Gemology is the science of use of gems and stones for medical and astrological purpose. The Bhasma (Powder extract) is extensively used in Ayurveda for preparing medicines without any negative side effects. For astrological purpose, the gem is imbedded in a ring or pendant in such a manner that the bottom is open allowing the gemstone to touch the body (diamond being the exception). Varahamihira (author of the classical text Brihat Samhita) suggests that a gemhaving a good luster, pure and clear color and without flaws ensures good luck and protection. Flawed gem-stones, on the other hand, can bring disaster.
There are two theories on the use of gemstones for astrological purpose. The first is based on the principle of enhancing a particular ray or color effect in which thegemstone acts. like an amplifier. This has the sanction of the Rig-Veda where we are advised to use the seven gems to catch the (visible spectrum) rays of the sun This is the foundation of color therapy. The second theory which has that thegemstone acts like a cosmic filter preventing the ray or particular vibration from affecting the user. Diseases are caused in the body due to deficiencies and the use of certain gemstones to “enhance” or supplement the deficiency results in the improvement of health, mood and life-force. The gemstones can be used for the entire life (called life/ fortune stones) or for a temporary period for alleviating certain deficiencies during periods of adverse.
Finger for Wearing Gems
The index finger is called Tarjani and is considered very inauspicious. In mantra recitation the beads should never touch this finger, even while turning the rosary (when we finish one circle of 108 beads). It rules the “Ahamkara” and is the finger of” fall” or expression of anger. The Gyana Mudra(Knowledge posture for worshipping Guru and Ista Devata.)” has all finger except this index finger stretched out with the index finger (of anger) being in touch with and controlled by the Akash tatwa of the Thumb. Normally for people who are spiritual& worship their Guru, gemstones should not be used in this finger. Some astrologers pre-scribe Ruby I Yellow Sapphire for Power & Wealth respectively for use in the index finger. However, these gemstones have been found to give better results of stable power and gradual stable growth in finance in the ring finger. In our parampara we never recommend gemstones on index fingure.
The right hand is ruled Jupiter and the left hand by Venus indicating increase (right hand) or decrease (lift hand) of life force. Thus, if gemstones have to be prescribed to decrease the evil effects of a malefic planet, its gemstone should be used in the left hand. Such use should be temporary covering the dasa-bhukti of the planet.
Metals for Rings & Pendants
The three principal colors for the bodies of deities in spirituality are yellow (Devi Shakti- The Divine Mother who gives us food and protect us), White (Shiva- who cleanses our sins) and Sky blue (Vishnu- Sky is the direction of heaven & emancipation). The three metals normally used for astrological purpose are Gold (Yellow), Sliver (Platinum etc- White) and steal (iron, lead etc-blue). Sometimes Copper is also used for fire (Sun &Mars) in combination with Gold. However for astrological purpose the selection of metal should normally be made between Gold and Sliver. Gold is normally used with gemstones of male planetswhile sliver is used with gemstones of female planets. Gold is also prescribed for Dharma& Artha trikona. while sliver is prescribed for Kaama&Moksh trikona.