although some authors consider secondary gems. In all cases in the Vedic system, gems
should be as close to flawless as possible and color is an extremely important factor. The
primary stone correlations in Vedic astrology come from antiquity, and authorities are
in general agreement about both the primary and secondary stones. In the Western sys-
tem, confusion again arises, in part from subjectivity (e.g., what is “red” to one person
may be “blackish red” or “purple-red” to another); in part because while sign and gem
correlations are similar, they do not necessarily tally 100%; and because Western
astrologers feel that even inclusions and flaws have meaning, and, therefore no two
gemstones are precisely alike. Western astrologers therefore subscribe to the philosophy
that just as one does not find a person who is, for instance, purely Cancer energy, one
likewise does not find too many gemstones that partake “purely” of one planet. For
example, while one may be content to call a certain stone an agate, agates can be a
variety of colors and may be banded, layered, or a single color. Moreover, agates are a
form of chalcedony, which is part of the quartz family. Furthermore, agate nodules, such
as geodes, may contain opal, quartz crystal, or calcite, among other things.
Vedic astrologers do not work with signs per se. Their approach is more purist
than that of Western astrology. The Western astrologer will make use of sign correla-
tions in order to “blend” planet-sign combinations and will differentiate between, for
instance, Venus in Sagittarius and Venus in Pisces, in addition to taking house posi-
tions and aspects into account. Both Vedic and Western astrologers who are trained in
working with gems can, through the premise that everything is energy, suggest certain
stones to enhance, balance, or redirect certain energies symbolized by natal planets or
transits. However, contrary to some systems of magic, astrologers do not believe that
one can use a gem to create a potential that is not inherently present in the natal
chart. Nor can a gemstone be used for protection from the consequences of one’s
actions. They can, however, be used to increase awareness of potential consequences,
thus possibly acting as a discouragement from taking inappropriate action.
Where Western astrologers will work with any planet of the client’s choosing
according to the client’s natal chart, progressions, and transits, the Vendic astrologer
works according to certain strict criteria to come up with one specific stone, which may
change from time to time according to changes in dasas(planetary periods) and transits.
For example, the Vedic astrologer will first look at the ascendant. If the ruler is in an aus-
picious sign, then the gem of choice would most likely be that of the ruler of the ascen-
dant. Next, the Moon’s sign and the ruler of that sign are considered, along with the ruler
of the naksatra(lunar mansion). Planets in rulership and exaltation are also considered, as
their gemstones may also be used to theiradvantage according to the Vedic system.
Where Vedic astrologers caution that wearing an inauspicious stone can cause
misfortune, Western astrologers are more inclined to say, “If you like it, wear it, as it’s
saying something about you at the moment.” This is not to say they disregard the inher-
ent symbolism, but rather that they place great stock on free will and on the awareness
level of the client. So where Western astrologers will select the class of gem appropriate
to the clients’ concerns, they will encourage clients to select the gem themselves, the
theory being that the clients will choose a stone that has color correlations or inclusions
or even flaws that have personal meaning. This runs counter to Vedic astrology in which
the astrologer “prescribes” the gem, the color, and even the specific weight and will
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Gemstones and Astrology