A gemstone is the naturally occurring crystalline form of a mineral, which is desirable for its beauty, valuable in its rarity and durable enough to be enjoyed for generations. Their rarity, hardness, and durability have made gemstones doubly valuable. The natural beauty, strength, and resilience of gemstones have inspired beliefs in their supernatural origins and magical powers, and gemstones that have survived the centuries have gathered a wealth of history and romance around them.
Some minerals are highly prized because of their exceptional radiance and color. The main physical properties of gemstones are color, luster, how light passes through, and hardness. The gem form of corundum is a ruby, but non-gemstone corundum is used as an abrasive (emery) in sandpaper
Gemstones are classified through several ways. They may be grouped according to chemical composition — Diamond is most desirable and considered the king of all gemstones. A particular gem is made of different quality and quantity of chemical elements and so the different gems are of different color, size and hardness. According to the ancient books the gems and semi gems are eighty four in total, but there are some semi gems also classified. Some of the semi-gems not available now and some are rare, some are not used in the ornaments and not valuable in view of astrology also, but we are giving the details of all.
Only nine gems are named Nav-Ratna nine gems. These are- Ruby, Pearl, Coral, Emerald, Topaz, diamond, Blue Sapphire, Zircon and cast Eye. In these nine gems five are called- Maharatna means the great gems- Ruby, Pearl, Coral, Emerald, Topaz, diamond, Blue Sapphire, Zircon and cast Eye. and are called only gems.
Type of Gems
In Hindu Mythology there are hundred types of gems worn by gods but of them the following 84 are important to human beings. Amongst them, nine–Ruby, Pearl, Coral, Emerald, Yellow or White Sapphire (Pukhraj), Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Gomedha and Cat’s Eye-occupy foremost positions.
Five of them – Ruby, Pearl, Diamond, Emerald and Blue Sapphire – are termed as most superior gems and classed as semi – precious stones.
Diamond
Diamond is the ultimate gemstone, having few weaknesses and many strengths. It is well known that Diamond is the hardest substance found in nature, but few people realize that Diamond is four times harder than the next hardest natural mineral, corundum (sapphire and ruby). But even as hard as it is, it is not impervious. It has a broad color range, high refraction, high dispersion or fire, very low reactivity to chemicals, rarity, and of course, extreme hardness and durability. Diamond is a polymorph of the element carbon.
Emerald
Emerald is a precious gem that promotes creativity and perception. It also acts as a natural tranquilizer when you are worried or your mind is troubled. Emeralds symbolize serenity, success in love, wealth, happiness and peace of mind. Improves the memory, helps insomnia, strengthens the immune system, helps with eye sight, restores youth, aids neurological diseases, heals ear problems, eases child birth.
Yellow Sapphire
Sapphire is the Gem of Destiny. It will bring out the best within you and help make your dreams come true. Sapphires has always been associated with luck in romance. It is said to bring peace and happiness. Relieves mental depression and stimulates motivation and goal orientation. It represent faith and hope. This stone will help you with the heart and stomach and also with stimulating the pituitary glands and psychic centers. Strengthens the eyes, helps take down fever, and can help with nose bleedings. Good to wear for mental health
Light Blue Sapphire
Sapphire is the Gem of Destiny. It will bring out the best within you and help make your dreams come true. Sapphires has always been associated with luck in romance. It is said to bring peace and happiness. Relieves mental depression and stimulates motivation and goal orientation. It represent faith and hope. This stone will help you with the heart and stomach and also with stimulating the pituitary glands and psychic centers. Strengthens the eyes, helps take down fever, and can help with nose bleedings. Good to wear for mental health
Ruby
Considered one of the most precious and perfect gemstones, Ruby symbolizes the sun, freedom and power. It is a sacred gem to the Buddhists, and are called “tears of Buddha”. Increases energy levels and it will stimulate love if worn close to the heart. It protects sensitive natures, health and wealth, controls passions. Stimulates blood circulation, gives calm sleep and takes away nightmares. Will help you if you are suffering from sadness. It’s also said to be able to ward off evil spirits, protect against poisons and act as an antidote to a snakebite.
Coral
Coral was long thought to be a strong talisman against bleeding, evil spirits, and hurricanes.Coral is used to build an emotional foundation. Coral is said to protect children. In many countries, coral is given as a gift to children. Coral is said to cure madness and give wisdom.
Pearl
Pearl is said to help one see himself and help improve self-worth. Giving a loved one a gift of natural pearls is one of the nicest gifts one can give. It allows the wearer to see the love of the person who gave them the pearls.As an emblem of modesty, chastity and purity, the Pearl symbolizes love, success, and happiness. They often symbolize a happy marriage and in many countries are used as a wedding gift.
Hessonite or Zircon
In the middle ages, Zircon was said to aid sleep, bring prosperity, and promote honor and wisdom for its owner. It can be used as an amulet for travelers . It would bring the wearer financial success, and protect him or her from being struck by lightning. Many believed in zircon’s power to prevent the plague.
Cats Eye
The cat’s eye most of all is seen as a particularly effective protective stone and talisman. On account l form as a high-quality cat’s eye it is up among the gemstones of the luxury class.
