Gemstone Symbolism*

The primary use for gems throughout history has been healing and spiritual rituals. Although gems were rare and exhibited great beauty, they were most valued for the power they imparted to their wearers.

Gemstones are believed to be storehouses of empowerment that are transmitted through contact with one's body. They release their power beneficially or detrimentally, depending on how they are used. Kings and queens had gemstones set in their crowns in order to obtain their potencies, and to connect themselves with cosmic energies that would guide their rule. Priests of different religions used gems in rings and breastplates for similar purposes.

Gemstones' inherent powers are utilized in timepieces, lasers, and computers, but the more subtle potencies-such as their ability to promote physical healing and to help balance human emotions-elude modern science.

Here is an overview on the power of gems taken from, "All You Wanted to Know About Gems", by Vijaya Kumar, an expert on gemstones and their healing properties:

1) All stones or gems have magnetic powers in varying degrees, and many of them are beneficial to us for their therapeutic cures.

2) They emit vibrations and frequencies which have strong potential influence on our whole being.

3) They create strong energy fields which enable us to be charged with their energies.

4) The gems are used for healing, transforming, balancing, and attuning the body, mind, and soul.

5) They are a manifestation of vibrancy, light and color, life, textures, transparency and clarity.

6) They activate our abilities, soothe and comfort, heal and balance through the purity of their rays.

7) The patterns in the stones reveal to us the changes that keep taking place, indicating that life is change-that the process of evolution is a cosmic law.

8) Each gem, tuned to a particular ray, has a special role to play.

9) The gems can be cleaned by leaving them under running water for six to eight hours. Or, bury them in some earth overnight, and rinse them off. Or, keep the stone in the flame of a candle until the candle melts. Or still, place the stone amongst a heap of quartz for several days, whereby its energy is revived from the contact of the quartz.

10) The gem that is cleaned should be placed in direct sunlight, for the sun is a great source of energy and purification.

11) The more precious stones that you wear, the more strongly will you be charged with cosmic forces, radiating out into your surroundings.

12) Wear your stones. Do not store them in a safe or jewelry box, for you will be depriving your body of their tremendous power.

13) Precious stones have a way of healing emotions that have been inharmonious.

14) The stones selected for use should always be in contact with one's body to absorb their healing properties.

* The gem properties listed herein have been assimilated from various sources, reflect popular belief, and are offered for informational purpose only. No claims or promises are expressed or given by providing this information. Information provided herein is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition, and is not meant to replace any medical treatment.