol of the king. A high award given by the king is called "Noppharat Ratchawaraphon" (the Ancient Auspicious Order of the Nine Gems) Ribbon of the Order 2 The decoration consists of a single class (Knight). The insignia is:  Pendant of the Nine Gems, on a yellow sash with a red, blue and green trims, worn over the right shoulder of the left hip (for men). For women, the Pendant of the Nine Gems is attached onto a silk ribbon, worn on the front left shoulder.  Star of the Nine Gems, to wear on the left chest  Gold Ring of the Nine Gems, for men, to wear on the right ring finger. Late Thai astrologer Horacharn Thep Sarikabutr has given the meaning of these nine gems in his Parichad-Jataka (chapter 2, verse 21, page 35–36) translated as follows. "Top quality and flawless ruby is the gem for the Sun, natural pearl for the Moon, red coral for Mars, emerald for Mercury yellow sapphire for Jupiter, diamond for Venus, blue sapphire for Saturn, hessonite for Rahu (ascending lunar node), and cat's eye for Ketu (descending lunar node)." Healing Energy Fields of Gemstone According to the ancient Jyotish science of Hinduism, each stone associated with a planet. Each planet has its own color which corresponds to the color vibration of its stone. The healing gemstone acts as a filter and absorbs and reflects these color energy fields and balances their effect on the human body. avaratna Sanskrit compound word meaning "nine gems" or "ratnas". Jewellery created in this style has important cultural significance in across many southern, and south-eastern Asian cultures as a symbol of wealth, status, and also as having other talismanic benefits to health and wellbeing. The setting of the stones is believed to hold mystical powers, tied to astrology, mythology and intrinsically linked to the Indian religions of Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism. The ancient origin of the significance behind the nine gems has proved impossible to trace but is inherently tied to mythological concepts around cosmology and astrology and the "Navagrahas", or "nine celestial gods". The stones are often set within gold or silver jewellery with a ruby as the centrepiece representing the Sun. Each additional stone around the ruby then represents another celestial body within the solar system, or a node, in addition to representing metaphysical concepts of good fortune, and the characteristics and personalities of religious figures. For traditional purposes and the purported health benefits, the arrangement of the stones and their position to the body is of particular significance, as is the quality of the gemstones. 3 The positive vibrations of the gemstones neutralize the negative ones of the planets and protect the wearer from them. The ancient Vedic text Brihat Samhita throws light on the healing influences of various gemstones. Hindu astrology, even suggests cheaper alternatives for natives who do not have the financial resources to invest in the more expensive healing stones. Use of Jyotish gemstones according to Hindu astrology  According to Hindu astrology gemstones are either worn in the form of rings and pendants, in such a manner that they are in contact with the skin of the wearer so that the cosmic rays may be transmitted in his body.  There are different fingers recommended for wearing different gemstone rings, while pendants need to touch the heart or throat chakra of the wearer to be properly effective.  Another manner in which healing gemstones have been used in Hinduism is in the form of gem tinctures. Like herb tinctures, gem tinctures are prepared by soaking the gemstones in 50-100% alcohol solution for a certain period of time.  For instance, the preparation of diamond or sapphire tincture involves soaking the gemstones for a one month period, starting from one full moon to the other.  On the other hand, organic stone like corals and pearls are soaked in weaker solutions for shorter time intervals. Gem ash can be prepared by burning them and making them safe for ingestion by humans.  Traditionally, bhasma or gem ash is considered as a quick healer, which makes it even more expensive as compared to the gemstone itself.  The basis of healing powers and techniques related to astrological gemstones in Hinduism may be different as that used in Western astrology, but the fact remains is that both the systems revere the gemstones for their healing powers.  Both rely on the natural color balancing powers of gemstones as the mainstay of the study of their individual healing powers. Gems for Health About Gemstones and Gem Therapy Jyotish is the Vedic astrological system, of which Ayurveda was once a part. This astrological system notes that gems are related to the various planets and produce a balancing effect to 4 counter specific diseases. It is a primary method of a Jyotish astrologer's therapeutic measures to heal physical, mental, and spiritual situations, based on one's astrology chart indicators. It is known that planets produce effects on humans. For example, the full moon not only causes high tides but also affects the emotions of some people. The gemstones were studied and used to neutralize these effects. Energy Waves The ancient Ayurvedic researchers studied the healing properties of gems and found that different stones created different effects in the human body. The planets were seen to have corresponding colors. The color or vibration of the gems affects the human body. They absorb and reflect (like a filter) the planetary rays or vibrations. Thus, gems relate to specific energy waves. It was found that the gems associated with each planet have varying wavelengths. [see table] The planetary vibrations are negative, while the radiation of the stones is positive. When the positive and negative vibrations are combined, they are neutralized. Just as an umbrella or sunscreen protects one from the sun, so gems protect one from the influence of the planets. Healing Powers In ancient Vedic texts, like the Brihat Samhita, the origin and healing powers of various gems are discussed. Persons may use substitute stones instead of the more expensive gems. Red garnet can replace ruby; moonstone can replace pearl; jade, peridot, or green tourmaline can replace emerald; and yellow topaz or citrine can replace yellow sapphire. [see table] Vedic astrology or Jyotish suggests wearing gems and ingesting them internally (after a long heating process to make them safe), or as gem tinctures. Stones worn as rings and pendants are mounted so as to touch the skin. Pendants should touch the heart or throat chakras, and rings with different gemstones should be worn on various fingers, as the elements dictate. Gem Tinctures Gem tinctures are prepared like herb tinctures. Gems are soaked for some time in a 50%-100% alcohol solution. Diamonds or sapphires (hard gems) are soaked from one full moon to the next full moon (one month). Opaque stones - pearls, coral (soft stones) - are soaked for shorter time periods or in weaker solutions. Special Ayurvedic preparations exist in which gems are burnt into ash. This removes their harmful effects, enabling them to be ingested. Traditionally, gems were crushed and/or burnt in 5 long processes to make ash. Sometimes they are taken alone, sometimes they are mixed with herbs. Gem ash (bhasma) is more costly than herbs, but healing is quicker. Currently, they are not imported into the United States due to the lack of understanding of their safety. 5 Fingers, 5 Elements Each finger is related to one of the five elements. The pinky is earth, the ring finger is water, the middle finger is air, the index finger is ether, and the thumb is fire. The planets correspond to this system as well: Mercury - earth, the sun or moon - water, Saturn - air, Jupiter - ether. No specific planet rules the fire. Precious gems are worn as rings in 2-carat (minimum) and 5-carat pendants. Substitute stones are worn as rings in 4-carat (minimum) and 7-carat pendants. Determinations of planetary therapies are made differently than in Western Astrology. Vedic Origin of Gems The Garuda Purana, an ancient Vedic text, includes a discussion of the science of gemology. This mythology-based story may have semantic parallels in modern scientific terminology, just as the seven deities of the sun are analogous to the seven colors of the spectrum (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet) in Vedic Astrology. Thus, it is hoped that interested readers will seek out the parallels between these Vedic descriptions and modern science, rather than doubt its authenticity merely because of the use of words like "gods" and "demons". The Legend of Vala Once, a very powerful demon, Vala, caused trouble for all the gods in the universe. After much hardship, the gods developed a plan to capture Vala and kill him. Once dead, Vala was cut into pieces. His limbs were transformed into the seeds of precious gems. All the creatures of the universe rushed to gather the gem seeds. In the clamor some of the gem seeds fell to earth, dropping into rivers, oceans, forests, and mountains. There they developed into mother lodes. Vala's blood became ruby seeds and fell over India, Burma, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal, Tibet, Sri Lanka, and ancient Siam. His teeth became pearl seeds that spread throughout the oceans of Sri Lanka, Bengal, Persia, Indonesia, and other bodies of water in the southern hemisphere. The skin of Vala became yellow sapphire seeds, plummeting mainly to the Himalayas. Vala's fingernails became hessonite garnet seeds that fell into lotus ponds of Sri Lanka, India, and Burma. His bile became emerald seeds and fell into the mountain ranges of modern day South Africa, South America, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Vala's bones became diamond seeds. His war cry became the cat's eye gem seeds. Blue sapphire seeds were transformed from Vala's eyes. 6 Coral seed was transformed from his intestines. Vala's toenails became red garnet seeds. His body fat became jade seeds. Quartz crystal seeds were transformed from his semen. Vala's complexion was transformed into bloodstone coral seeds. The word navaratna means "nine gems" in the ancient Sanskrit language of India. The ancient seers of India discovered long ago that certain gemstones could be used in a therapeutic manner for specific types of diseases and spiritual ailments. In fact, certain gemstones were found to have extraordinary healing effects when worn on the body after being properly prepared with mantras, spiritual rituals, and other empowerment processes. The nine major gemstones used in traditional gem therapy include: Ruby, Pearl, Red Coral, Emerald, Yellow Sapphire, Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Hessonite Garnet, and Catseye Chrysoberyl. These nine gemstones have been correlated with the nine cosmic forces (navagraha) which are used in traditional Hindu-Vedic Astrology (jyotisha). The nine cosmic forces are associated with the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, North Node of the Moon, and South Node of the Moon. The various astrological patterns found in a person's birthchart (janma kundali) which indicate affliction, disease, and other troubles can, to a certain extent, be neutralized by the proper, therapeutic use of gemstones. Hence the popularity of gem therapy in those countries where there is a strong astrological tradition. The secrets of the science of gem therapy have, for the most part, remained inaccessible to most residents of Western countries. The books which have been translated into the English language deal primarily with the exoteric, or external, aspects of gem therapy. Helping the reader to choose the right type of gemstone for a particular problem appears to be the main goal of the authors. The authors do not make much mention of the esoteric, or hidden, aspects of traditional gem therapy, which involve complex Vedic or Tantric rituals and empowerment ceremonies of a quasi-magical nature. That knowledge remains withheld from public knowledge, and has traditionally been reserved for those who are fortunate enough to receive personal instruction in this knowledge from a living Master, in the tradition of guruparampara, wherein private, oral instructions are given from teacher to disciple. Only those who are deemed qualified for such knowledge (adhikara) are given "secret" knowledge by the Guru. Those who have not been initiated into this knowledge can only guess at what is really happening at the psycho-spiritual level, during the empowerment ceremonies and rituals. 7 The true potential of the therapeutic usage of gemstones has not been realized in the West, due to another reason--the materialistic orientation of popular Western culture. There is a common and popular idea that anyone buy a book on gem therapy, go to a jeweler, select and purchase a certain type of gemstone, wear it in a haphazard manner, and thereby neutralize some of their "bad karmas" from past lifetimes. This approach has much appeal to those who have no time or interest in traditional spiritual practices like Yoga, mantra japa, selfless service, pilgrimage, and charitable acts. Perhaps these people believe that they can find relief from their past karmas merely by purchasing and wearing an expensive gemstone? In the Old Testament there is a quotation from a prophet who says that "God is not mocked". There is no easy way out of our predicaments in life. We have to pay our karmic dues, one way or another, and merely spending money on an expensive gemstone may not necessarily change our character, our behavior patterns, or our belief system. We cannot hide behind our material possessions, thinking that they can be a substitute for self-examination and self-transformation. There must be involvement in some kind of a conscious spiritual process, even with gem therapy; otherwise it becomes banal, and ultimately a vain and vapid exercise in pseudospirituality. It is the specific crystalline molecular structure of the various gemstones which provides it with the capacity to store, and even amplify, a certain type of thought-energy. The gemstone itself has no capacity for intelligent thought or the exercise of free will. It requires your input, or someone else's input, in an empowerment process which results it the creation of a spiritual talisman--a living transceiver of spiritual energies programmed to have a very specific effect. The therapeutic effects of a gemstone are multiplied a thousandfold through the empowerment process of mantra, invocations, spiritual ceremonies and rituals. The imprinting, or programming, of a gemstone with Vedic and Tantric mantras, prayers, invocations, and thoughtforms is considered essential for realizing the full potential of gem therapy. Wearing a gemstone without the invocations for spiritual empowerment is somewhat like owning a computer which has no useful software programming on the hard disk drive. You may own something valuable, but you have not realized its full potential yet. Another popular source of information concerning gem therapy comes through the writings of contemporary "New Age" oriented authors, most of whom channel novel messages from invisible spiritual guides. My concern about these teachings which come from channeled sources 8 is: Who (if anyone) will test and verify these teachings? What is the proof that these new teachings are authentic, truthful, helpful, and beneficial? Only time, testing, and experience will determine the value of these writings. However, my own observation is that most contemporary readers tend to blindly accept what they read, and the more speculative and unprovable a teaching may be, the more likely it is to be accepted as "Truth" by the gullible! What happened to discrimination, discernment, and the "scientific method" of testing hypotheses before accepting them? The scientific method, which has so strongly influenced Western civilization for hundreds of years, is often ignored when the subjects of religion, spirituality and metaphysics are broached. In India, there is immense respect for traditional knowledge. Knowledge only becomes respectable and part of the tradition of this culture when it has been tested by millions of people over a period of thousands of years. Also, the ancient seers of spiritual knowledge had more credibility than the typical modern writer because of their exemplary qualities of saintly personal conduct, their perpetual engagement in spiritual austerities, meditation, and prayer, and their selfless service to humanity. The traditional knowledge of gem therapy developed by these seers is therefore worthy of investigation by modern aspirants. If the ancient theories concerning gem therapy were not true, the hypotheses would have been discarded long ago. Over time, truth will prevail. There is one major shortcoming with traditional gem therapy. Because of the expense of the high quality, larger size gemstones which are typically prescribed by traditional gem therapists, gem therapy has remained the domain of royalty and wealthy merchants until modern times. As an example, a one carat flawless diamond would cost upwards of $10,000 U.S., and is beyond the reach of many people. And even now, despite the phenomena of the "wealth effect" of a strong economy in America affecting many strata of society, a significant portion of the population faces financial hardship in their efforts to purchase a high-quality gemstone for therapeutic purposes. As an alternative to purchasing a high quality gemstone or some other form of talismanic jewelry, the traditional gem therapists of India have developed the complementary science of preparing and prescribing gem elixirs. The energetic quality of high quality gemstones can be scientifically and magically transferred to a liquid solution through a special, alchemical process, 9 and the healing qualities of the elixir can be amplified manifold through mantra, yantra, spiritual rituals, and other empowerment ceremonies. By consuming a few drops daily of Navaratna Gem Elixir, an individual can derive most of the benefits of wearing all nine of the principal gemstones utilized in traditional gem therapy--and at a tiny fraction of the cost of purchasing and wearing the gemstones in talismanic jewelry. Now people from all economic backgrounds can participate in an affordable form of traditional gem therapy. We now offer to discerning clients a traditionally prepared Navaratna Gem Elixir. It has been prepared in strict accordance with the Vedic and Tantric traditions: 1. Prepared using the purest spring water from Mount Shasta, California, a sacred site famous for spiritual healing. 2. Prepared using the best quality, large size, authentic Vedic gemstones specially chosen for their therapeutic value: Ruby, Pearl, Red Coral, Emerald, Yellow Sapphire, Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Hessonite Garnet, and Catseye Chrysoberyl. 3. Prepared on an astrologically auspicious time and date, with traditional Tantra, Yantra, Mantra, Puja, and Vedic chanting. 4. Prepared in the most hygienic conditions, using sterilized, modern equipment, and preserved with 40 percent grain alcohol. 5. Prepared by devotees who observe the traditional injunctions of the Dharma Shastras (Vedic scriptures) concerning pure diet, yoga sadhana, and moral conduct. 10 HEAT TREATED GEMSTONE If you’re not a gemstone expert, the concept of treating gems using heat may sound pretty random and confusing. A whole host of questions come to mind for the gemstone novice when it comes to heat treated gems. What does heat do to gemstones and why would people even think to expose gems to high heat? How are gemstones heated and how does this affect the value? Is a heated gemstone still considered natural? In the spirit of the summer months, it seems like its time to discuss heat and answer all of the questions. So turn up your air conditioner, grab a cool drink and get ready for a heated discussion on gemstone heat treatments! Heating history Centuries ago, the first practitioners of this art form would physically blow air through crafted straws of bamboo into a charcoal fire where stones were placed into the coals to lure the color to deepen, lighten or change. Miners, buyers and brokers around the World still use the traditional methods as well as modern, ‘more refined’ approaches; transforming dull stones into beautiful and highly claimed Gemstones. What happens to the stone? One way to think about heat treatment, which is considered a natural treatment, is as a continuation of the formation process that the gem would have undergone had it remained 11 uncovered in the earth’s surface. During heat treatments, Gemstones are heated to very high temperatures (approximately 1600 Centigrade – close to the heat produced from volcanic activity). The result of applying this sort of heat treatment can take an unattractively colored stone and transform it into something much more beautiful and valuable. In addition to affecting the color, heat treatment can cause impurities to reform themselves and dissolve inclusions within the gemstone. Heat treatment can affect the color and character of different gemstones in different ways. One very cool example is the milky white colored gouda white sapphire which turns into a classic blue sapphire from heat treatment. Gemstones that are often treated with heat includes Yellow Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Ruby, Tanzanite and Zircon. And while heat treatment is not always discernible by a gemstone laboratory since it mimics the gem formation process, Nine Gems always discloses whether or not a gem has been treated. Wishing everyone a great summer! Hope you manage to stay cool while you have fun shopping for some hot gemstones. Gem therapy is an alternative form of healing. Practitioners of this therapy believe that gemstones carry certain vibrations which when placed within a person's aura has the effect of changing it. The theory Gem therapy is an alternative form of healing. Practitioners of this therapy believe that gemstones carry certain vibrations which when placed within a person's aura, has the effect of changing it. It is believed that the human aura consists of nine colours, namely: violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange, re, infra red and ultra violet. Any deficiency or excess of these colours upsets the body's energy balance leading to illness. Gemstones heal by restoring the balance to the original composition of the nine colours. Gemstones transmit a specific wavelength to the body, which converts these rays into a chemical form that the body can utilize to improve its functioning both on a physical and an emotional level. The history 12 Gem therapy is not a new-fangled notion. There is evidence to show that the healing properties of gemstones were recognized as far back as the Greek and Egyptian civilizations and in the Vedic period in India. Archaeologists have found evidence of systematic mining for gemstones in Egypt over 7000 years ago as well as in the Oxus Valley in Afghanistan. The Vedas are acknowledged as the authority on gems, their description, potencies and prescription for effective use. According to the Vedas, imbalances could be set right either by wearing gems against one's skin or using them as an ingredient to make medicines and potions to be taken internally. Even the gems worn by the kings and queens were not purely for decoration. They adorned the crowns of royalty primarily for their occult powers. They were thought to be capable of influencing the powers of nature and of increasing the wealth, power and popularity of the wearer. According to the sages in ancient times, gemstones also had the ability to divert negative planetary influences. The practice It is believed that gemstones react differently with different people. Hence, it is important to go to a qualified vedic astrologer or ayurvedic practitioner before trying to practice this therapy yourself. If gemstones are incorrectly used, there is a danger that they might have a detrimental effect. The simplest way to practice gem therapy is to wear high quality round beads around the neck. Some practitiones make a solution using gemstones and alcohol. A high quality gemstone is placed in a solution of diluted alcohol and stored in the dark for about a week. As a result, the vibratory force of the gem permeates the alcohol, which can be used as a medicine. Another process involves placing the gemstone in a glass jar filled with water in the sunlight. The rays of the sun help the water to acquire the vibratory force of the gemstone and thus the water has medicinal value. It is imperative that the gems used in therapy be of natural origin. Synthetic gems or natural gems that have been heated or irradiated in a laboratory to improve the colour or the clarity of the stone lose their inherent energies and are useless from a therapeutic point of view. Hence, when looking for a gemstone for therapeutic purposes, one needs to approach a qualified 13 gemologist. Some gemstones and their healing properties Amber Helps to lift heavy emotional burdens to allow happiness into one's life. Amethyst Provides spiritual upliftment. Aquamarine Reminds one of an ocean of love and mercy and consequently makes it easier to handle difficult situations in life. Coral Strengthens one's emotional foundation. Diamond Increases personal clarity. Emerald Useful for both physical and emotional healing. Jade Creates a feeling of relaxation and calm and thus reduces tension. Lapis Good for establishing a connection between the heart and the mind. Black onyx Helps to change bad habits. Opal Broadens one's perspective, enabling one to see all the possibilities in a situation. Rose quartz Gives emotional balance and enables us to express our emotions better as well as soothes them. Ruby Opens the heart and helps to overcome fear. Sapphire Provides mental clarity. The Hindu Gem Therapy is a unique therapeutic system based on Vedic astrology and Ayurveda (traditional Hindu medicine). Gemstones have been an integral part of Hindu culture for thousands of years, and in contrast with other cultures their medicinal use in India was far more documented and systematized with strict rules to dictate their proper use. Unlike modern Crystal Therapy which mainly uses raw crystals by temporarily placing them on the patient’s body or using them as part of a massage, the Hindu Gem Therapy uses only very high quality gemstones which can be constantly worn for years by the patient in the form of jewelry made from specific metals to maximize their effect. 14 Hindu Gem Therapy uses nine main gemstones called t he Maharat na: Emerald Diamond Pearl Yellow Sapphire Ruby Red Coral Hessonit e Blue Sapphire 15 Cat ’s-Eye Chrysoberyl Fluorite octahedron with internal cracks These gemstones represent the seven classical planets that are visible to the naked eye together with the solar and lunar eclipses. A talisman containing all of the main gemstones called the Navaratna (nine gems) was used for millennia as a royal and sacred emblem, and today it is the national as well as the royal symbol of the king of Thailand. Together with the nine main gemstones, several alternative gemstones are utilized in case the main ones are not available, which are known as the Uparatna. These include the following:  Sun Uparatna: Red Spinel, Red Garnet, Rubellite Tourmaline*  Moon Uparatna: Moonstone, Mother of Pearl  Mercury Uparatna: Peridot, Elbaite Tourmaline, Tsavorite Garnet*  Venus Uparatna: White Sapphire, White Zircon, White Topaz, White Quartz  Mars Uparatna: Carnelian, Red Jasper, Fire Opal*  Jupiter Uparatna: Yellow Topaz, Citrine  Saturn Uparatna: Blue Spinel, Iolite, Amethyst  Rahu Uparatna: Brown Zircon, Smokey Quartz  Ketu Uparatna: Cats-Eye Quartz, Cats-Eye Aquamarine, Nephrite Jade* *Some of the gemstones mentioned above are relatively new and their use as secondary gemstones is not well documented. Despite the prestige of wearing gems such as diamonds and rubies, Gem Therapy emphasizes quality and not type hence a flawless quartz is considered far superior to a rough diamond full of inclusions. When selecting the most appropriate gemstones for a person, Hindus utilize their form of astrology, called Vedic Astrology or Jyotish, which focuses not on the month of birth but on 16 the sign rising at the moment of his birth. After the astrological analysis is concluded and the appropriate gemstones are chosen, the Hindus recommend a testing period when the gemstone is sewn into a bandage and tied to a person for at least three days. If during this time the person starts feeling ill, catches a disease or has bad dreams the gemstone is deemed unsuitable. If on the other hand the person had sudden good luck or success, or alternatively if no significant event took place during this time the testing period is extended to 7 days and if these pass without incident the gemstone is considered suitable for the person. After the testing period, the gemstone is set in a talisman made from the appropriate metal and that talisman is worn for the first time on a suitable day close to the full moon. The proper day varies for each gemstone, and in certain cases the waiting period is extended to the passing of the moon in specific asterisms deemed auspicious for the event. After the dawning of the talisman, it continues to be worn up to the point when it has to be replaced due to damage or loss, however some suggest that even if the stone is undamaged it should still be replaced every two to five years depending on its type. The great diligence with which the Hindus choose their gemstones stands in stark contrast to the way the subject is handled in most new age and modern crystal therapy books and websites. The reason for that is the numerous mentions in Hindu texts of the destructive powers of the gemstones and their capability to induce significant harm and even cause death, which completely contradicts the modern belief that gemstones cannot harm their users in any way. The Hindu belief in the destructive capabilities of gemstones is even expressed in the connection they sometimes draw between events such as the death of Princess Diana and the 17 fact that she wore a large blue sapphire, which is considered especially destructive, in her wedding ring. Even in their ancient texts one finds mention of the fact that a gemstone with cracks and inclusions is unsuitable for use and would bring only sorrow to the wearer. Personal experience with therapeutic gemstones After years of working with gemstones both in personal use and for treating others, I am able to share a few important observations regarding their effects. The first and probably the most important of these is their significant ability to cause harm to the wearer, which has ironically proven their effectiveness to many a sceptic far more than what would have been achieved with any sort of positive effects. When it comes to their ability to heal (or at least assist in healing) injuries and diseases, I was able to observe on different occasions both a direct effect on the healing process and “coincidences” which assisted recovery such as faster doctor appointments or even faster appearance of transplant donors. In addition, while at first I thought that their role would be an aid such as glasses or a pacemaker, over time it became quite clear that gemstones help to solve the problem and not just treat or mask it. When it comes to their effects beyond the medical realm, here too I was able to witness quite a few surprises. After all, who would have thought that a tiny stone, only a few millimeters in size, is capable of causing quarrels, loss of jobs, accidents and injuries, while another tiny stone could save people from all of these time and again. It would of course be impossible to prove in any way that it was the gemstone that somehow affected the events in question, but the timing (in some cases a few hours or days) certainly supports its involvement. Despite all of the above, I was able to observe several drawbacks regarding gemstones which are worth considering. For example, sometimes the gemstone that is able to solve one problem 18 would at the same time cause another, making it unusable. In addition, the need to wear a ring or a necklace containing the gemstone can sometimes interfere with everyday activity. Another thing to consider is the fact that in certain cases gemstones become inert, for example after flying in pressurized aircraft, and require prolonged soaking in water to recover their effects. These issues restrict their usefulness in certain professions. Another thing to note is that gemstones should never be worn in cemeteries or when in contact with the dead, and such activities would even require burying the stone as it becomes unsuitable for use. Crystal healing is an alternative medical technique in which crystals and other stones are used to cure ailments and protect against disease. Proponents of this technique believe that crystals act as conduits for healing — allowing positive, healing energy to flow into the body as negative, disease-causing energy flows out. But despite the fact that crystal healing has seen an upsurge in popularity in recent years, this alternative treatment is not popular with most medical doctors and scientists, many of whom refer to crystal healing as a pseudoscience. Scientifically speaking, there is no evidence that crystal healing can be used to cure diseases, because diseases have never been found to be the result of a so-called energy flow in the body. Furthermore, no scientific studies have shown that crystals and gems can be differentiated by chemical composition or color to treat a particular ailment. Nevertheless, healing crystals remain popular at health spas and at New Age health clinics, sometimes incorporated into related practices of massage and Reiki. The use of crystals in such environments may help induce relaxation, although this effect is also not backed by scientific evidence. How it's supposed to work Crystal healing proponents believe that crystals and gemstones have properties that facilitate healing. Many sites promoting crystal healing allege that the history of this practice is ancient, dating back at least 6,000 years to the time of the ancient Sumerians of Mesopotamia. Ancient Egyptians are also referenced on such sites as being among the first people to have adorned themselves with crystals — including lapis lazuli, carnelian and turquoise — to ward off illness and negative energy. 19 But the philosophy of modern crystal healing is based on traditional concepts borrowed from Asian cultures, most notably the Chinese concept of life-energy (chi or qi) and the Hindu or Buddhist concept of chakras, which are vortices of this life-energy, said to connect the physical and supernatural elements of the body. In crystal healing, stones are assigned various properties, though healers have different ideas about which stones possess which properties. Amethyst, for example, is believed by some to be beneficial for the intestines; green aventurine helps the heart; yellow topaz provides mental clarity. Colors red through violet are associated with seven chakra points on the body. During a treatment session, a crystal healer may place various stones or crystals on your body aligned with these chakra points, roughly in the regions above the head, on the forehead, on the throat, on the chest, on the stomach, on the gut, and on the genital area. The stones used and their positioning may be chosen for the symptoms reported by the patient. This is all influenced by the healer's knowledge of, and belief in, the chakra philosophy of disease and energy imbalances — a philosophy that is largely dismissed by practitioners of Western medicine. Crystal healing also involves the use of crystals and stones worn on the body or placed under pillows to ward off sickness, shed negative energy or absorb positive energy, according to Crystal Vaults, a company that sells such crystals, which it refers to as "talismans" or "amulets." How it actually works While there are no scientific studies on the efficacy of crystal healing, there is a study that suggests that crystal healing may induce a placebo effect in a patient who receives this type of treatment. Placebo effects are effects that accompany a treatment that are not directly due to the treatment itself acting on the disease of the patient, according to Christopher French, head of the anomalistic psychology research unit at the University of London. In other words, a person may feel better after undergoing crystal healing treatment, but there is no scientific proof that this result has anything to do with the crystals being used during the treatment. In 2001, French and his colleagues at Goldsmiths College at the University of London presented a paper at the British Psychological Society Centenary Annual Conference in Glasgow, in which they outlined their study of the efficacy of crystal healing. For the study, 80 participants were asked to meditate for five minutes while holding either a real quartz crystal or a fake crystal that they believed was real. Before meditating, half of the 20 participants were primed to notice any effects that the crystals might have on them, like tingling in the body or warmth in the hand holding the crystal. After meditating, participants answered questions about whether they felt any effects from the crystal healing session. The researchers found that the effects reported by those who held fake crystals while meditating were no different than the effects reported by those who held real crystals during the study. Many participants in both groups reported feeling a warm sensation in the hand holding the crystal or fake crystal, as well as an increased feeling of overall well being. Those who had been primed to feel these effects reported stronger effects than those who had not been primed. However, the strength of these effects did not correlate with whether the person in question was holding a real crystal or a fake one. Those who believed in the power of crystals (as measured by a questionnaire) were twice as likely as non-believers to report feeling effects from the crystal. "There is no evidence that crystal healing works over and above a placebo effect," French told Live Science. "That is the appropriate standard to judge any form of treatment. But whether or not you judge crystal healing, or any other form of [complementary and alternative medicine], to be totally worthless depends upon your attitude to placebo effects." As French pointed out, there are many forms of treatment that are known to have no therapeutic effect other than a placebo effect. However, while these treatments might make you feel better temporarily, there is no proof that they can actually cure diseases or treat health conditions. If you're suffering from a serious medical issue, you should seek treatment from a licensed physician, not an alternative healer, French said. Is crystal healing safe? Crystal healers become healers by passing a certification course, often offered over the Internet from "natural medicine" universities or clinics, many of which are not accredited by any central organization. Currently, there are no state or federal laws that regulate or standardize the practice of crystal healing or the licensing of crystal healers specifically. In some states, this type of alternative treatment may fall under the category of massage or bodywork therapy. In those states, crystal healers may be required to obtain a license in order to practice their trade. Non-profit organizations such as the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (NCBTMB) also administer voluntary board certification exams for massage therapists and alternative healers. NCTMB endorses schools and businesses that offer 21 certification to alternative healers, but only if they fulfill certain criteria established by the organization. Some medical doctors tolerate crystal healing to a limited degree, seeing it as a therapy that can induce relaxation, which ultimately is therapeutic for stress management. Those seeking a crystal healer, however, should be careful not to forgo legitimate treatment for life-threatening disease. Many parents also use Baltic amber necklaces for teething infants and toddlers, believing that the amber itself will help to take the teething pain away, similarly to the use of other gemstones to cure other ailments. According to Healthy Children, there is no scientific evidence that the amber works to subside teething pain. There are two theories that explain how the amber supposedly works: one is that a pain-relieving substance (succinic acid) is released from the amber by the heat of the baby's skin and is absorbed through the skin into the blood stream, and two, the amber stimulates the thyroid gland to increase drooling and reduce inflammation in the ears, throat, stomach and respiratory system. John Snyder, a pediatrician who wrote an article about amber necklaces on the website ScienceBased Medicine, listed several claims that are made about amber necklaces and how they may help lessen pain. The only claims that Snyder said were the slightest bit plausible were that it is known that Baltic amber does contain succinic acid, that some molecules are absorbed through the skin, and that succinic acid is naturally found in the human body. The amount of succinic acid in the amber, however, exists in minuscule amounts and body heat does not release it from the amber. There is also little to no evidence that that succinic acid produces a therapeutic effect. A 2016 letter to the editor published in the Journal of Pediatrics and Child Health by Alexandra Hudson, Kim Blake and Robyn McLaughlin discusses how the dangers of amber necklaces outweigh the very slim potential of benefit. The primary concerns with the necklaces are strangulation and choking, and several documented cases exist. The authors point out that both the Canadian Pediatric Society and American Academy of Pediatrics recommend against using the amber necklaces and recommend that parents are properly educated about teething and the use of amber healing. 22 Nine navaratna gems in a Nava-graha pendant-yantra.//A gold ring studded with Navaratna The traditional setting and arrangement of these nine gems is shown in the illustration. A ruby (representing the Sun) is always in the center, surrounded (clockwise from the top) by a diamond, a natural pearl, red coral, hessonite, a blue sapphire, cat's eye, a yellow sapphire, and an emerald. This is the same placement as the Nava-graha Yantra. Traditionally, no gem other than a ruby or a red spinel is set in the center of a nine gems arrangement. To do so is believed to go against the flow of nature. Because the Sun is the center of the solar system, its gem is positioned in the heart of a Navaratna Talisman. For an example of the navaratna in a necklace setting, see Thailand's "The Queen Sirikit Navaratna." Purity: In the above sloka the words sujatyam-amalam (sujati=high born, and amala=completely pure or flawless) are significant. According to Asian belief systems, only clean, top-quality gems are considered to be auspicious. In further support of this mostly overlooked dictate, in the Hindu "Garuda Puranam," chapter 68, verse 17, it is stated by narrator Sri Suta Goswami: " Pure, flawless gems have auspicious powers which can protect one from demons, snakes, poisons, diseases, sinful reactions, and other dangers, while flawed stones have the opposite effect." And from the ancient " Agni Purana," chapter 246, slokas 7 and 8: 23 "A gem free from all impurities and radiating its characteristic internal luster should be looked upon as an escort of good luck; a gem which is cracked, fissured, devoid of luster, or appearing rough or sandy, should not be used at all." Yogananda on Gem Therapy: "Just as a house can be fitted with a copper rod to absorb the shock of lightning, so the bodily temple can be benefited by various protective measures. Ages ago our yogis discovered that pure metals emit an astral light which is powerfully counteractive to negative pulls of the planets. Subtle electrical and magnetic radiations are constantly circulating in the universe [...] This problem received attention from our rishis; they found helpful not only a combination of metals, but also of plants and most effective of all faultless jewels of not less than two carats. The preventive uses of astrology have seldom been seriously studied outside of India. One little-known fact is that the proper jewels, metals, or plant preparations are valueless unless the required weight is secured, and unless these remedial agents are worn next to the skin." According to Hindu astrology, life on earth is influenced by the navagrahas, or nine influencers. The placement of the navagrahas in one's horoscope supposedly have an influence throughout an individual's life. Wearing the nine gems is said to provide an astrological balance and benefit to the wearer. Hindu astrology also says that these gems potentially may have both positive or negative influences on human life, and that astrological gems should be worn only after consulting a Vedic astrologer, who is also conversant with gems. Based on an individual's sidereal horoscope, either a single gem or a combination of compatible gems is advised to be worn to harness beneficial planets or counteract harmful planets. The supposed "astrological" or "piezoelectric" benefit of wearing or donating gems has not been scientifically quantified. BIBLIOGRAPHY 1.BEN ROKHLENKO https://healergems.com/possible-gemstones-explanation/ 2.A Short Discourse on Vedic Gemstone Therapy and Gem Elixirs, by Stephen Quong 3. Follow Elizabeth Palermo @techEpalermo. 24