Before You Wear a Gemstone, Ask These Four Questions

A gemstone strengthens a planet. That is precisely why it should not be worn on the strength of a sun-sign chart or a shopkeeper's recommendation — strengthening the wrong planet in your chart is not a neutral act.

1. Which planet is being strengthened, and why?

The prescription should name the planet, its condition in your chart and the specific reason strengthening it is desirable now. If nobody can answer that, the stone has not been diagnosed.

2. Is the planet a functional benefic for your ascendant?

A planet favourable for one ascendant can be adverse for another. This is checked before, not after.

3. What weight, metal, finger and day?

A correct prescription is specific: minimum weight in ratti, the metal, the finger and the day and muhurat for first wearing, along with the energisation procedure.

4. Is a stone even needed?

Often it is not. Many charts respond better to discipline, charity or mantra. A consultant willing to tell you that is worth more than one who prescribes a stone every time.