DIndia is known for its rich heritage, culture and traditions and it is reflected in the form of its art and religious practices. The Hindu culture expresses its skills and experience in art through various mediums. The beauty of its paintings, the best of clothes, the handicrafts and of course, the finest of jewellery. A variety of precious gemstones have been used since ancient times and used to make exquisite pieces that nobody was able to resist. These are the navratna gemstones that were used in ancient times and are still used to make beautiful pieces. and also worn as birthstones till now. These navratnas hold astronomical powers which give strength and confidence to a person and attract positivity in their life. But before we dig straight into the navratnas , let us first know more about the gemstones in general and then dive into the list of navratna stones!

What is a Gemstone?

A Gemstone is a chunk of mineral or crystal when reduced or polished, is used to make jewellery and ornaments. Precise rocks and every now and then natural substances which are not classified as minerals are also used to make jewellery. Gemstones are the product of nature or Mother Earth. They are formed due to the forces of Earth and Some of them are formed deep inside the earth.

 Types of Precious Gemstones- List of Navratna Stones

Nine gemstones are considered and classified as the “precious gemstones”. They are highly valuable and are said to be linked with the eight planets and the sun. Navratnas are said to be connected with astrology and hold high astrological beliefs. They are linked with early Ayurveda and have high healing and spiritual properties which calm one’s mind, body and soul. The list of Navratna stones is mentioned below:

• BLUE SAPPHIRE

The Blue Sapphire is also known by the Indian name “Neelam”. Neelam represents the planet Saturn. Saturn symbolises discipline, restrictions, karmic lessons and parental figures. The Blue Sapphire or “Neelam” brings positive energy, patience and calmness into one’s life and develops trust in relationships. The ingenious rocks have corundum rocks. The Neelam is formed due to the titanium present in these corundum rocks. At the finish, these are shiny, hard and attractive stones or Blue Saphhire.

• EMERALD

Emerald is also known by the Indian name “Panna”. “Panna” represents the planet Mercury. Mercury is the planet that represents the qualities of intelligence and logic. The Panna has a complicated formation. When the mineral beryl has crucial elements like iron and chromium the emerald is formed as the end product. The emerald or “panna” is said to increase one ability to think logically and perform arithmetic expressions.

• HESSONITE GARNET

Hessonite Garnet famously known as “Gomedh” represents the celestial planet the “rahu”.  Rahu is often linked to materialism, obsession and challenges. Gomedh has the astrological power that reduces stress, boosts energy levels and helps to increase focus. It helps a person to avoid negative forces and health issues. The hessonite garnet is found in metamorphic rocks which are formed  due to high pressure and temperature.

• CHRYSOBERYL CATS EYE

Famously known as “lehsunia” the Chrysoberyl Cats Eye has a shiny appearance in green or greenish-yellow colour. The “lehsunia” is said to attract wealth and goo-fortune. It is highly preferable to the zodiac sign – Aquarius. They have a strong connection with a stone and feel a refreshing energy and thoughts. Like “gomedh” the “lehsunia” is said to represent the ketu which is another celestial planet like rahu and is very powerful. The “lehsunia”is said to reduce the negative effects and energy in one’s life.

• PEARL

Pearl famously known as “moti” in India is a white circular, hard and shiny gemstone. The pearl due to its faded white yet astonishing colour represents the moon. The moon represents one’s internal thoughts, emotions and feelings. wearing a pearl enhances one’s mood, and emotions and helps to calm a strained mind. The marine life has oysters that make the pearl as an act of self-defence from external elements.

• DIAMOND

The diamond is also popularly known as the “heera”. The gemstone is shiny and very attractive. Diamond or heera represents the planet Venus. The diamond is often considered a symbol of luxury, bringing prosperity and increasing one’s creative and imaginative skills. The diamond comprises carbon atoms compressed together under very high temperature and pressure.

• RED CORAL

“Moonga” is the Indian name given to the precious red coral. As the colour suggests, the red coral represents the planet, Mars. Red corals are said to increase assertiveness and build leadership qualities in a person. The red corals are formed undersea and around the aquatic fauna environment. The red colour and the healing properties of the red coral make it perfect for jewellery.

• RUBY

The most astonishing Ruby is also known as “Manikya”. The colour of ruby is red, representing the Sun, which represents ego and anger. The ruby is said to increase one’s confidence, control anger and provide energy. It is called “the stone for courage and power.”. The ruby is made through high pressure and temperature below the earth.

• YELLOW SAPPHIRE

Popularly known as the “pukhraj” represents the planet, Jupiter. The Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system. It is the planet of wisdom and learning. The Yellow Sapphire brings good fortune in health and wealth in one’s life. It is also said to increase one’s charm. Like others, the yellow sapphire or pukhraj has been formed deep inside the earth’s crust for millions of years.

Conclusion – The list of Navratna Stones

The precious gemstones or the navratnas are very beautiful and create an elegant look. The gemstones have multiple uses and they create an amazing aura around them. Navratnas have been used since ancient times and have great significance in Hindu Society. They have healing powers as each navratna represents the planets in our solar system and the sun. Many of us have these navratnas as our birthstones or stones to be worn according to our birth month. The navratnas not only bring good luck but also connect to our souls, bring inner peace and calm our minds.