Healing properties
Each gem in the mala was given certain
attributes of healing properties, according
to ancient lore, and the practice is still
in vogue today.
The ruby protects against poisonous substances
and banishes any evil spirits that hover
around. It also gives energy to the wearer
and changes color if the wearer is in bad
health.
The emerald is an antidote for all stomach
complaints, stings and bites; it is soothing
to eyes when mixed with saffron, and a protection
against poisonous insects or reptiles. It
was used in ancient times by mariners to
prevent storms. Emeralds are said to pale
if the wearer is faced with deception. As
it is the stone of the Goddess of Love,
it helps lovers in their problems.
The coral is extremely popular as it is
a stone that is said to cure diseases, help
the memory and act as a powerful protection
against the evil. That is perhaps why it
is often used in rosaries and made into
chains for little children.
Pearls give strength to the heart and are
often used in Ayurvedic medicine. In India,
pearls have always been a favorite ornament
in royal courts.
Blue has always been the color of enlightenment
and in Buddhism, the wearing of sapphire
was said to increase devotion. In the West,
bishops and cardinals also wore sapphires
in ancient times. In spite of being held
in sacred esteem, sapphires can also bring
bad luck if worn by a person who does not
have it as a birthstone.
The garnet is found in many colors though
the best known is deep red, almost resembling
a ruby. Garnets are often used to imitate
precious stones, but have not been recorded
as having any special properties of protection.
On the other hand, the topaz is used for
occult practices. It is used in the Middle
East, for averting the evil, and is said
to bring wealth and long life to the wearer.
The topaz can be golden yellow in color
and sometimes colorless.
The cat's eye is usually brownish yellow.
There is often a light line, which shines
through, giving the idea of an eye from
which it derives its name.
Many of these jewels are worn set in rings,
mounted so that they touch the skin. The
stone and its weight are decided according
to the individual's astrological chart.
The nine jewels of the necklace are a combination
of the different gems and perhaps were originally
threaded together to ensure general well
being. There is no doubt that the variety
of color looks beautiful and it would be
interesting if more research were done in
the meaningfulness of the Navaratna, the
nine jewels.
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