Healing powers of gems

Fabian H. Chandra, Contributor, Jakarta

Gemstone collectors are often interested in precious stones as they are believed to possess magical, medical properties. Gemstone lore only makes them all the more intriguing.

Many believe gemstones have healing powers, ward off evil forces, protect the wearer against danger, bring fortunes, and help Yogis or meditators open their chakras.

Gems have been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Medicine men from China to Spain commonly prescribe gem medicines. Ayurvedic medicine prescribes the ingestion of certain gemstones to heal certain diseases.

These are the properties believed to be associated with birthstones:

Garnets are believed can stop bleeding, cure inflammations and solve conflicts. The stone-bearer will be guarded from danger. Christians believe Garnet symbolizes God's sacrifice, while for Muslims it illuminates the fourth heaven.

Amethysts are able to cure headaches, toothaches and gout. It also protects the owner from poison and plague, carries soldiers to victory and helps hunters capture wild beasts. Scottish highlanders call quartz crystals "stones of power".

Aquamarines can help the owner conquer all wickedness. It can also heal eye troubles, respiratory problems and hiccups by being soaked in water. Middle-aged people believe the stone can magically convey insight and foresight.

Bloodstones (blood jasper) are believed to be able to smooth discord, soothe the wrath of kings and remove tumors. It is also able to foretell the future.

Diamonds symbolize, among other things, love, faith, power, security, victory and wealth. The belief is that a diamond can make the bearer invisible and can even raise the dead. It can also cure leprosy, insanity, bladder infections and the plague.

Emeralds are considered to be an antidote for poison and is recommended to ward off epilepsy in children, improve appetite, bring good health, stop demonic influences, sharpen wits, bring riches and power.

Pearls are the gems used most consistently as medicinal and love potions. Asians believe pearls cure fevers, indigestion, bleeding, eye ailments and poisoning, while Chinese Taoists swallow them to gain immortality.

Since pearls are composed of calcium carbonate, they act as antacid if consumed, though an expensive antacid at that.

Hindu mythology says Moonstones, formed of congealed moonbeams, can help one see the future if it is held in the mouth under a full moon.

Alexandrite is a relatively new gem on the market. It was discovered in 1830 in the Ural mountains. Its magic properties should be considered similar to greenstones, such as emeralds, peridots, rubies and garnets.

Rubies ensure peace, protect against thieves, banish evil thoughts, control amorous desires and reconcile disputes.

Peridot, if set in gold, is believed to protect against night terror. If it is strung on the hair of a jackass and tied to the left arm it will fend off evil spirits.

Sapphires are credited with many medical properties especially as an antidote to poison. It can clear the mind and skin, not to mention cure fevers, colds, cataracts, ulcers and make peace between enemies. It helps soldiers avoid being captured, protects from envy and attracts heavenly beings.

Opal possesses all magic powers. It can clear sight, cure eye diseases, make the wearer invisible, protect against contagious diseases and ease sadness. Good news for blonds: Opal is believed to guard the color and life of blond hair.

Tourmaline attracts ash, which is why the Dutch call it aschentreckers (ash pullers). The effect is called pyro electricity. People in ancient times use Tourmaline like other similar-colored gemstones, such as peridot or emerald, if green, and ruby or garnet, if red.

Topaz was used by the Romans to detect poison, calm anger and break spells while Hindus believe if topaz is worn above the heart it will prevent thirst, assure a long life, beauty and intelligence.

Citrine is a variety of quartz. Most citrine on the market is obtained from heating amethyst. The properties of citrine are similar to amethyst.

Ancient people wore turquoise to prevent injuries incurred from a fall. Tibetans still consider turquoise a stone of good fortune, health and protection against contagion and evil. American Indians placed it under the floor of new houses or ceremonial structures for good luck and protection.

Zircon in the Middle Ages was thought to induce sleep, promote wealth, honor and wisdom, drive away the plague and evil spirits.

Where is Jade? It seems jade is not popular in the West. Why isn't it on the list? Jade is a very popular gem for the Chinese and Central Americans. In ancient times many people were buried with jade objects.

Folklore claims that people who consume jade over a long period of time never suffer heat, cold, hunger or thirst. Some Chinese people believe rubbing a piece of jade while making important decisions or starting new ventures brings good luck.

Interesting? Sure! But, please remember, this is not a guide for you to become a psychic gem consultant and I certainly do not recommend that you eat your gems!