Do Gemstones Really Work? A Historical and Astrological Perspective
An Insight from Astrologer Ashish Somani
🔹 Introduction
Gemstone astrology is immensely popular today. People wear specific gems like ruby for the Sun or blue sapphire for Saturn, hoping to correct imbalances in their birth charts. But a key question must be asked: Did the ancient Rishis like Parāśara or Varāhamihira actually prescribe gemstones as remedies? This blog explores the real origins of gemstone remedies in astrology and presents the view of K.N. Rao, one of the most respected astrologers of modern India.
📅 Ancient Texts: What the Rishis Actually Said
In the most authoritative ancient texts of Vedic astrology—especially the Bṛhat Parāśara Horā Śāstra (BPHS) and Bṛhat Jātaka by Varāhamihira—there is no mention whatsoever of wearing this to pacify or strengthen planets. Instead, the remedies recommended by Sage Parāśara include:
- Daana (charity)
- Mantra Japa (chanting)
- Homa (fire rituals)
- Vrata (fasting)
These are spiritual, dharmic remedies intended to align the individual with cosmic order (ṛta). The Rishis focused on inner purification and karma alignment, not external objects like gems. Even in the Vedas and Upanishads, these are described as symbols of light, purity, or divine wealth—not as astrological tools.
So, to be clear: no Rishi, including Parāśara, has prescribed this as a remedy in astrology.
📊 Medieval Evolution: The Entry of Gemstones into Jyotish
The idea of wearing specific gemstones for specific planets is a medieval development, not Vedic. Between the 10th and 17th centuries CE, various schools of Tantra, Ayurveda, and Purāṇic rituals began merging with Jyotish Shastra. This shift gave rise to more material-based remedies, such as gems, metals, and yantras.
Tantric texts proposed that everything in creation carries vibrational energy (shakti), including stones. Ayurveda contributed the concept of ratna bhasma—gem powder used in medicine. The Purāṇas, particularly the Garuda Purāṇa, spoke about the physical and spiritual qualities of gems but still did not link them to planetary pacification.
📚 Key Medieval Texts:
| Text | Period | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Ratna Parīkṣā (author unknown) | 11th–13th c. | First known text to associate specific gems with specific planets |
| Jyotish Ratna | 13th–15th c. | Rules on how, when, and where to wear gemstones |
| Mani-Mālā | 15th–17th c. | Mystical qualities and chakra associations of gems |
| Garuda Purāṇa | 12th–15th c. | Describes flaws and qualities of gems, but not as Jyotish remedies |
By the late medieval era, the Navaratna system (nine gems for nine planets) became popular among kings and courtiers. These systems were adopted in Hindu-Buddhist cultures across India, Nepal, and Southeast Asia—but they were not a part of Rishi-based astrology.
🔮 Do Gemstones Really Work?
From a Vedic-Tantric viewpoint:
- Gemstones may act as energy amplifiers, resonating with the frequency of the associated planet.
- If natural, flawless, and astrologically appropriate, they can strengthen a benefic planet.
From a scientific angle:
- Gems affect light frequencies and bioelectromagnetic fields.
- Color therapy and crystal resonance studies suggest subtle energetic influence.
However, wearing the wrong gemstone can amplify negative effects—especially if worn for an afflicted or malefic planet.
🏛️ K.N. Rao’s Caution on Gemstones
K.N. Rao, one of India’s most respected astrologers, warned strongly against the careless use of gemstones:
- “Every second astrologer recommends a gemstone. This has become an industry—not Jyotish.”
- “Do not wear gemstones to strengthen afflicted or malefic planets. You may worsen your karma.”
He advocated for Mantra, Daana, and Dharma-based remedies as more spiritually aligned and karmically safer methods. He maintained that karma cannot be canceled by a stone, and that one must align with dharma to improve their destiny.
📍 Final Verdict: Use Gems Wisely—If At All
| Case | Effectiveness |
| Strengthening a weak benefic planet | ✅ Can help if correctly prescribed |
| Wearing gem for malefic/afflicted planet | ❌ Risky and potentially harmful |
| Gem used without mantra or daana | ⚠️ Often ineffective |
Gemstones may help, but they are not magic. They are tools, and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified astrologer who understands dasha, graha bala, karma, and dharma.
Conclusion:
- Rishis like Parāśara and Varāhamihira did not prescribe gemstones.
- Gemstone astrology is a medieval evolution, starting with Ratna Parīkṣā.
- Use mantras, charity, and spiritual practices as the primary remedies.
If you’re considering wearing a gemstone, consult an expert first. For a customized remedy based on your chart, connect with Astrologer Ashish Somani.
