Archive for 2010

Gemstone Characteristics

October 25th, 2010

Gemstones are characterized by the four defining attributes: color, cut, carat weight and clarity.

Color

A gemstone’s unique coloring is determined by its tone, hue and saturation. Generally speaking, the more intense and evenly distributed a gemstone’s color, the higher the value of the stone.

Tone: The tone of a gemstone refers to the deepness, richness, or darkness of the stone’s hue. A gemstone’s tone can range from “very very light’, or virtually colorless, to ‘very very dark’, or almost completely opaque. A quality stone is transparent enough to maintain light return but dark enough to show a richness of color.
Hue: The hue of a gemstone is defined by the specific shade of color it exhibits. The more unified the shade, the higher the value of the stone. A gemstone that looks entirely blue rather than bluish-green would be considered a higher quality stone. Aside from Opals, gemstones that display two or more colors that compete for the eye’s attention are considered to be of lower value.
 

Saturation: Saturation refers to the intensity or purity of a gemstone’s color. An impure color may appear dirty, muddy or cloudy. Typically stones with a higher level of saturation display brighter, more vivid colors.
 

Cut

The cut of a gemstone, like the cut of a diamond, enhances its overall beauty and value. A good cutter wants to capitalize on valuable carat weight, color, clarity, and symmetry. Because gemstones can vary so greatly in color and raw carat worth, there are no standard measurements or proportions for gemstone cuts. The quality of each cut must be judged according to the quality of each stone.

Carat Weight: Gemstones, specifically from the corundum family, such as rubies and sapphires, are significantly more expensive than other gemstones. For this reason, a cutter may choose to keep an inclusion in favor of producing a stone with a higher carat weight.
 

Clarity: The clarity of a gemstone refers to scratches, fissures and other inclusions which might detract from the overall beauty of the stone. A quality cut will remove as many jarring inclusions as possible and will exhibit a smooth, scratch-free polish.

 

Color: Depending on the color of the stone, the proportions defining a quality cut will change. A stone with a dark color, for example, should be cut with a shallow pavilion to brighten its overall appearance. A light-colored gemstone, on the other hand, may benefit from a deeper cut.

 

Symmetry: The facets of a gemstone should always be symmetrical. An asymmetrical cut not only looks sloppy, but also affects light distribution and reflection across the stone. Well-cut gemstones are designed to evenly distribute light.

Clarity

All gemstones have some traces of minerals, cracks, or fissures, referred to as inclusions. However, many gemstone inclusions do not negatively impact the value of the stone. Because there is such a wide variety of gemstones, there is no universally accepted grading system for gemstone clarity and every stone’s clarity must be measured according to its own variety. Naturally, gemstones with very few to no inclusions are considered to be the most valuable and may price higher than high quality diamonds due to their rarity.

Carat Weight

The weight of a gemstone isn’t necessarily correlated with its size. Gemstones vary considerably in density so that a one carat ruby will be far smaller than a one carat opal. When buying a gemstone, Zoara suggests that you don’t rely on the carat weight to give you a sense of the size of the gem or the size of the mounted gem. When it comes to evaluating gemstones, the weight of a gemstone, or its density, and not its size, will determine the gemstone’s value. A gemstone that is denser, that weights more, will cost more than a gemstone that may appear larger in size, but has a lesser density.

Uses of Gemstones

October 21st, 2010

Tourmaline

Tourmaline keeps the soul young and enhances spiritual possibilities up to a high age. This stone helps one to transform negative thoughts into loving thoughts and actions, promotes self confidence and concentration, against dizziness, falling and tripping, use when you have equilibrum problems and nervousness, comforts when you are sad. Tourmaline heals all forms of infections and poisonings, is soothing and calms, The stone lessens neuralgia, against shingles and throat problems. Has a positive influence on the thyroid. Because of its variety in colours Tourmaline can be used for many things in magic.

Turquoise

Turquoise is a protective stone, it protects humans and animals against outside negative influences. It is also an excellent protector for travellers and in your car, you can keep a piece of Turquoise in your car as protection stone. Turquoise promotes relationships and gives its wearer wealth. It absorbs damaging vibrations and dispels the evil eye. It protects young children and helps deal with negative experiences. It promotes faithfulness in love and protects the virtues, promotes meditation and fulfils wishes. The stone will change colour when its wearer is sick or in danger, brings its wearer good luck. It is a friendship stone. Enhances good taste, gives happiness, makes content, promotes deeds, against hot flashes, protects against negative influences and attracts good things. Strengthens the immune system during viral contaminations, like flu, mono (kissing disease) and injuries. Against arthritis, inflammation of joints (not connected to arthritis), cramps and muscular tension, promotes the energy flow and gets rid of blockages, strengthens the nervous system, and the kidneys. Brings rest when one is irritable or mentally unstable and against insomnia caused by over exhaustion.

Amethyst

Amethyst calms and gives inner peace, works wonders against insomnia, stress related headaches and migraines. Relaxes the muscles of the neck and shoulder blades, against venereal diseases, hysteria, hallucinations, puerperal fever, rage, hatred and anger, fear, pain and homesickness. Amethyst cures impurities of the skin, against dropsy and colour blindness, strengthens kidneys and eyes. Works against all kinds of addictions, alcoholism, pulls the negativity out of its wearer, gives energy, clears the mind, for flexibility and openness, against concussions and related head aches. Against infections, strengthens stomach, liver and gives love of mankind and friendship, strengthens pancreas, thyroid, thymus and metabolism. Use to regain strength after illness, paleness and painful menstruation. Amethyst is an ideal stone to decrease fear, sorrow and homesickness. Also it’s an ideal stone to use for sprains. Amethyst can be used to sharpen the sixth sense and that’s why a lot of people keep an Amethyst with their Tarot set or Runes. An Amethyst worn by a man will attract a good woman. In magick this stone is used against alcoholism, for courage, as a protection against thieves, for health, peace, love and psychism.

Citrine

Makes one happy, against fatigue, strengthens self-confidence, use in case of fear of exams. Helps one cope with mental exertion. Promotes a positive outlook. For glands, diabetes, appendix, colon, liver, kidneys, immune system, gall bladder, heart and blood circulation, muscles, and mood swings, gives one self-esteem and clarity. Promotes positivity and clear thoughts. Against depression, melancholy and stimulates the mind and soul if you can’t detach from grief and anxiety. Citrine gives one an intellectual control of ones emotional life. Also Citrine enhances spiritual powers.

Moonstone

Moonstone connects us to the Divine energies of the moon and changes along with the phases of the moon. Every moon phase is explained differently for those wearing this stone. An old legend tells that when lovers take a Moonstone in their mouth during the full moon, they will be able to see their joint future. Moonstone is a stone that is suited for lovers because it stimulates a tender passion. Moonstone also protects travellers against accidents, on both the land and the water. Moonstone may also be used in divination, the stone is an excellent guide in dreams and it also teaches us to interpret these dreams and also to interpret the Tarot cards. In the past amulets of Moonstone were placed on the branches of fruit trees to promote a healthy and abundant crop. Moonstone really is a stone for this time of hardness and materialism. This stone teaches us that love is important and softens hardened, bitter people. Even though this stone is seen as a stone of feminine energy it is also suited for men, especially to get them in touch with their softer, feminine side. touch with their softer, feminine side. In gemstone therapy Moonstone is frequently used for its therapeutic properties toward infertility, especially if the infertility is caused by stress and a disturbed hormone cycle. Next to that this stone also positively influences problems that are related to menopause, like hot flashes and it also helps with menstrual complaints in general. Moonstone also positively influences the mucous membranes throughout the body and therefore it may be used in the treatment of the irritable bowel syndrome. Moonstone also positively influences the respiratory tract and may be worn to dispel problems like asthma and respiratory problems. Moonstone stimulates the pancreas and therefore can be a good therapy stone in the treatment of diabetes, next to the regular therapy. Next to that Moonstone is suited for children, it helps against growing disturbances and pains and it is a stone that opens the subconscious to new ideas and helps to take in subject-matter that has to be reproduced in a short time frame. For this you will have to take a piece of Moonstone in your mouth while studying and the stone will hold on to the subject-matter for twenty four hours. You will have to bring the stone to the test or exam with you.

Blue Topaz

Blue Topaz positively influences the throat area and therefore can be used as a therapy stone against sore throats, thyroid problems and goiter. This stone also cures angina, tonsillitis and laryngitis. Blue Topaz can also be used in the treatment of varicose veins and haemorrhoids, because it strengthens the veins. Blue Topaz is a stone that inspires the human psyche, and it gives its wearer a harmonious connection to the environment and nature.
Malachite

Malachite strengthens the eye sight, use in case of sprains, oedema, Malachite gets rid of excessive fluids and use when you have pain in your joints. Menstruation problems, like irregularity and pains, strengthens the heart, in case of asthma, arthritis and rheumatism, cholera, colic, wounds and poisoning. Against glaucoma, for glands, against infections, can cure cancer in the early stages, against mycosis, for the throat, and against radiation. Use in case of sickness of the uterus, prostate, against obesity and cellulite. Malachite stimulates business success, protects its wearer on their travels and protects against negativity and danger.

Gemstones and Anatomy

October 21st, 2010

For centuries, crystals and stones have been associated and utilized for different anatomical locations and the organs associated with them.

Appendix- Chrysolite

Arms- Malachite, Jadeite

Bladder- Topaz, Jasper, Amber & Orange Calcite

Bone Marrow- Purple Fluorite

Brain- Green and Dark Blue Tourmaline, Amber, Beryl & Blue Lace Agate

Capillaries- Dendritic Agate

Circulatory- System Amethyst, Chalcedony, Hematite, Bloodstone & Red Jasper

Digestive Tract- Chrysocolla, Green Jasper & Red Jade

Ears- Amber, Obsidian, Orange Calcite, Celestite & Rhodonite

Endocrine System- Amber, Yellow Jasper, Amethyst, Fire Agate & Pink Tourmaline

Eyes- Beryl, Aquamarine, Fire Agate, Cat’s Eye, Sapphire & Celestite

Fallopian Tubes- Chrysoprase

Female Reproductive- Carnelian, Amber, Moonstone, Topaz, Chrysoprase & Unakite

Foot/Feet- Onyx, Smokey Quartz

Gall Bladder- Jasper, carnelian, Topaz, Citrine, Calcite & Tiger’s Eye

Hands- Aquamarine, Moonstone & Moldavite

Heart- Rose Quartz, Rhodonite, Cuprite, Garnet & Dioptase

Immune System- Amethyst, Lapis Lazuli, Malachite, Turquoise & Black Tourmaline

Intestines- Celestite, Green Fluorite, Peridot & Beryl Jaw Aquamarine

Kidneys- Bloodstone, Beryl, Jadeite, Hematite, Citrine, Smokey Quartz, Rose Quartz & Amber

Knees- Jadeite & Azurite

Liver- Bloodstone, Carnelian, Aquamarine, Beryl, Red Jasper, Danburite & Charoite

Lower Back- Carnelian

Lungs- Lapis Lazuli, Kunzite, Amber, Beryl, Pink Tourmaline, Rhodonite, Dioptase & Peridot

Metabolism- Sodalite, Amethyst & Pyrolusite

Muscle Tissue- Magnetite, Danburite & Cuprite

Neck- Quartz & Aquamarine

Nervous System - Green Jade, Amber, Green Tourmaline, Lapis Lazuli & Dendritic Agate

Pancreas- Blue Lace Agate, Chrysocolla & Red Tourmaline

Pineal Gland- Rhodonite

Pituitary Gland- Benitoite

Prostate Gland- Chrysoprase

Shoulders- Selenite

Skeletal System- Iron Pyrite, Purple Fluorite, Amazonite, Azurite, Calcite. Cuprite & Sardonyx

Skin- Azurite, Green Jasper & Brown Jasper

Spine- Garnet, Labradonite, Tourmaline & Beryl

Stomach- Green Fluorite, Beryl & Fire Agate

Teeth- Fluorite, Aquamarine & Rutilated Quartz

Testes- Topaz, Jadeite & carnelian

Throat- Beryl, Lapis Lazuli

Care of Gemstones

October 21st, 2010

Crystals and Stones conduct both positive and negative energy. Before you use a stone it is mandatory to clear all prior energies and restore the stone to its natural balanced clear energy state.

Outdoor method:

Place in Sunlight:

Some stones can be damaged by excessive sunlight. Lay your stones and crystals on a cotton lined tray. Place in the sun for several hours. If you can place the stones close to natural plants the clearing will be much more powerful. Be careful wild birds are attracted to the stones and small stones can be carried off by birds.

Moonlight or Rain:

Same method as sun clearing, however stones can be placed on a inside window ledge at night in the moonlight.

Sage and Rosemary Tea Method:

Take few fresh sage and rosemary leaves and brew a pot of light tea and allow it to cool to room temperature. Place your crystals in a glass bowl and pour the cooled tea over them. Let them sit while you are at work or overnight. This method works better using distilled or spring water.

Smudge Method:

Pass stones through the smoke of a scented incense such as sweetgrass, frankincense, sage or Dragon’s Blood. A incense blend of parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme is terrific and will restore, cleanse and maintain good vibrations in the room also.

Water Method:

Place stones under cold running water for 5 minutes. You can either hold the stones in your hands or place them in a non metal strainer. This is quick and easy but there are drawbacks: some stones loose their coatings when they get wet such as Lapis, Malachite and Sodalight. They often are stronger after this type of cleansing — but they may get damaged faster.

Rain Method:

Stones really love the rain. Same as with sun method leave in the rain and allow to dry naturally in the sun. This is much better than the sink method if the weather is cooperating.

Sea Salt Method:

Use about one cup of sea salt to two cups natural spring water. Place the stones in the sea salt water and let them sit a few hours. If the day is sunny, remove and let them dry in the sunshine for a few hours, or if there are lunar stones, to lay in the moonlight on a windowsill through the night.

Sand and Soil Method:

Bury the stones in moist sand or soil. It is much better to place the stones directly in the earth – just remember to mark the spot where they are buried !! Leave them buried for a full 24 hours. This method is especially useful for very negative energies or after having tried all previous methods and the stones still do not feel balanced. Use no wrappings, sometimes polish is removed doing this method. However, it will get something clean.

Stones that are damaged in Sunlight:

Aventurine: translucent types often loose color.

Amethyst: becomes paler.

Optical Effects in Gemstones

October 19th, 2010

 Lustres

 Lustre (or the American spelling Luster) refers to the amount and quality of light reflecting from a gem’s surface to the eye. It is partially a subjective measurement but can be helped by comparison with a standard set of gems with known lustres. The hardness of a material, its refractive index and the degree to which it has been polished will have a bearing on the lustre. In general the harder a material is the higher the lustre, the softer it is the lower the lustre. The Americans and the British use slightly different nomenclature for lustres.

The categories as below:

Metallic, submetallic, adamantine, subadamantine, vitreous, subvitreous, waxy, greasy, silky, dull.

The first three reflect the presence of refractive indices over the refractometer scale.

An index high on the scale; vitreous, midscale; and subvitreous, low.

Waxy and greasy lusters are usually associated with poorly polished surfaces, while silky refers to stones with many needle like inclusions.

Many gems have a glassy or vitreous lustre.

The lustre types as: “Metallic: silver, Adamantine: diamond,

Subadamantine: demantoid garnet, Resinous adamantine: certain zircons, Vitreous: quartz, Resinous: amber, Silky: fibrous materials such as satin-spar, Pearly: usually seen only on cleavage faces, Waxy: turquoise. 

 1.3-1.4 Poor reflections, inclined to be greasy or oily in appearance

1.5-1./8 Brightly reflective, like glass

1.6-1.9 Resinous in appearance

1.9-2.5 Very brightly reflective, adamantine, sometimes appearing as if the mineral is lightly coated with a metal film.

2.5 + Submetallic, bright luster, definitely metallic in appearance

Sheen

 Sheen is due to the reflection of light from material below the surface of a gem. Moonstone, spectrolite and other feldspars are examples. Sheen in moonstone is also called schiller or adularescence. Pearls too have sheen as light reflects from below the surface of the pearl.

 Interference of Light

2

 When a light ray strikes a surface composed of thin films part is reflected and part refracted into the films. The ray then reflects from film levels below the top surface and reenters the air. As it does so it interferes with; either intensifying or quenching certain wavelengths (colors) in other light rays reflecting from the top of the film. This produces color and light effects like that of oil on water, soap bubbles, Titanium and Niobium coloring, labradorite, tempering colors on steel and so on. In the diagram below a single ray is shown but in reality an infinite number of rays are doing the same thing simultaneously at all points on the surface of the partially reflective top layer or film.

Iridescence

 A general term for color effects produced by interference or by diffraction. Color play in opals, mother of pearl etc. are examples.

 Play of Colour

 A term used to describe the colors seen in opal. This is caused by light diffraction from a regular structure of silica spheres in opals.

Diffraction

 When light passes over many tiny sharp edges or between many repeated points of differently refracting media an interference like phenomenon occurs; light is spread out into specific colors. You can see this on music CDs and sometimes on mesh between you and a light source. This principle is used in the diffraction grating spectroscope. This is what causes the play of color in opals, light being bent and diffracted as it passes innumerable regular stacked layers of minuscule silica gel spheres.

Opalescence

 The milkiness of opals. Sometimes it is used to describe play of color.

Chatoyancy

 When a gem material contains many minute fibrous inclusions oriented in one direction and it is cut en cabachon a streak of light or ‘eye’ can be seen at right angles to the direction of the inclusions. An example used to explain this is the light streak visible on a spool of silk thread or on an old 35 RPM record. Examples include chrysoberyl (cymophane), crocidolite (tigers eye) and quartz. Many gems can exhibit an ‘eye’ including tourmaline, beryl, nephrite, jadeite etc.

Asterism Star stones

These are most commonly sapphire and ruby but may include garnet, spinel, diopside and other gems. It is a special type of chatoyancy as the cause is due to many small fibrous inclusions oriented at set angles to each other. Examples are ruby (60o), garnet (70o). These inclusions in the case of corundum are all parallel to the lateral axes of the crystal and at right angles to the vertical crystal axis. When the stone is cut with the top of the cabachon dome oriented with the main crystal axis passing vertically through it and the silk inclusions parallel to the girdle of the stone asterism results. Each set of silk has a streak of light at right angles to it and a star is seen.

Spectroscope

 Along with the microscope and refractometer this is a major identification tool in gemology. As light passes through a gem the presence of certain chemicals will cause specific wavelengths of light to be absorbed. Instances also occur where wavelengths are intensified or the stone actually emits light (fluorescence wavelengths – rubies, spinel). When light is spread out by a prism or diffraction grating spectroscope into a wide band these absorbed wavelengths show up a lines or areas of darkness in the spectrum. While the actual wavelength numbers can be used in identification usually only a pattern of lines is used to identify the stone. It can be the fastest way of checking out large numbers of stones, even small ones, especially red gems, as spinel, ruby and tourmaline have distinctive spectra. It can be used to identify synthetic verneuil sapphire, blue synthetic spinel, almandine garnet to name a few. Note that British gemmologists have the red on the left and Americans have it on the right when looking at spectra. Here is an example of what the absorbtion spectrum pattern of a gem stone might look like through a spectroscope. We are however dealing with an ideal here because in real life the spectrum lines you see are really faint, fuzzy, hard to see things. . Red is on the right in the diagram below.

1

The Optical Characteristics and Properties of Gemstones

October 19th, 2010

The optical characteristics and properties of gemstones often provide the fastest and best methods of identification. A certain amount of theory is necessary as optical principles determine cutting methods, gemstone attributes and the function of gem testing instruments.

 Light

Light and our perception of it play a crucial role in our appreciation of and identification of gemstones. Visible light however comprises only a small part of what is referred to as the electromagnetic spectrum.

While the wave or undulatory theory of light has been mostly superseded by the quantum (particle) theory the wave theory best serves the purpose of describing light for gemmology. We can consider the electromagnetic spectrum to consist of an infinite number of types of wavelengths, from short to very long. Different wavelengths have different powers of penetration dependent upon their length relative to the medium they pass through. X-rays for example with a wavelength near atomic sizes pass through or between most atoms. The amount passed depends upon the mass of the atom concerned. Dense atoms like lead for instance provide a screen against x-rays. An application of this is a test for diamonds, whether set or unset, where the suspect stones are x-rayed for ten seconds over photographic paper. Carbon atoms are small (low mass) and so diamond is transparent to x-rays and is invisible on the photograph while all diamond simulants show up as positive, opaque shapes.

A rough wavelength scale follows:

optic1

 
Note what a small portion of the spectrum comprises visible light. Light can be thought of as progressing outward in a single path (a ray). The ray forms a wave vibrating in all planes at right angles to the direction of travel, the line of the ray.

 optic2

White light is composed of a mixture of a great many wavelengths each of which is perceived as a different colour. The wavelength of violet light for example is about half that of red light. The wavelengths of white light may be divided into:

Red 700.0 nm to 640.0 nm
Orange 640.0 nm to 595.0 nm
Yellow 595.0 nm to 575.0 nm
Green 575.0 nm to 500.0 nm
Blue 500.0 nm to 440.0 nm
Violet 440.0 nm to 400.0 nm

Transparency

Refers to the ease with which light is transmitted through a substance. Classifications of transparency in cut gemstones include:

  • Transparent stones-An object viewed through the gem shows outlines clearly and distinctly (diamond, topaz, corundum).
  • Semi-transparent- Blurred outlines of object but a great deal of light still passes through the stone, i.e. chalcedony.
  • Translucent- Some light passes through, no object can be seen through stone, i.e. opal, some jades, much cryptocrystalline quartz.
  • Semi-translucent- Light is only transmitted through edges, where they are thin, i.e. turquoise.
  • Opaque-No light passes through, i.e. malachite, pyrites.

Colour and degree of colour will affect transparency as will inclusions, flaws, etc. Quality will also affect it. The characteristics are subjective in nature and overlap exists.

Reflection of Light If a ray of light falls onto a plane mirror the light is reflected away from the surface. The angle of incidence NOI equals the angle of reflection NOR and IO, NO and RO are in the same plane. All angles in optics are measured from the ‘normal’, an imaginary line at right angles to the surface at the point of incidence (where the light ray strikes the surface).

optic3 

Refraction
A ray light entering an optically denser medium is bent (refracted) towards the normal. The greater the bending (refraction) for a given angle of incidence the greater is the refractive power of the stone.

optic4

 
The cause of refraction is that the light waves (300,000 km/second) are slowed down as they enter the optically denser medium. In the 17th century Snell (Dutch scientist) described laws relating angles of incidence and refraction for two media. There is a constant ratio between the sines of these angles for any given two media. The constant ratio obtained is called the refractive index. Air is chosen as the rarer medium and yellow sodium light is the standard for refractive index measurements. Refractive index is a measure of a gem’s refractive power. It is the ratio of the sine of the angle of incidence divided by the sine of the angle of refraction when light passes from air into the denser medium.

optic5 

Gems refractive indices range from under 1.5 to over 2.8.

Total Internal Reflection

A ray passing in the opposite direction, from the denser to the rarer (gem to air) medium is bent (refracted) away from the normal.

optic6

As the angle of incidence is increased the angle of refraction away from the normal increases until a point is reached when the ray I1OR1 exits parallel to the table of the stone. Any further increase in this angle causes the ray to be totally reflected back into the gem. Ray I2OR2 has been reflected back into the gemstone. This is called total internal reflection and the angle I1OM is called the critical angle for the medium in question. The brilliant cut of diamonds uses total internal reflection and the critical angle for diamond and air to ensure that all light entering the stone is totally reflected and passes out the table or crown facets of the stone. The critical angle is also what enables a refractometer to differentiate gemstones of different species.

Dispersion

A white light ray entering an optically denser medium and leaving by a plane inclined to that of entry will have its colours separated, analyzed, spread out. This is because each colour has a different wavelength and so is differently slowed down (refracted) by the medium. Red (longest wavelength) is slowed the least and violet (shortest wavelength) the most.

optic7

This spreading is termed dispersion. In gemstones the effect gives rise to the stone’s ‘fire’. It may be measured with complex equipment and numerical values given. The higher the number the greater the fire where the stone’s colour does not mask the effect, as in demantoid (green) garnet with a greater dispersion (.057) than diamond (.044). With practice and standard stones numerical estimates of dispersion may be made with the Hanneman/Hodgkinson slit technique.

Plane Polarized Light

When a light ray passes through a doubly refractive gemstone it is split into two rays with different amounts of refraction. Each ray is plane polarized, that is instead of the wave vibrating all directions about the line of the ray it vibrates in a single plane only. Each ray is plane polarized at right angles to the other. As each ray is differently refracted so it is differently absorbed by the stone and possesses in coloured gems a different hue or colour.

optic8

The Dichroscope picks up each ray at the same time and allows one to view them side by side. A simple dichroscope is a block of calcite with black paper glued to one end which has a small rectangular hole cut in it. The viewer sees two images because the light ray has been split by the high double refraction of calcite. Each image is of a different ray (each ray is also plane polarized at right angles to the other – this is what allows the calcite to present them separately). If a difference in colour exists it will be visible by comparison. One must always test in several directions. This can be of some use in identifying gemstones by their characteristic dichroic or trichroic colours but is usually used as a method of detecting double refraction. Presence of dichroism proves double refraction. Absence does not mean a material is not doubly refractive – it may be that the dichroism is very weak, or in transparent stones there is none evident. It can be used to find an optic axis. If three colours (trichroic) are seen it means the stone is biaxial. If two only are seen it is uniaxial. Transmitted, not reflected light must be used as reflected light may be partly polarized. Most natural corundum is cut with the table oriented to the optic axis and will show no dichroism through the table. Most synthetic corundum has the table parallel to the optic axis and dichroism is strongest through the table. This is then an indication of synthetic origin.

Astrology of Gemstones

October 12th, 2010

The Vedic seers knew that man is born in this world to experience his Karmas. Good Karmas manifest their effects as happy and auspicious events and bad Karmas as sickness, deficiencies, sorrows, losses accidents etc.

The sages being sympathetic towards humanity envisaged the methods of overcoming sorrows to any extent possible. With this in view they added two auxiliary branches to the Vedas. These are called the Ayurveda and other remedial methods. Ayurveda is the Vedic method of detecting the disease under three major heads called Kapha (Phlegm), Vata (Gout, Rheumatic pains), and Pitta or (bilious troubles). Various herbs and roots, which go to cure these three types of maladies, consist of Ayurveda (Life science).

The seers also knew that Diseases and maladies can be seen in advance by astrology and preventive action can be taken to neutralize or reduce the impact.

For this purpose thy prescribed five methods known as Mantra, Yantra, Tantra, Mani (Gems), Moolika.

All the Gems are known under a single name ‘MANI’.

As we know matter is condensed energy. The seers found the colors of the planets and the gems, which inherit those colors. They also found that wearing the appropriate gem helps to enhance the power of a Good planet and reduce the maleficence of bad ones.

The zodiacal signs have been distributed among the planets

  • Sun rules Leo Gem=Ruby
  • Moon rules Cancer (Pink Color) Gem = Ruby
  • Mars is the ruler of Both Aries and Scorpio (Red color) = Coral
  • Mercury rules Gemini and Virgo (Green) = Emerald
  • Jupiter rules Sagittarius and Pisces (golden yellow) = Yellow Sapphire
  • Venus rules Taurus and Libra (Shining White) = Diamond
  • Saturn rules Capricorn and Aquarius (dark Blue or Black) = Blue sapphire
  • Rahu (Cow dung) & Ketu (Grayish) have no ruler-ship. Hessonite and Cats -Eye

 Besides these major gems there are a number of lesser-valued ones called semi precious stones which are also equally effective. In all there are 84 varieties of gems and precious stones.

When a planet as lord of the ascendant becomes weak, then the concerned gem of the owner of the sign of the ascendant is prescribed as a remedy to strengthen the weak planet.

Similarly when a benefic planet becomes weak due to its placement in the sign of debility or in inimical house or hemmed between the malefic etc the appropriate Gem of that planet is prescribed as remedy.

Some times the malefic such as Saturn, Mars, Sun, Rahu or Ketu become powerful and Become significators of evil houses. In such cases are also the appropriate gem is prescribed as remedy.

Just as Plants have gems they also have metals Viz. Sun = Copper, Moon =lead, Mars = Bronze, Mercury = Brass, Jupiter = Gold, Venus =silver, Saturn = Iron. Rings are generally made of the appropriate metal.

The fingers of the hand:

  • Index = Jupiter
  • Middle = Saturn and Rahu
  • Ring finger = Sun, Moon, Mars
  • Little finger = Venus and Mercury, and Ketu

The rings should be worn in the appropriate finger. When all the nine gems are cast in a single frame it goes under the name of NAVARATNA and can be worn in a golden ring in the ring finger or as a locket around the neck

Procedure for wearing a Gem:

 The days of the week are also named after the planets because a particular planet holds sway on a particular day. A gem is to be worn on the day, which is most powerful for it.

Sunday is Sun’s day.

Monday is Moon’s day

 Tuesday is Mars day

 Wednesday is Mercury day

 Thursday is Jupiter day

 Friday is Venus day 

Saturday is Saturn’s Day

Rahu is akin to Saturn and Ketu is akin to Mars. These two days can be used for Rahu and Ketu. The first hour of the day after sunrise is the ideal time to wear a Gem. When the Gem is ready for wearing it must be kept in raw cow’s milk overnight and Washed in the morning with water alone and put in the altar. The concerned deity to be invoked and incenses shown and some small offering of Milk sweets made. After this formality it can be worn. This gives best effect. Gems are said to lose power in 5 years time. There is no authentic evidence to support this theory. A good gem should last forever as we see it with diamonds like ‘Kohinoor’ or the ‘Hope diamond’.

Color Therapy-Gemstone

October 12th, 2010

mfkfmdkdff

When using color therapy for health, typically there are seven major rays of color that you will be working with which are based on the vibrational aspect of the color. The color rays are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. Each ray corresponds to different types of people, as well as specific bodily concerns, and a gemstone, so each ray will be addressed separately below. One thing you should keep in mind is that each particular color ray also has a complimentary ray. For example, red’s complementary color is blue. This information is useful to keep in mind when you find yourself having an excess of one color ray’s effects. According to the theories of color therapy, the opposite color should be able to help you achieve balance. You can use color therapy in many ways, from mental focus on the specific color candle, through the corresponding gemstones, or even through water set on a windowsill within a glass container the color of the ray you wish to work with. Sunlight charges the water with the rays vibrational energy and when it is then consumed, you may reap the benefits of color therapy. For best effects, you should consult a professional color therapist.

The Red Ray

The red ray works best for people who are dark complected, have dark eyes and hair, and also those who tend to have poor circulatory systems. The gemstone associated with the red ray is ruby, which is thought to be the gemstone of protection, as well as effective at driving away sadness or melancholy moods. However, the red ray is also the greatest energizer of the seven rays, and by that token should be avoided entirely or used with extreme caution with those who have a history of heart conditions. The red ray is thought to affect thebase of the center of the spine – what is known as the root center. When this center is stmulated, adrenalin is released into the blood stream, and it stimulates the sex glands. Studies have shown that simply be focusing on the color red, people can raise their body temperature, so the saying “he’s seeing red” may not be all that far off in the world of color therapy.

The Orange Ray

Orange is associated with enthusiasm and vitality. It works best for people who are autistic, or those who are lethargic, slow or have other mental challenges. Orange is the color for mental debility. The orange ray is also for those people who have a love of life, and everyone needs a little bit of orange because it is a strong mental stimulant. The gemstone for the orange ray is the pearl which is though to be a gemstone which promotes strength and purity by clearing the mind. Orange typically affects the splenic center of the body, and so affects the adrenals as well as the sex organs just as red does. The orange ray is extremely useful in opening up repressed energies into waking consciousness so that you can think about those repressions clearly and creatively seek solutions to them. Orange’s complimentary color is indigo.

The Yellow Ray

Fair complected people who often suffer from pessimism or depression can benefit from the yellow ray. Yellow is also good for general feelings of sluggishness or the blues. The yellow ray is associated with coral which is though to excite the nerves and enhance brilliance. Coral is also effective for turning misfortune into fortunate circumstances. The yellow ray affects the solar plexus which is typically thought of in color therapy as the brain of the nervous system. Emotions can affect the solar plexus when we are stressed out and can cause excessive eating, even if there is no hunger present. The complimentary color of the yellow ray is violet.

The Green Ray

The green ray is useful to those people who suffer from anxiety or difficulty with the lymphatic system. It is also very useful for those who suffer from nervousness related to both mental and emotional depression
. Green’s gemstone is the emerald which brings energy and friendship. Emerald is also though to help with diseases of the heart, and again the phrase “green with envy” in color therapy may be right on the mark, speaking of an excess of the green ray which needs balance. The green ray affects both the thymus gland and the heart and is thought to be extremely soothing and relazing. This ray has a lot to do with how we feel about our own selves, and although it has no complimentary color in the seven ray spectrum, shades of magenta are thought to be complimentary to the green ray.

The Blue Ray

If you suffer from over-stimulation, insomnia or being excessively tired, the blue ray is for you. Blue affects the throat center and the thyroid gland and there is something to the notion of healing blue waters
. Blue is the color ray through which we express ourselves, just as when we speak through the throat the words carry power. Blue is a strong power color for self-confidence and is associated with the sapphire gemstone. Sapphire is useful for expelling personal fears and bringing a state of inner tranquility, calm and peace. Red is the blue rays complimentary color.

The Indigo Ray

Indigo is primarily associated with fair complected people who suffer from extreme lethargy and fatigue. It is a midnight blue ray which affects the brow center, or what is commonly known as the third eye. The indigo ray can open the third eye so that fears can be dispelled and we can see into all dimensions of the self. The indigo ray is also associated with clairvoyance. It’s power is evidenced in it’s gemstone, the diamond. The diamond is one of the hardest gems on earth, and stands for purity even as it acts as a mirror reflecting back to the wearer exactly what they are. The indigo ray allows us to see the true self and is associated with the pituitary gland, which is the master gland of the body in color therapy. The indigo ray is one which seeks truth and to unravel mysteries of the unknown. It’s complimentary color is orange.

The Violet Ray

The last ray in the seven spectrum system is the violet ray. It holds the highest vibration of any of the color rays, andhas a high frequency of energy. Many people working with color therapy find that because of this it is extremely difficult to work with. As such, its not suprising that the primary aspect of the violet ray is useful to those people who suffer from overstimulation. The violet ray is though to permeate every system of the body, and purify and energy every molecule in it’s wake. Studies have shown that use of the violet ray can actually cause people to become ill if they do not use their creative energies while bathed in violet light. At the least, they will become very frustrated. However, by tuning in to the vibration of the violet ray it is theorized that you are able to achieve creative heights you never have before. The violet ray is linked with the crown center in the body and affects all the chakra centers as well as the pineal and endocrine glands in the human body. Yellow is the complimentary color of the violet ray.

Gemstone Therapy

October 11th, 2010

With the advancement in the field of medical science, scientists are coming up with modern methods of treatment. However, many people still believe in ancient therapies, which though dormant over years, still retain their effectiveness. One such ancient method of treating ailments is gemstone therapy. You would be surprised to know that gemstone therapy dates back to the 13th century, when gemstone elixirs were made by mixing water and powdered gemstones, and prescribed to cure a number of ailments. The treatment was meant for the nobles and the rich people, because it made use of precious stones.
 
There are certain gemstones in this world, which have been found to cure a number of physical and mental ailments, such as stress, internal toxins and negativity. Today, people are resorting to the ancient method of gemstone therapy, to find cure for many diseases. This is because, it is believed that the therapy helps the body and mind to relax and removes all the toxins as well. If a particular gemstone is used properly, it would provide you a powerful upliftment, both in terms of physical and mental health. Go through the following lines to know how gemstone therapy works.
 
How Does Gemstone Therapy Work


Typically, gemstone therapy radiates a pure frequency of energy. If the duration of the therapy and the mass of the gemstone used in it are appropriate, the treatment will create a field of energy that would move the patient towards a more balanced, vital and healthy state of mind. The gemstones used in the therapy have their own specific uses. The therapeutic properties of gemstones help in fueling the body’s natural ‘engines’ of healing.
 
The treatment sessions of gemstone therapy are quite similar to acupuncture, the main difference being the use of gems in the former and needles in the latter. Generally, patients are seated or asked to lie down on a massage table, to perform the therapy. Gemstone spheres, specially designed tools, are used for the therapy. Gemstone necklaces are also used for the therapy, wherein the necklaces are placed at strategic locations, on the body of the patient.
 
Another way to perform gemstone therapy is to align specific gemstones within strategic locations of the body. Obsidian stone is placed at the base of the spine. Carnelian gemstone is positioned just below the navel. Citrine gemstone is aligned at the area just below the breastbone. Peridot is placed at the center of the chest. Aquamarine finds its position at the base of the throat, while Lapis lazuli is placed just above the eyebrows. At the crown of the head, Amethyst gemstone rests.
 
Uses Of Different Gemstones


It is believed that various blood disorders, such as leukemia and menstrual problems can be treated by using rubies and garnets. The green colored jade and peridots are used to provide relief from high blood pressure, headaches and stress. Diamonds and moonstones are used to increase fertility, improve sperm counts as well as increase the production of mother’s milk. It is believed that obsidian and hematite is cures insomnia and depression. Amber is said to be beneficial for providing relief from arthritis pain.

Colour of the Rainbow-The Chakras

October 11th, 2010

chakras

“The word chakra is derived from the Sanskrit word meaning wheel. If we were able to see the chakras (as many psychics, in fact, do) we would observe a wheel of energy continuously revolving or rotating. Clairvoyants perceive chakras as colorful wheels or flowers with a hub in the center. The chakras begin at the base of the spine and finish at the top of the head. Though fixed in the central spinal column they are located on both the front and back of the body, and work through it.

Each chakra vibrates or rotates at a different speed. The root or first chakra rotates at the slowest speed, the crown or seventh chakra at the highest speed. Each chakra is stimulated by its own and complimentary color, and a range of gemstones for specific uses. The chakra colors are of the rainbow; red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.

The size and brightness of the wheels vary with individual development, physical condition, energy levels, disease, or stress.

If the chakras are not balanced, or if the energies are blocked, the basic life force will be slowed down. The individual may feel listless, tired, out of sorts, or depressed. Not only will physical bodily functions be affected so diseases may manifest, but the thought processes and the mind may also be affected. A negative attitude, fear, doubt, etc. may preoccupy the individual.

A constant balance between the chakras promotes health and a sense of well being. If the chakras are opened to much, a person could literally short circuit themselves with too much universal energy going through the body. If the chakras are closed, this does not allow for the universal energy to flow through them properly which may also lead to dis-ease.

Most of us react to unpleasant experiences by blocking our feeling and stopping a great deal of our natural energy flow. This affects the maturation and development of the chakras. Whenever a person blocks whatever experience he is having, he in turn blocks his chakras, which eventually become disfigured. When the chakras are functioning normally, each will be open, spinning clockwise to metabolize the particular energies needed from the universal energy field.

As already mentioned any imbalances that exist within any chakra may have profound effects upon either our physical or emotional bodies. We are able to use our quartz crystals and gemstones to re-balance all our chakric centers and once the chakra has been properly balanced then our body will gradually return to normal.

The reason why crystals and gemstones are wonderful and powerful healing tools are because of what science calls its piezoelectric effect. (You can see this effect in the modern quartz watches). Crystals and gemstones respond to the electricity that is coursing through our body, and if the energy is sluggish, the constant electrical vibrations of the stones will help to harmonize, balance, and stimulate these energies.

First Chakra – Root

chakrabase


Studying the individual chakras begins with the root chakra, called Muladhara in Sanskrit. The root chakra is located at the base of the spine at the tailbone in back, and the pubic bone in front. This center holds the basic needs for survival, security and safety. The root chakra is powerfully related to our contact with the Earth Mother, providing us with the ability to be grounded into the earth plane. This is also the center of manifestation. When you are trying to make things happen in the material world, business or material possessions, the energy to succeed will come from the first chakra. If this chakra is blocked an individual may feel fearful, anxious, insecure and frustrated. Problems like obesity, anorexia nervosa, and knee troubles can occur. Root body parts include the hips, legs, lower back and sexual organs. The colors used for this chakra are red, brown and black. The gemstones are Garnet, Smoky Quartz, Obsidian, and Black Tourmaline.

A man’s sexual organs are located primarily in his first chakra, so male sexual energy is usually experienced primarily as physical. A women’s sexual organs are located primarily in her second chakra, so female sexual energy is usually experienced primarily as emotional. Both chakras are associated with sexual energy.

Second Chakra – Belly

chakra2

The next chakra or second chakra is often referred to as the belly or (sacral). It is located two inches below the navel and is rooted into the spine. This center holds the basic needs for sexuality, creativity, intuition, and self-worth. This chakra is also about friendliness, creativity, and emotions. It governs peoples sense of self-worth, their confidence in their own creativity, and their ability to relate to others in an open and friendly way. It¹s influenced by how emotions were expressed or repressed in the family during childhood. Proper balance in this chakra means the ability to flow with emotions freely and to feel and reach out to others sexually or not. If this chakra is blocked a person may feel emotionally explosive, manipulative, obsessed with thoughts of sex or may lack energy. Physical problems may include, kidney weakness, stiff lower back, constipation, and muscle spasms. Belly body parts include sexual organs (women), kidneys, bladder, and large intestine. The main color used with this chakra is orange. The gemstones are Carnelian Agate, Orange Calcite and Tigers Eye.

Third Chakra – Solar Plexus

chakra3solar
The third chakra is referred to as the Solar Plexus. It is located two inches below the breastbone in the center behind the stomach. The third chakra is the center of personal power, the place of ego , of passions, impulses, anger and strength. It is also the center for astral travel and astral influences, receptivity of spirit guides and for psychic development. When the Third Chakra is out of balance you may lack confidence, be confused, worry about what others think, feel that others are controlling your life, and may be depressed. Physical problems may include digestive difficulties, liver problems, diabetes, nervous exhaustion, and food allergies. When balanced you may feel cheerful, outgoing, have self-respect, expressive, enjoy taking on new challenges, and have a strong sense of personal power.

The body parts for this chakra include the stomach, liver, gall bladder, pancreas, and small intestine. The main color for this chakra is yellow. The gemstones are Citrine, Topaz, and Yellow Calcite.

Fourth Chakra – Heart

chakra4

The fourth chakra is referred to as the heart chakra. It is located behind the breast bone in front and on the spine between the shoulder blades in back. This is the center for love, compassion and spirituality. This center directs one¹s ability to love themselves and others, to give and to receive love. This is also the chakra connecting body and mind with spirit. Almost everyone today has a hard, hurt, or broken heart, and it is no accident that heart disease is the number one killer in America today. Deep heart hurts can result in aura obstructions called heart scars. When these scars are released, they raise a lot of old pain, but free the heart for healing and new growth. When this chakra is out of balance you may feel sorry for yourself, paranoid, indecisive, afraid of letting go, afraid of getting hurt, or unworthy of love. Physical illnesses include heart attack, high blood pressure, insomnia, and difficult in breathing. When this chakra is balanced you may feel compassionate, friendly, empathetic, desire to nurture others and see the good in everyone. Body parts for the fourth chakra include heart, lungs, circulatory system, shoulders, and upper back. The main colors used are pink and green. The gemstones are Rose Quartz, Kunzite, and Watermelon tourmaline.

Fifth Chakra – Throat

chakra5


The fifth chakra is referred to as the Throat. It is located in the V of the collarbone at the lower neck and is the center of communication, sound, and expression of creativity via thought , speech, and writing. The possibility for change, transformation and healing are located here. The throat is where anger is stored and finally let go of. When this chakra is out of balance you may want to hold back, feel timid, be quiet, feel weak, or can¹t express your thoughts. Physical illnesses or ailments include, hyperthyroid, skin irritations, ear infections, sore throat, inflammations, and back pain. When this chakra is balanced you may feel balanced, centered, musically or artistically inspired, and may be a good speaker. Body parts for the fifth chakra are throat, neck, teeth, ears, and thyroid gland. The main color used is light blue. The gemstones are Aquamarine and Azurite.

Sixth Chakra – Third Eye

chakra6


The sixth chakra is referred to as the Third Eye. It is located above the physical eyes on the center of the forehead. This is the center for psychic ability, higher intuition, the energies of spirit and light. It also assists in the purification of negative tendencies and in the elimination of selfish attitudes. Through the power of the sixth chakra, you can receive guidance, channel, and tune into your Higher Self. When this chakra is not balanced you may feel non-assertive, afraid of success, or go the opposite way and be egotistical. Physical symptoms may include headaches, blurred vision, blindness, and eyestrain. When this chakra is balanced and open you are your own master with no fear of death, are not attached to material things, may experience telepathy, astral travel, and past lives. Sixth chakra body parts include the eyes, face, brain, lymphatic and endocrine system. The main colors are purple and dark blue. The gemstones are Amethyst, Sodalite, and Lapis Lazuli.

Seventh Chakra – Crown

chakra7


The seventh chakra is referred to as the Crown. It is located just behind the top of the skull. It is the center of spirituality, enlightenment, dynamic thought and energy. It allows for the inward flow of wisdom, and brings the gift of cosmic consciousness. This is also the center of connectedness with the Goddess (God), the place where life animates the physical body. The silver cord that connects the aura bodies extends from the crown. The soul comes into the body through the crown at birth and leaves from the crown at death. When this chakra is unbalanced there may be a constant sense of frustration, no spark of joy, and destructive feelings. Illnesses may include migraine headaches and depression. Balanced energy in this chakra may include the ability to open up to the Divine and total access to the unconscious and subconscious. The main colors for the crown are white and purple. The gemstones are Clear Quartz Crystal, Oregon Opal, and Amethyst.

1st Root Chakra – Garnet, Bloodstone, Hematite
2nd Sacral Chakra – Carnelian, Peach Moonstone
3rd Solar Plexus Chakra – Citrine, Tiger’s Eye
4th Heart Chakra – Jade, Aventurine, Malachite, Rose Quartz
5th Throat Chakra – Aquamarine, Angelite
6th Third Eye Chakra - Labradorite, Lapiz Lazuli
7th Crown Chakra – Amethyst, Clear Quartz

wp