Ayurveda, Gemstones Crystals: Vedic Gemstone Therapy

By Howard Beckman

Gemstone Therapy

From time immemorial gemstones have been used by all cultures of the world. Their inherent beauty is second to no other material in the mineral kingdom. The word "gem" itself refers to something of an exquisite or superior nature. We refer to something of great quality or rarity, or even to special people at times, as "gems".

Today's science of gemmology gives much information about the physical properties and chemical composition of gemstones, but gives no information of their "healing properties". They are extremely powerful tools to aid in balancing the physical, psychological and spiritual sides of life. This is necessary in order to keep oneself in proper order. The information I will give in this section is mainly from the Vedic viewpoint. This has been tried and tested for thousands of years and found to be accurate. The vedas have the greatest wealth of information on the metaphysical properties, as well as the physical properties, of gems and their correct application to enhance the lives of human beings.

The History of Gem Therapy and Planetary Gemmology

Modern science recognises the potencies of gems in their technological uses, such as the use of crystals in watches, computers, and lasers. However, their subtle uses to cure disease, balance human emotions and infuse other potencies to the wearer are not recognised by western science and medicine. Thorough study of this subject has shown that the Vedic uses of gemstones in astrology and medicine have been proven by the experiences of countless people, both in ancient and modern times. The science of planetary gemmology is used as a most effective healing tool within the eastern, or sidereal, system of astrology. Over a billion people throughout Asia and the world take advantage of this system to counteract imbalances throughout their lives, whether they be physical, mental, or spiritual.

In the histories of the Indian (of India), the Greek, Egyptian, as well as the Jewish cultures, gems were valued for their abilities to heal and also to enhance the lives of the wearers. Our Western system of birthstones traces its origin to the Breastplate of the High Priest, also known as the Breastplate of Aaron. In the Bible, Moses gave specific rules governing the "Breastplate of Judgement" which was set with 12 gems. Each gemstone was engraved with a name of one of the tribes of Israel. Through archaeological research and excavations we find that man has always collected gemstones and had some knowledge of their uses and potencies. There is evidence of systematic mining in Egypt over 7,000 years ago, as well as in the Oxus Valley of Afghanistan.

However, no other culture had such extensive knowledge of the use of gems as did the ancient Indians in their scriptures. The Vedas contain the most complete storehouse of knowledge of gems, their description, potencies and prescriptions for effective usage. The instructions on their uses and prescriptions are found especially in the texts of the "Jyotish" and the "Guruda Purana." They give detailed descriptions of the uses of gemstones as remedial measures to counter imbalances in an astrological horoscope by the wearing of gems on the body, as well as the uses of gems in preparing elixirs and medicines to be taken internally.

Kings and queens wore gems on their crowns originally for the occult powers they imparted, rather than as a show of personal wealth. Gemstones were used as a basis for directing the subtle forces of nature, to increase the wearer's powers and abilities to achieve desired goals. Such desires included wealth, influence and popularity, preventing physical disease and averting disasters.

Gems were said by the ancient rishis and seers to be able to avert negative influences of planets and to increase positive ones. The colours and vibrations of specific gemstones directly correspond to the colours and vibrations of various planets in our solar system. Everything in the universe is influenced by and sensitive to colour. The degree of influence they have on people is dependent upon the particular colours' emanations and absorption rate. The gems create their effect by both the absorption and reflections of the vibratory rays. They are extremely sensitive and contain radioactive crystals which can increase the cosmic rays received by the planets. When worn as rings or pendants they actually create an electromagnetic field around the person, but just as electricity works differently according to the particular equipment it is used to run, these rays work differently in different bodily constitutions.

Energy is the composition of the elements of nature as vibrational rays and wavelengths. When gemstone therapy is utilised the gems pick up and transmit a specific wavelength to the body. The body in turn transforms these rays into chemicals and elemental particles it can use to better function both on the physical and emotional levels. The different planets and their gemstones will be discussed at length in this section. The gems are incredible repositories of their cosmic powers and their force is always positive. However, care must be taken that the correct gemstones are worn. Gems should be recommended by a qualified vedic astrologer, tantric, or ayurvedic practitioner as their effects are powerful and can cause detriment if incorrectly applied.

Persons interested in learning more about Gemstone Therapy should read "Mantras, Yantras & Fabulous Gems" by Howard Beckman, , see http://www.vedicworld.org/books . www.planetaryjewels.com stock a full range of precious gemstones for ayurvedic and astrological prescription. For information about the current stocks of natural gemstones available for purchase, pleaseÐvisit the Balaji Gems website at http://www.planetaryjewels.com .