About Gem and Metal Therapy

About Gem and Metal Therapy

Most everyone is familiar with their birthstone – the gem that corresponds to their astrological Sun sign. According to Vedic astrology, however, choosing the most beneficial gem takes into account not only the location of the Sun in the natal chart, but the placement of all the planets as well.

The application of Jyotish and Hast Jyotish in prescribing gems for therapeutic use has its origin in the Vedas, which dates back thousands of years.

Shri Yukteswar, a renowned Vedic astrologer and guru of Paramahansa Yogananda, often suggested various gems as a healing remedy as explained by Paramahansa in his book Autobiography of a Yogi:

“Pearls and other jewels as well as metals and plants, applied directly on the human skin, exercise an electromagnetic influence over the physical cells. The human body contains carbon and various metallic elements that are present also in plants metals, jewels (gems). The discoveries of the rishis in these fields will doubtless receive confirmation someday from physiologists. Man's sensitive body, with its electrical life currents, possesses many mysteries as yet unexplored.” Paramahansa Yogananda, Autobiography of a Yogi, p. 272

A gem prescription is made according to the strengths and weaknesses of the planets in the hands and the chart. Furthermore, a specific gem or gem combination can be suggested to support you during a particular dasa or life period, which is ruled by a specific planet and ranges anywhere from 6 to 20 years in duration.

In order for gemstones to have their best effect, high-quality natural gemstones should be worn touching the skin. As gems act much like transformers, imparting energy to the wearer, it is necessary to determine their quality. Inclusions and other defects – that may go unnoticed through the inexperienced eye – can impede the flow of energy. It is best, then, to purchase gems from a specialist, as standard procedures are used by all gemologists to determine clarity, proper proportions of the cut, comparison of color, etc.

When faced with a choice to purchase a precious gem with a slight defect, it is preferable to substitute it for a flawless semi-precious gem of the same gem family. These affordable substitutes will produce similar, beneficial effects when flawless precious gems are unavailable.

For example, a peridot, in the family of gems related to the planet Mercury, can be substituted for a more expensive emerald. There are other significant considerations, however, for substituting a gem other than cost and availability. For instance, a diamond, ruled by Venus, is a powerful gem, not easily worn by everyone. Consequently, a quartz crystal may be worn instead, to mitigate the powerful, somewhat overwhelming influence of this gem.

Moreover, while we may be attracted by the brilliance and color of a particular gem, it may not be the most beneficial one for our particular needs. For example a beautiful translucent pearl, which is associated with the Moon’s vibration, can be beneficial towards enhancing one’s creativity, however, for another individual, it can accentuate emotional insecurities. For this reason, it is important to examine the development of the mount of Luna in the hand as well as the position of the Moon in the natal chart.

Gems help counteract negativity seen in the chart indicated by difficult planetary configurations. For example, a difficult Mars placement in the chart can indicate that we lack perseverance. Gems to help develop greater endurance will then be suggested. Similarly, we may be experiencing a period (dasa) in our life – whereby the influence of the ruling planet is detrimental to our progress. Once again, gem/s that correspond to the energy of the planet can be suggested to filter and help neutralize the negative effects.

In India, the practice of Graha Shanti, roughly translated as "being able to resonate with the planetary energy", is based on the use of gems and metals. As the synergy between both the metal and the gem can enhance the positive effects on the individual, it is important that they vibrate in harmony together. Consequently, the setting of a ring or pendant, both in design and in regards to gem/metal compatibility, is essential. Specifically, gold, silver and copper, in different combinations, are matched to specific gems that increase the potency of their desired effects. For example, ruby is usually set in gold while green tourmaline is set in silver.

Also, as was mentioned above, it is preferable that the gem be in direct contact with the skin. This allows an unimpeded flow of energy through the setting and to the wearer.

Gems are often prescribed in pairs based on the principle of duality - the complementary nature of opposites - whereby different aspects of ourselves are brought into greater harmony. For example, the gem sapphire, related to the introspective nature of Saturn, can be paired with an emerald, related to Mercury, denoting ease of self-expression. In this way, the intense and demanding transformative process related to Saturn can be lightened by the uplifting and effervescent effect of Mercury.

Depending on the needs of the individual, a navaratna, meaning nine gems, may be suggested. This setting, rather than targeting a specific need of an individual, as would a single gem, is more universal in its preventive effects. Another unique, time-honored gem combination is the panchtattwa. This rarefied, and effective five-gem setting corresponds to the five elements of earth, water, fire, air, and ether.

A comprehensive profile of an individual based on a thorough chart analysis, a study of the morphological details of the hand, and an in-depth knowledge of the inherent qualities of gems are indispensable in determining the appropriate combination of gems and metals.

Herbal preparations and mantras are used in the purification of gems. This process is recommended before wearing the gem so as to bring their vibrations into harmony with your own, personal vibratory signature. This too, helps to increase the potential beneficial effects.

Ghanshyam Singh Birla, founder of the center, is a pioneer in the field of energy medicine. He is the author of Magnet Therapy, and is a leading authority on Vedic palmistry with several books written on the subject in over seven languages. Ghanshyam has also studied gemology with the Gemological Institute of America. Most recently, his collaboration with Colette Hemlin, graduate of the Gemmological Association and Gem Testing Laboratory of Great Britain, has resulted in their upcoming book, The Healing Powers of Gems.