http://www.astrologycom.com/gemstones.

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Rob Tillett has been an astrologer for more than three decades. In previous incarnations a poet, musician, magician, healer, dramatist & composer, he is the editor and publisher of Astrology on the Web and has written many articles on this website. Rob lives in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, on the east coast of Australia

Gemstones of the Zodiac

View Zodiacal Table of Gemstones
The idea of a birthstone connected with the month of your birth is based in traditional astrology. Mystics and shamans believe that each stone has its own unique character and abilities too. Some stones are healers; others are aids to concentration; some are warriors; some are good for business. Rob Tillett explains that you need to get to know and understand your friend from the mineral kingdom. Each of the signs of the zodiac rules a particular gemstone, a fact which has been widely used in jewelry from time immemorial. Conversely, each gem conducts the energies of the particular sign or planet with which it is sympathetic. Wearing the stone of your sign will focus the energies of the sign through the gem, enabling their expression in your daily life. The energy of the sign is channelled through the planet placed there (usually the Sun, Moon, or planetary ruler) and this energy is expressed and focused through the corresponding gem. Yet no stone is wholly composed of the energies of one single sign, or planet (no stone is pure Aries, nor pure Mars, for example). Each natural material, each crystalline structure holds a blend of correspondences. Bear in mind that the planets may not readily express the energies of the signs, if poorly placed or aspected (something you can only find through your horoscope and with the help of an experienced astrologer). Wearing an inappropriate stone can bring great difficulties into our lives. The acceleration of karma brings the potential for increased consciousness, but at the risk of considerable hardship.
Unique Properties

Every gemstone has its own unique properties: colour, crystalline structure, hardness and so on. Each stone has its own unique character and abilities too. Some stones are healers; others are aids to concentration; some are warriors; some are good for business. There is an elemental consciousness in gemstones, a being if you will, that reflects the way nature can help us work towards greater awareness and growth in consciousness. You need to get to know and understand your friend from the mineral kingdom. Match the

stone wisely with the radiance of your horoscope; only then can you experience prosperity, happiness, growth and other benefits. The idea of a birthstone connected with the month of your birth is based in their astrological correspondence. However, thanks to Pope Greg, our calendar has been revised and the months no longer correspond exactly with the signs. Hence some confusion has arisen. The following table shows some widely-accepted modern, traditional and mystical rulerships for each sign, but in truth each sign rules many stones and there is some disagreement among authorities as to which stone rules what! In fact, thanks to our 21C energy solutions technology, you can receive the beneficial gemstone energies in a more constant and reliable (and cheaper) transmission via our Energy Egg system, so if you are serious, check that out too. If you select your Health Sign from the table at the bottom of this page, you can get reliable info on gems, jewels and other correspondences, such as metals, herbs, cell salts and so on. in Indian Vedic Astrology, or Jyotish, gems are assigned to planets, rather than signs. See The Hidden Magic of Gems and The Healing Power of Gems for a detailed examination of this method.
NOTE:

Zodiacal Table of Gemstones

Sign Aries
Mar 21 Apr April 20

Month

Modern

Traditiona Mystical l Diamond Opal

Diamond

Taurus
Apr 21 May May 20

Emerald

Emerald

Sapphire

Gemini
May 21 Jun June 20

Alexandrite

Agate

Amethyst

Cancer
Jun 21 Jul 21

July

Ruby

Ruby, Pearl Moonstone

Leo
Jul 22 Aug 21

August

Peridot, Jade

Sardonyx

Diamond

Virgo
Aug 22 Sep September Sapphire 21

Zircon

Agate

Libra
Sep 22 Oct October 22

Opal

Sapphire

Jasper

Scorpio
Oct 23 Nov 21

November Topaz

Citrine

Pearl

Sagittariu s
Nov 22 Dec 20

December Turquoise

Lapis Lazuli Onyx

Capricorn
Dec 21 Jan January 19

Garnet

Garnet

Emerald

Aquarius
Jan 20 Feb February 18

Amethyst

Amethyst

Bloodstone

Pisces
Feb 19 Mar March 20

Aquamarine

Bloodstone Jade

Dates for Signs may vary somewhat from year to year

This is the end of the article.

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The Gregorian Calendar

Early Reform Projects
The length of the Julian year exceeds the true length of the tropical year by about 11 minutes. Therefore the vernal equinox slowly moved backwards within the calendar year. This fact was noticed in the early Medieval, and first reform proposals were made in the 13th century already. John Holiwood, or Sacrobosco, proposed to leave out a leap year every 288 years. In a paper for pope Urban VI (pope 1261-1264), Giovanni Campano favoured the astronomical determination of equinoxes and full moons. The problem was also considered within Orthodox churches. The Byzantine Nikiforos Grigorius told emperor Andronikos II (r 1282-1328) about the shifting equinox and called for a reform of the calendar. Others deemed a reform unnecessary since the shift of the equinox and with it of Easter bore the advantage of shifting Easter away from Passah. In 1373, the scholar Isaak Argyros stated that a reform was not necessary since Judgement day would come in 1491, the Byzantine year 7000 beginning on 1 September that year. In March 1437 the council of Basle considered a proposal of Nikolaus von Kues (Cusanus) to omit the last seven days of May 1439 and thus bring back the vernal equinox to 21 March. Pope Sixtus IV (pope 14711484) began preparations for a calendar reform and invited the astronomer and mathematician Johannes Mller (Regiomontanus, after his home city of Knigsberg in Franconia) to come to Rome. Regiomontanus died shortly after his arrival in 1476. The calendar question was discussed on both the Lateran council (1512-1517) and the council of Trent (1545-1563), but without a result. The Polish astronomer Mikoaj Kopernik (Nicolaus Copernicus) was invited to the council of Trent. Copernicus refused and stated that the true length of the tropical year was not known exactly enough. Eventually a reform was decreed by pope Gregory XIII (pope 1572-1585).

Gregorian Reform of the Calendar

In a bull called "Inter gravissimas" pope Gregory XIII published the reform details. 4 October 1582 was to be followed by 15 October 1582 without interrupting the sequence of the days of the week. The leap year rule was modified so that a centennial year remained a common year unless divisible by 400. Thus, the years 1700, 1800, 1900 and 2100 were made common years, whereas 1600 and 2000 remained leap years as in the Julian calendar. With these new rules, 400 Gregorian years have 146,097 days, with an average length of the year of 146,097/400 = 365.2425 days = 365 d 5 h 49 min 12 s. This is only four seconds short of the length of the tropical year taken from astronomical tables published by Erasmus Reinhold in Knigsberg (in Prussia) in 1552 and used as the true year length in the reform. The remaining difference to the true length of a tropical year wil amount to one day in more than 3,000 years. The new calendar was not to be applied for dates before the reform, and the rules for determining the date of Easter were modified and expanded, see The Calculation of Easter.

Introduction of the Gregorian Calendar

Only Spain, Portugal, and parts of Italy began to use the new calendar on 15 October 1582, the other Catholic European countries introducing it only until 1584. The Protestants refused to take over the new style and hung on to the Julian calendar until as late as 1700, when the "Improved Calendar" was adopted. The only difference between the "Improved" and the Gregorian calendar was the determination of Easter but finally, in 1775, the Protestants threw over board their "astronomical" Easter calculation and, since 1776, celebrated Easter together with the Catholic church. A detailed list of the adoption of the new calendar shows when and where the Gregorian or the "Improved" calendar was introduced. In Sweden the switch from the old to the new calender was performed under weird circumstances. First, the year 1700 was declared a common year instead of a leap year, thus putting the calendar in Sweden one day ahead of the Julian calendar and leaving a difference between the Gregorian and the Swedish calendar of ten days. The re-adoption of the Julian calendar was done by adding a 30th day to February in 1712. The Swedish waited another 41 years before introducing the Gregorian calender in 1753. Most of the eastern European countries used the Julian calendar until the beginning 20th century, Russia having territories in which the Gregorian calendar had been adopted before they fell to Russia (Finland became a Russian province in 1809, Poland in 1815). Russia adopted the Christian era as late as 1700, until then counting the years from the "creation of the world" which was assumed to have taken place in 5509 BCE, and beginning the year on 1 September. The Christian era was switched to by declaring that 31 December 7208 should be followed by 1 January 1700. In Turkey the Islamic calendar was in use until 1926.

Adoption of the Gregorian or Improved or New Julian Calendar

The following table shows the dates of the introduction of the new calendar for several territories. The days given are the last day of the Julian calendar and the first day of the new calendar.
Italy, Portugal, Spain, Cath. parts of 4 / 15 Oct 1582 Poland France, Lotharingia 9 / 20 Dec 1582 Holland, Brabant, Flanders 21 Dec 1582 / 1 Jan 1583 dc. Liege (Lttich) 10 / 21 Feb 1583 dc. Augsburg 13 / 24 Feb 1583 dc. Treves (Trier) 4 / 15 Oct 1583 Groningen (city) 28 Feb. / 11 Mar 1583 Bavaria, dcs. Freising, Eichsttt, 5 / 16 Oct 1583 Regensburg, Salzburg, Brixen Austrian Upper Alsace, Breisgau 13 / 24 Oct 1583

dc. Basel dch. Jlich-Berg adc. Cologne, Cologne city dc. Wrzburg adc. Mayence (Mainz) dc. Straburg, mg. Baden dc. Mnster, dch. Cleve Styria Austria, Bohemia Luzern, Uri, Schwyz, Zug, Freiburg, Solothurn Silesia, Lusatia Hungary dch. Westphalia dc. Paderborn Unterwalden Hungary Transsylvania dch. Prussia Pfalz-Neuburg dch. Kurlando dc. Osnabrck dc. Hildesheim Wallis prp. Minden Straburg city Protestant Germany, Denmark, Norway Gelderland, Zutphen Iceland Utrecht, Overijssel Friesland, Groningen, Zrich, Bern, Basel, Geneva, Thurgau, Schaffhausen Glarus, Appenzell, St. Gallen city Pisa, Florence Great Britain Sweden (with Finland) Graubnden

20 2/ 3/ 4/ 11 16 17 14 6/

/ 31 Oct 1583 13 Nov 1583 14 Nov 1583 15 Nov 1583 / 22 Nov 1583 / 27 Nov 1583 / 28 Nov 1583 / 25 Dec 1583 17 Jan 1584

11 / 22 Jan 1584 12 / 23 Jan 1584 22 Jan / 2 Feb 1584 1 / 12 Jul 1584 16 / 27 Jun 1585 in June 1587 10 / 21 Oct 1587 14 / 25 Dec 1590 22 Aug / 2 Sep 1610 13 / 24 Dec 1615 1617 1624 15 / 26 Mar 1631 28 Feb / 11 Mar 1655 1 / 12 Feb 1668 5 / 16 Feb 1682 18 Feb / 1 Mar 1700 30 Jun / 12 Jul 1700 16 Nov / 28 Nov 1700 30 Nov / 12 Dec 1700 31 Dec 1700 / 12 Jan 1701 1724 20 Dec 1750 / 1 Jan 1751 2 / 14 Sep 1752 17 Feb / 1 Mar 1753 location-dependent from 1760 until 1812 1913 31 Mar / 14 Apr 1916 31 Jan / 14 Feb 1918 14 / 28 Jan 1919 15 Feb / 1 Mar 1923 10 / 24 Mar 1924 30 Sep / 14 Oct 1924 15 Feb / 1 Mar 1917 1 Jan 1926

Albania Bulgaria Russia Yugoslavia Greece Greek Orthodox Church Romania Ottoman Empire (tax year) Turkey with exceptions re-adoption of the Julian calendar: 19/10 Nov 1594, Gregorian calendar finally adopted in 1700/01 (see list) introduced commonly introduction by law

re-adoption of the Julian calendar after falling to Russia in 1795

abbreviations: dc.-diocese, adc.-arch diocese, prp.-principality (Frstentum), dch.-duchy, mg.-margraviate

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Uma Shankar Shukla graduated (B.Com) from Delhi University. He started teaching Astrology in the School of Astrology. Uma won a gold medal in 1997 in Astrology, having accurately predicted many events. He is skilled in providing health tips from Yoga and Meditation. He is now working with many newspapers and magazines in India, providing articles on Astrology, feng-shui, Numerology, Ancient Science, and Meditation etc. Uma enjoys writing, reading and listening to music. He has been married since 1998 and is a vital contributor to our sister site, TruthStar.com.

The Hidden Magic of Gems

the subtle power of stones
We, as human beings, receive vital rays subtle cosmic radiation from planets that influence our attitudes, behaviour, and environment. This planetary radiation has a definite impact on our ever-changing psychological dispositions. Stones and gems, coming into direct contact with the skin, exercise an electromagnetic influence over our cells. This article by our own Vedic astrologer, Uma Shankar Shukla, explores the ways in which our lives can be affected by the subtle power of stones. Utter the word astrogems, and be ready to be labelled as "that helpless lamb who believes in that misleading thing called astrology" by the cynic who would also deride astrology as "fated pronouncement of stars". But surge a wee bit beyond the mist of pre-conceived notions, shed that cloak of so-called "scientific temper", and what have you? Reasons not to blithely dismiss what were first endorsed in this holy nation: astrogems known as jyotish gems in ancient India.
Common Sense About Gems

Have you noticed that, when our friends laugh (irrespective of whether or not we have understood the joke they are laughing at) we tend to laugh with them? However, we may not be inclined to join the laughter of a stranger sitting next to our table in a restaurant. Ever wondered why it is so? The infectious laughter occurs because of our resonant empathy (common resonance frequency) with our friends. In simpler terms, our friends are on the same wavelength as us.
Power of Prayer

Similarly, when we pray, we send out appreciation, or a request for some quality to be improved, or a situation to learn from and, at times, we are amazed at how wonderfully the universal intelligence responds. However, look at it in perspective, and things will fall in place. What are we doing when we pray? We are actually resonating with the abundance of divine love and goodwill that is readily available to everyone, and our prayers act as channels through which the love and goodwill flow to our near ones and us. Did you know that Prince Charles speaks to plants, and that plants respond by bending and other ways? It is

all a matter of flow of energy from the endearing one to the plants. Those who practice positive affirmations like chanting of mantras will testify the wonderful results of such exercises on the body, mind, and spirit. Now, take a step further back, and let's move on from smaller things to the huge celestial bodies. Isn't it true that the Moon's major phases have such strong effects that we are consciously able to experience them? Sunspots, although of minor astrological significance, have also been shown to significantly affect us. Thus, the basis of all our problems in life lies in our receptivity (resonance). As our receptivity can either be negative or positive, reactive or proactive, we must strive to become magnets that attract only the positive aspects. We must increase the positive aspect of our receptivity.
Electromagnetic Resonance and Vital Rays:

Likewise, we can benefit from the invisible influences if we received the correct blend of radiation that is helpful to our particular electromagnetic 'signature' (corresponding to our karmic weaknesses and strengths). The real significance of karma is not in what happens to us, but in how we react to it. And the greatest challenge of life is to react to events in a positive way. This is where gems come into action. When we wear the right kind of gems, they produce helpful electromagnetic rays. We, as human beings, receive vital rays subtle cosmic radiation from planets that influence our attitudes, behaviour, and environment. This planetary radiation has a definite impact on our ever-changing psychological dispositions. Stones and gems, coming into direct contact with the skin, exercise an electromagnetic influence over our cells.

The Hidden Magic of Gems [part 2]

the science and philosophy of gems
The human body contains carbon and various metallic elements also present in plants, metals and jewels. People are very sensitive to E-M radiation. If your astrological chart shows that your receptivity to beneficial planetary radiation is weak or out of balance, it can be rectified and strengthened by the natural electromagnetic radiation emanating from the appropriate gems. Just as we need vitamins and minerals to meet our physical requirements, we can also utilise different forms of invisible energy to stimulate and aid our mental, spiritual, and physical dispositions. Gemstones have traditionally been used as a potent source of these invisible, therapeutic energies.
The Sci-Phi (Science & Philosophy) Of Gems

No detailed scientific explanations have been offered yet to show how precious stones are able to rearrange and re-orient our negative karmic patterns into positive patterns that can heal and improve our lives. A full scientific understanding of the healing potential of gems may well require an unusually wide scope of investigation, ranging from the macrocosm of astrophysics to the microcosm of atomic structure. Gems, as intelligently grown crystal forms, share by common design unique, patterned symmetries in their atomic lattices that contain billions of atoms in geometric alignment. The precise structure adopted by atoms when they link to form a crystal depends upon which kinds of atoms are present at the time, which ones end up in the crystal structure and the conditions (temperature, pressure etc) which control the way they link together.
Ayurvedic Remedy

Gems are considered, by those who study Ayurveda the traditional medicine of India to have a particularly potent and stable resonance of energy (consciousness), due to an exceptionally free flow of energy from their geometrically aligned atoms. This resonant energy has either an obvious or subtle effect

on the mind (consciousness), depending on the individual wearing the gems. They will vibrate at a new energy level only if they are exposed to energy of their resonant frequency. In the human body there may be a low or weakened degree of receptivity to a frequency of needed cosmic radiation due to a variety of karmic reasons. A gem resonating at a frequency which is identical to that 'weak link' in the individual's bio-electronic pattern could well be the catalyst for a definite improvement in physical, psychological, and spiritual health. We can infer that gems resonate to the needed frequencies radiated by the planets and, hence, strengthen or retune our weakened receptivity to these frequencies. Holistic practitioners believe that disease is generally a symptom of lack, or excess, of a particular form of energy. The correct balance of energy is the remedy that seems to procure the greatest health.
Where To Start

A detailed planetary analysis is the first step. In India, the proper method of determining the right gem is to do a lifetime chart for the person, based on his or her birth information. For finding out your present planetary position, we need your time of birth, date of birth, and the place of birth. With this information, we will find out the present planetary positions and your birth star and advise you the right kind of gem to be worn for this period. The proper stone is then prescribed. It is necessary that the gem must remain in direct contact with the body. So, when getting the ring made from a jeweller, make sure that the design is such that the stone touches the skin when you wear the ring. Also, its surface must be open to receive the rays. The rays should be able to pass through the gemstone, into your body, and no metal should block their path. The stone must be worn in a ring or a bracelet, but never as a pendant as pendants swing and lessen the power of the stone.
Choosing A Genuine Gem

When choosing a gemstone, consult a good gemmologist and buy gems from a recognised gemstone mart. Only experience will help you distinguish the fake from the real. It is said that you can check the gemstone by carefully feeling and touching the gem: most of the gems are hard, the duplicate ones are waxy if they are squeezed between the fingers. However, the correct scientific method is to rely on the specific gravity test and the refractive index test. Artificial and fake gems serve no purpose except ornamentation and will not create the desired results of the original gem.
A Word of Caution

Remember, a gem is only a means to end and not the end of sorrows, obstructions, etc. Do not believe anyone who says that all your problems will come to an end after you start wearing a lucky gem. Just as astrology is the torchlight to truth, and not the truth in itself (which is for you to seek with your own effort), gems can be a valuable aid to life, but not the ultimate solution.

The Hidden Magic of Gems [part 3]

the benefits of gemstones
Steeped in myths and legends, countless beliefs and fascinating tales are related about the mysterious powers of gems and precious stones. Wearing a blue sapphire, for instance, is believed to bring you a fortune, love, and release from prison! Since ancient times, gems and precious stones have been associated with the zodiac signs and continue to be credited with possessing power to bring luck and change the course of an individual's life.
What Benefits Can a Gemstone Bring?

In the professional sphere, a Gem or a precious stone can help most of you to achieve breakthroughs which have topped your list of aspirations for a long time. You won't have to wait in the wings if you're wearing a suitable gem. Instead, your skills and expertise can be in demand and you'll be able to build up a strong reputation as a consistent worker who can deliver quality, even when circumstances are stacked against a positive outcome. Seniors and people in authority can be inclined to accept many of your ideas and proposals, while colleagues and juniors can be more cooperative if you wear an auspicious Gem. In business, the right Gem can enable you to usher in and sustain a phase of expansion. Your capacity to visualize plans, which are responsive to market trends, can be enhanced manifold and many of you can quickly find that you're amongst the front-runners in your field. A Gem can also enable you to adopt the most sophisticated marketing techniques. Romantic involvement can become more intense and important decisions kept in abeyance can be easier to deal with in a long term context. In many cases, a Gem could hasten marriage or a meeting with a special someone, in addition to saving your marriage if it's heading for the rocks. If you suffer off and on from respiratory problems or are concerned about putting on weight, a Gem would be just what you need. Overall, your run of success can gain power and pick up speed if you wear a Gem in 2002. And in the bargain, many of the weak areas in your life can be transformed into strengths if you wear a Gem.
At Work

A Gem can lift you to new heights by bringing out the best in you. Your strong qualities such as diligence, patience, tenacity of purpose and an eye for detail can grow stronger if you wear a Gem; while your weak areas, such as a tendency to get bored quickly, or change your mind too often, can also benefit from a Gem. Many of the ideas and plans which were gestating in your mind, can, under the influence of a Gem, become ripe for implementation in a remarkable manner. Your creativity and administrative abilities can reach new heights and you'll be ready to step into a position of authority. Promotions that were held up due to an assortment of factors can soon move towards a favorable outcome. While seniors can be demanding, a Gem can ensure that commensurate facilities and perks or remuneration are placed at your command in 2012. Work connected with medicine, the law or communication can benefit tremendously if you wear the right Gem. Freelancers and those who are 'self employed' can also gain immensely from a Gem and can be able to cash in optimally on the infrastructure available.
At Home

Wearing a Gem in 2008 can induce many of you to create a home within a home. This means that you could shift your office or a part of it into your home, add more living space to your residence, or undertake a thorough spring-cleaning or re-arranging which can provide you with a lot more room than before, an additional home as it were. A Gem can enable many of you to pick up some truly beautiful furnishings for your home. Throughout 2012, most of you can be adding to your inventory of electronic items. Food and clothes both can assume, largely indirectly, additional interest for you in 2012 and, under the infuence of a Gem, you'll develop a keen eye for spotting just the right gifts even when the choice is very wide.
Love and Romance

By wearing the right kind of Gem, love can become as constant in your life as the water you drink. If you're waiting for somebody who matches your fancies, a Gem can bring the momentous moment of meeting closer. If you feel that romance in your life is beginning to pall, a Gem could act like champagne. While a Gem could also lead some of you up the path of fantasies which have little chance of becoming part of real

life, it can certainly mark the beginning of a most satisfying phase in love and romance. A Gem can ensure that alliances riddled by uncertainties become more solid and stable relationships acquire a special lustre.
Business and Finances

Business can prosper and finances can soar skywards at a rapid pace if you wear the right gem. Opportunities to improve your business and financial prospects can become abundant through an unexpected chain of events. Market conditions can tend to favour you and the financial grapevine can provide you with excellent tips. Even if the product you're relying on falls below expectations or you're unable to meet delivery schedules, a Gem can ensure that you'll get a second chance to redeem or re-establish your reputation. Payments held up in the market can come in more regularly than before and widen your scope for investment. However, despite the of business and financial benefits that a Gem yields, often unexpectedly, the optimum results can stem from partnerships. Loans and funds can be easily available, but the initial paperwork may entail a lot of time wasted despite help from the Gem. Overall, a Gem can ensure stability, growth and a heartening increase in profits in 2008.
Health

Freedom from various health problems, a trim figure, greater resistance to infections a Gem can ensure all this and more for you in your life.

The Hidden Magic of Gems [part four]

Navratna, the Nine Gems
In Indian tradition, the sacred gems relating to the nine planets are called The Nine Gems, or "navratna". Each of these gems has a traditional role to play in either strengthening or counteracting the power of its ruling planet. This article by Uma Shankar Shukla concludes by examining the Nine Gems. YELLOW SAPPHIRE or Topaz/Pushkaraj (for Jupiter). This is one of the most widely used gems to help achieve better financial status. The wearer may expect wealth, good health, name, honour and fame if the gem suits him or her. It is also believed that if there are obstructions in finding a suitable match for a girl, she will marry early by wearing a Yellow Sapphire. This is normally light yellow in colour. Topaz or Pushkaraj is a cold gem. It improves vision, gives life security, protects from poverty, removes adversity, misfortune and melancholy. In diseases, Topaz cures diarrhea, gastritis, ulcer, rheumatism, jaundice, insomnia, heart troubles, impotency, gout, arthritis, pain in knee joints, etc. Topaz should be worn in gold, on 1st finger of right hand on Thursday. The weight should be of 7 or 13 grams. PHYSICAL PROPERTIES Sapphires, are simply crystallized alumina (Al2O3) and in their pure form are devoid of colour. Sapphires are found in various colours which include pink, blue, green, yellow, orange and white. In India, Yellow Sapphire is known as Pukhraj and Blue Sapphire is known as Neelam. It has a specific gravity of 3.99, mean refractive index (RI) 1.765 and Hardness of 9 on the Moh's scale.

OCCURRENCE Sapphires are found in India, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Russia, Thailand, Australia, U.S.A, U.K., Nepal, Mexico, Zambia and Nigeria. In India, Sapphires are found in Jammu and Kashmir. These are considered to be the best in the world. Some sapphires are also found in Orissa, but they are not of very high quality. IDENTIFICATION Natural Sapphires carry within them clear signs of slow crystallization. Some of the external elements sometimes remains preserved in the Gem which helps its identification. Like all other precious gems it should have inclusions which should be visible to the naked eye or under magnification. Otherwise, it is a piece of glass or a synthetic substance. The inclusions are generally like 'feathers' or are like finger print impressions. Liquid inclusions looking like lace are also sometimes visible. Synthetic Sapphires are very common in the market and many traders in order to earn fast money sell them as originals. These are very clear and under magnification show bubble like inclusions. Sometimes feather like inclusions have also seen but they shine abnormally under light.

BLUE SAPPHIRE or Neelam (for Saturn) Neelam removes the evil effects of Saturn. It is said that this stone has the magical power to elevate its user to a higher status from all sides. Some astrologers believe that Blue Sapphire or Neelam is so powerful if used properly that it can alleviate even long-term misfortune. However, there is a caution. Sometimes this stone may react adversely. It is advisable to test it first for a week before final wearing. It could give you everything you could desire health, wealth, longevity, happiness. It also restores lost wealth and property. Sapphire is normally faint or dark blue in colour. It is a very cold gem. Sapphire may also be yellow. It brings wealth, name and fame. Also gives good stamina, longevity and security in life. Can improve fertility in a barren woman. Best suited for joy, love and happiness. It cures fainting, fits, virility, mental disorder, deafness and baldness. It should be used on 2nd finger of right hand in gold or panch dhatu on Saturday and the weight is 5 or 7 grams. RUBY Manik (for Sun) Ruby is said to give name, fame, vigour, virtue, warmth and the capacity to command to its user. It can also raise the individual far above the status into which he was born. Historically, it has been symbolic of love and passion. It is normally red in colour. Ruby is a hot stone. On the disease front: Ruby helps cure peptic ulcer, fever, rheumatism, gout etc. However prolonged use may cause boils, itch and insomnia as well. Do consult an astrologer or a gemologist before wearing this, or any other stone. Ladies should avoid the use of Ruby as it can destroy the body lustre. Ruby should be used in gold on third or ring finger of right hand on Sunday. Ideally it should be about 3 or 5 grams in weight. PHYSICAL PROPERTIES

The name Ruby comes from Latin Rubrum, which means 'Red'. Ruby, which is corundum, is simply crystallized alumina (Al2O3) and in pure form is devoid of colour. The rich colour in Ruby is mainly due to small amounts of chronic oxide, which is able to replace part of alumina without disturbing the trigonal crystal structure. It has a specific gravity of 3.99. Mean Refractive Index is 1.765 and the hardness is 9 on the Moh's scale. OCCURRENCE Ruby is found in Burma, Thailand, Sri Lanka, East Africa, Kenya, Nepal, Afghanistan, India and Pakistan. The best Rubies are from the Magok district of Burma. Thai Rubies are comparatively less attractive and the Rubies found in Sri Lanka are pink. IDENTIFICATION Natural Rubies are never 'clean' i.e., without inclusions. They contain inclusions which look like 'silk'. Natural Ruby encloses small crystals of other minerals, in the form of pale angular grains, cavities of irregular shapes, patches of fine needle-like crisscrossing canals which give a silky effect by reflected light. If these inclusions are not visible to the naked eye, then the eyeglass should be used to detect them. If even under high magnification no such inclusions are visible, then the gem you are checking is most probably a piece of glass. A synthetic Ruby will either not contain any inclusions or else it will have bubble-like inclusions, or cracks (as seen in a glass) will be visible. The cracks will give a milky hue and will be of an even nature.

EMERALD Panna (for Mercury) Emerald improves faculties related to the brain such as memory, communication, intuition, the intellect and the ability to learn. It is normally petal green or dark green in colour. Emerald is a hot gem. It increases intelligence and brainpower, removes and cures fickle-mindedness, loss of memory, stammering, fear from souls and spirits, cooling harsh speech. One of the interesting observations about Emerald is that it is not prescribed for newly wed couples. It is said that newly married couples should not use it, as it impairs conjugal happiness due to reduction in sexual desires. It is also useful for curing diarrhea, dysentery, gastritis, peptic ulcer, asthma, insomnia, heart troubles, etc. Emerald should be used in gold of 3, 5, 7 or 10 grams on 4th finger of right hand on Wednesday. An Emerald wearer is likely to find sufficient wealth. PHYSICAL PROPERTIES Emerald, which is a Gem of Beryl family, is a silicate of beryllium and aluminium 3BeO.Al2O3.6SiO2. The colour of Emerald is mainly due to traces of chromium replacing aluminium ions in the hexagonal beryl crystal. It has a specific Gravity of 2.71, mean refractive index is 1.58 and hardness is 7.5 on the moh's scale. OCCURRENCE Emerald is found in Colombia, Brazil, Russia, Tanzania, South Africa, India, Australia, Austria, Pakistan, Kenya and Zambia. In India, Emeralds are found in Rajasthan, Orissa and Madhya Pradesh. IDENTIFICATION

Emeralds from various mines have different kinds of inclusions, which can be seen with the naked eye, or else under magnification. If no inclusions are seen even under magnification, the chances are that the Gem under examination is either a piece of glass or a fake. Inclusions in Emeralds include flakes of mica, fibrous material, milky-white spots, straw, bamboos and small cubes of rock salt are seen sometimes. Black spots are also seen in Emeralds. Emeralds were formed when lava coming out from the volcanoes solidified on the surface of the earth. At this stage its fast solidification led to certain flaws in its crystal formation and certain foreign elements also entered the matrix. Synthetic Emeralds contain nail-like inclusions, brush-marks or chains of bubbles.

RED CORAL Praval or Moonga (for Mars) It is said that Red Coral instills courage in its wearer. It also helps in curing blood -related diseases. It is normally red in color. Coral ensures material happiness, recovery from diseases indicated by Mars such as fever, cough, bilious complaints, smallpox, chickenpox, headache, loss of vitality, piles, boils, measles etc. It should be worn in silver or copper, and should be of 9, 11, 12 grams, on Tuesday on 1st or 4th finger of right hand. It is a hot stone. PHYSICAL PROPERTIES Coral is a product of the sea. It is formed from the calcareous skeletons of myriads of tiny polyps (meaning "insect with many feet"), which live in vast colonies in warm waters at a moderate depth. It is composed chiefly of calcium carbonate. This is arranged as fibres radiating from the central axis of the curving coral branches. Its specific Gravity is 2.68 and hardness is less than 4 on the Moh's scale. It is an opaque stone. Many forms of coral exist, but only high quality red, pink, blue, black and white corals are used in jewellery. OCCURRENCE Corals are found in India, Italy, Australia, Sri Lanka, Japan, Malaysia, South, Africa, Algeria and U.S.A. IDENTIFICATION Coral, being an opaque gem, is very difficult to identify. A practiced eye is required to differentiate between a natural and a manmade coral. Natural corals, if seen under magnification, always tell the story of their origin. They have black marks which are actually holes. A very careful examination is required to identify a natural coral. Real corals are not very clear and if clear they are very costly. Manmade corals are very commonly found in the marketplaces being sold as real corals.

DIAMOND Heera (for Venus). It is said that the one who wears a Diamond has a luxurious life . Diamond is also supposed to enhance the name, fame and artistic quality of the person. Diamond is a hot gem. It creates goodness and removes evil and

fearful thoughts in the native. It improves financial conditions and blesses the native with comforts and peace of mind. It also enhances sexual power. Also helpful in diabetes, diseases of urine, of private parts, syphillis, skin and uterine diseases. Diamond should he worn on 1st finger of right hand on Friday in gold or platinum. The weight should be 1/4 or 1/2 gram. PHYSICAL PROPERTIES The name diamond comes from the Greek 'adamas', meaning 'invincible' in recognition of its exceptional hardness which makes it resist any form of abrasion by other minerals. Diamond is carbon in its pure form. Chemically there is no difference between diamond, coal and graphite. But the unique atomic bonding makes the difference. It has a specific gravity of 3.52, mean Refractive Index is 2.418 and has a hardness of 10 on the Moh's scale. OCCURRENCE Diamonds are found in South Africa, Australia, Russia, Kenya, Ghana, Angola, Tanzania, Brazil and India. In India, Diamonds are found in Madhya Pradesh, Orrisa and Andhra Pradesh. IDENTIFICATION For a Diamond to be real, it must possess some inclusions. These inclusions are visible by naked eye or under magnification. If no inclusions, black spots or milk patches are visible in a Diamond then either it is a zirconia or piece of glass. Diamonds which do not have any inclusions under 50x magnification are very rare and can be found with collectors only. The small black spots visible in Diamonds are crystals of Graphite or other forms of Carbon. These black spots shine under light. Diamonds have an affinity for grease, the surface of a cut Diamond will generally have a film of grease if it has been handled. The most important test of a diamond is that all light entering the front of the stone is totally reflected from the back facets, which form a series of mirrors. A well-cut diamond, if viewed from the back and held up to the light, will show only a pinpoint of light from the culet. In addition, looking down on a brilliant-cut diamond, one cannot see the wearer's finger beneath the stone, as can be seen with other stones. White light entering a diamond is dispersed into a spectrum of colours, giving flasks of different colours from the smaller crown facets.

ZIRCON Gomedh or Hessonite (for Rahu) The shadow planet Rahu is supposed to be responsible for all sorts of delays or very late fulfillment of ambitions. Gomedh can help in achieving speedy success in less time than expected. Gomedh also improves dealing with people and protects its wearer from sudden misfortunes. This is normally reddishchocolate in colour. Gomedh is cold in nature. It cures diseases caused by affliction of Rahu and Saturn. It also increases appetite, vitality, confers good health, wealth and happiness and all round prosperity. It is said to be the best gem to avert stomach ailments, disaster, insanity, and evil spirits. It should be used in silver on Saturday on 2nd finger of right hand. The weight should be 6, 11, 13 grams.

PHYSICAL PROPERTIES Its name comes from Greek 'esson' meaning 'inferior', since these gems are supposed to be less valuable. Gomedh is a Gem of the Garnet family. Magnets can pull these Gems, which is a very special phenomenon, as magnets otherwise pull only certain metals. Chemically it is known as Grossular (3CaO.Al2O3.3SiO2). It is found in number of colours like green and pink, but generally it is orange brown. It has a hardness of 7.25 on the Moh's Scale, specific gravity is 3.65 and Refractive Index is 1.74. OCCURRENCE It is available in abundance. It is found in India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Australia, Tanzania, South Africa, Burma, Mexico, Russia, Italy, Kenya, Canada, U.S.A, and Malaysia. In India it is found in Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Rajasthan and Bihar. Gaya mines in Bihar are the biggest source of this gem. Recently, very good quality of this Gem has been found in Orissa. IDENTIFICATION This Gem contains inclusions which look like scattered islands or flat bubbles. The colour is like honey shining under a ray of light. The inside, when viewed under magnification looks like a thick sticky liquid and certain areas look out of shape with lesser transparency.

CAT'S EYE Lehsuniya (for Ketu) This protects its wearer from hidden enemies, mysterious dangers and diseases. It is normally milky in colour. The gem is very hot in nature. In the event that it does not suit the wearer, the gem sometimes gives immediate signals like uneasiness, restlessness etc. Cat's Eye is supposed to counter the evil effects of Ketu and diseases caused by Mars. It may prevent unexpected mishaps of life, curing mania, paralysis etc. It protects the wearer from accidents and secret enemies. For businessmen, it is a miraculous resultgiving stone, bestowing wealth by secret means like horse racing, gambling, stock exchange market and speculations. It also protects from drowning, intoxication, and Government punishment. It is said to bring fortunes to those who gamble (horseracing, casinos) and should be worn in gold on 2nd finger or 3rd finger of right hand. The weight should be 3, 5 or 7 grams. PHYSICAL PROPERTIES Cat's Eye is a gem which displays a band of light at the top which moves when the gem is tilted. The Mineral is chemically known as Chrysoberyl (BeO.Al2O3). The chemical bonding is rhombic. It is generally found in greenish, brownish, yellowish and colourless shades. It has a specific gravity of 3.71 and hardness of 8.5 on the Moh's scale. It is a fairly hard material which wears well as a ring stone, although it is brittle. OCCURRENCE Cat's Eye is found in Sri Lanka, Brazil and India on a very big scale. It is also found in South Africa, Russia, Burma and U.S.A. In India, it has been found in a very big way in Orissa. It is also found in Kerela, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Bihar.

IDENTIFICATION Being an opaque gem poses certain difficulties in differentiating the natural gem from artificial material. One striking difference that one can tell after some experience of seeing natural Cat's Eye Gems is that the artificial Cat's Eye will be too clear and the Cat's Eye effect will be too marked. But a closer examination under magnification will show signs of a natural gem like small marks, grains of stone and the small irregularies below the polished surface. The lower part of a Cat's Eye is not polished but only ground, so one can see the roughness of the stone there.

PEARL Mukta (for Moon) One who possesses or wears a good pearl enjoys the blessings of Laksmi, the goddess of prosperity. This blessed one will live long and become free of evil, developing vitality and intelligence. He or she will achieve much renown and come to a high position due to the wisdom endowed by the pearl. PHYSICAL PROPERTIES The best pearls are moonlike, shining white in colour, with a perfectly round, globular shape. They should be compact, with a high specific gravity, spotless and free from blemishes. The appearance should be lustrous and smooth. Pearls may be white, giving spiritual gifts, rosy, giving intelligence and power, yellow, bringing material prosperity. Black pearls are rare, but are not ideal for development. Coppery or non-lustrous, dirty, cracked, misshapen or otherwise defective pearls should be avoided as they are inauspicious. OCCURRENCE Pearls are found in Sri Lanka, India, Persian Gulf, Venezuela, Mexico and Australia. Australian pearls are generally considered less desirable. Sri Lankan pearls are considered the best, though pearls from Bahrain are highly prized. In India the best pearls come from Bay of Bengal and fom Tuticorin in South India. IDENTIFICATION Pearls grow inside oysters and rarely elsewhere (bamboo, cobra, conch etc). Today cultured pearls are available which may be distinguished from genuine pearls by the bore, which is unifom in the genuine, but thin at the start and wide in the middle in the cultured pearl. Another difference is the structure, which is concentric in the genuine pearl, but parallel in the cultured. Natural pearls are also available. These are created like cultured pearls by the intentional insertion of foreign matter into the oyster, but mother-of-pearl is used rather than glass bead. Natural pearls are better than cultured pearls, but both are acceptable if a genuine pearl is unavailable. Imitation pearls made from fish scales are also sold, but these are not suitable for our purposes. Misshapen or otherwise defective pearls are not suitable either, although very small genuine pearls (too small for jewellery) may be powdered and used for medicinal purposes.

One very important factor, which anyone trying to identify a Gem should note, is that some "faults" are always present in a genuine Gem their absence and not their presence should be a cause for concern. However, as a rule, any Gem should be shaped in a pleasing manner, lustrous, of pure colour and fine texture. Pearls in particular should not be misshapen.

This concludes the article. Return to the start of The Hidden Magic of Gems. Or go on to read Uma Shankar's article on The Healing Power of Gems.

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The Healing Power of Gems
the secret vibrations of stones
All stones and gems have magnetic powers. Our leading Jyotish astrologer, Uma Shankar Shukla, advises that most of them also have the power to heal. The vibrations and frequencies they emit influence human beings in a very powerful way. They create strong energy fields that are absorbed by the body. The creative world of the universe has three qualities light, rhythmic motion and colour. Every luminous body emits radiation, which travels through space in the form of waves and pulses at a certain frequency. Light emanates seven major rays that have varying wavelengths. Gems are the manifestation of cosmic light. Each gem has a special colour that works as a prism to concentrate and focus light into one's body.
Cosmic Radiation and Chakras

It is a scientifically known fact that our body is composed of cosmic radiation and seven colours. These colours are violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange and red The balance of these colours in our body is disturbed over time. Colours heal because of certain molecular reactions that occur in the organs due to light. Gems if chosen scientifically provide radiation, which are beneficial for the body. Our body is generated by seven major chakras:

The first is found over the base of the spine. The second, over the spleen and sexual organs. The third is located over the solar plexus. The fourth is located over the heart. The fifth chakra is found at the throat. The sixth is the third eye, between the eyebrows. The seventh is found over the crown of the head.

Our body heals when white light flows harmoniously through the chakras. Problems arise when there are obstructions to this light entering a chakra. Gems emanate the rays needed by each chakra and radiate a light that goes to revitalise those cells that are not functioning properly. Similarly each gem radiates a colour that goes to heal the aura that encircles each human being. The aura exists in seven states which are the physical-etheric, the astral, the lower mental, the higher mental, the spiritual causal, the intuitive and the divine or absolute plane. The rays emanated by gems with their energy add comfort and serenity to our lives and create harmony both in the body as well as our aura, which create a healthy and conducive atmosphere The result is that we gain positive results in every aspect of life: wealth, power, health and fame.

Each gem is a perennial source of a particular ray. These rays never become exhausted, even after years of use. They can cure maladies when medicines fail.
Mysterious Powers

Steeped in myths and legends, countless beliefs and fascinating tales are related about the mysterious powers of gems and precious stones. Wearing a blue sapphire, for instance, is widely believed to bring you a fortune, love, and even release from prison. Since ancient times, gems, precious and semi-precious stones have been associated with the zodiac signs and continue to be credited with possessing power to bring luck and change the course of an individual's life. Which, according to the zodiac, is the right stone for you this year and what can it do for you in the months ahead.....? In part two of this article, Uma Shankar explains that gems can protect us against the bad influence of malefic planets, for they release positive energy. They can also reinforce the good influence of the benefic planets, if used properly.

The Healing Power of Gems [part 2]

the secret vibrations of stones
Gems can protect us against the bad influence of malefic planets, for they release positive energy. They can also reinforce the good influence of the benefic planets, if used properly.

Each gemstone has its own energy, which stimulates the body through the chakra system, in accordance with the individual horoscope. You should not attempt to use the energy of gems for healing without seeking the guidance of a skilled astrologer. We will now look at the character of some of the main semi-precious gemstones:
Moonstone

Moonstones are a form of silicate from the feldspar group. They are examples of the commonest mineral in the earth's crust and are found in a wide variety of rocks. Their chemical composition can be written as the general formula X(Al,Si) 4O8 in which the X may be either Calcium, Sodium, Potassium or Barium. Moonstones in particular belong to the orthoclase feldspar group, found in igneous rocks such as pegmatites and granites or in crystalline schists and veins and in particular sedimentary ore deposits. The best known moonstones are found in Switzerland, Piedmont Italy. Moonstones have a translucency and a greyish white color that looks as if you are actually viewing the Moon on a cloudy night. According to Indian astrology, moonstones are also known as chandramanis or the semi-precious stone for Moon. People wear a moonstone to propitiate a negative Moon in the birthchart, or at times even if the Sun is found in a powerful but negative position, as it then provides a cooling effect. Wearing a moonstone brings about peace of mind , the ability to concentrate, the fruition of love and prevention from betrayals in love and marriage The waxing and waning of the Moon, a fundamental part of the astrological system, plays an important role in the determination of our destinies. Contrary to popular belief, the lunar phases of darkness that can creep into one's stellar chart in the form of the umbras and penumbras of rahu and ketu (Moon's nodes) merit close attention and treatment. More on the Moon's nodes. The moonstone plays the same role as the pearl in gem therapy, with one major difference: it is capable of causing a great deal of cooling that may result in the wearer being exposed to health ailments associated with colds and chills. Therefore it is better to wear the moonstone only in conjunction with another stone

that is capable of producing heat, or associated with stellar bodies that are heat-generating, like the planet Mars (coral) or Sun (ruby). Ideally moonstones should be worn set in silver, with a stone of minimum weight of 5 and a quarter rattis on the little finger of the left hand. [One rattika = 0.59 metric carats. ed.]
Topaz

Topaz is found in Minas Gerias, Brazil, Nigeria, San Diego California, Rhodesia, Corneal, Mourne Mts, Ireland, Urals , USSR, Burma, South west Africa and elsewhere. Topaz occurs in its natural colour of golden yellow, but is also found in brown, red-blue, colourless or pink. Streaks in the stone are usually colorless and do not affect the astrological value of wearing the stone. Known by the formula AL2SiO4(OH,F)2, Topaz is used as a faceted stone and as a cabuchon. Cutting from crown to pavilion at the angle of 40 degrees brings out the best in the stone. Topaz, a lustrous stone, is the birthstone of people born in November particularly of the sign of Scorpio. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic system of silicates. It is often found as water worn pebbles, hence its identification with the water sign of Scorpio. Topaz is known as pushprag in Sanskrit, but is not to be confused with the yellow Sapphire. The two are often prescribed in astrology for the same purpose, namely that of strengthening Jupiter in one's star chart. The position of a square, opposed, or hostile Jupiter could mean the deprivation of love of a father, loss of affection with brothers, the minimizing of love of male members of the family and loss of repute, honour and prestige in literary, political and academic circles. The Topaz is worn as an inexpensive substitute for the yellow sapphire on the index finger of either hand, set in gold with a minimum weight of 4 carats. In part three of this article, Uma Shankar notes that each gemstone has its own energy, which stimulates the body through the chakra system, in accordance with the individual horoscope.

The Healing Power of Gems [part 3]

the secret vibrations of stones
Each gemstone has its own energy, which stimulates the body through the chakra system, in accordance with the individual horoscope. You should not attempt to use the energy of gems for healing without seeking the guidance of a skilled astrologer. This is the third part of our article by leading astrologer Uma Shankar Shukla. It continues our examination of the character of some of the main semi-precious gemstones:
Peridot

Peridot, the gem with a citrus green colour, belongs to the Olivine group of silicates from forsterite to fayalite. The peridot forms prismatic crystals often in the form of grains or masses with colours that vary from bright green to those tinged with brown. It may have a yellowish streak and vitreous lustre. Peridots are found in the islands of Zabarjad in the Red Sea, Burma, Hawaii (this variety may contain some chromium), Arizona, the Eiffel region of former West Germany, and Brazil. These gems occur in igneous rocks like basalt and gabbro, or as a metamorphic product of sedimentary rocks containing silica or magnesium, such as impure dolomites. They may even occur as crystals in meteoritic iron. The Peridot is worn as the natural birthstone of people born in the month of august and in particular natives of the star sign of Leo. This stone is at times worn as a substitute for emerald, but usually it is worn to bring about strength of character, avoidance of too spirited a nature, a sense of discipline and rewards in military

service. This stone can be worn on the ring finger of the right hand in any metal with a minimum weight of 5 carats.
Catseye

Catseyes are end members of the actinolite tremolite isomorphous series. They occur as tremolites and are known as Catseyes when they form green fibrous crystals. The same mineral in pale shades and shades of white forms nephrite jade, or if found in pink, hexagonite. The Catseyes can also be found in shades of brown or yellow. They are known as Catseyes because the polished version of the stone bears a single vertical streak, resembling the eye of a cat. Due to this unusual phenomenon, the cat's eye effect is the name given to the ability of a stone to allow a single band of light to traverse through it, known as chatoyancy. Catseyes are mined in Italy, Switzerland, Ontario, California and Arizona. The birthstone for those born in the month of April, Catseye is associated with power in the face of adversity and the ability -- like a cat -- to cultivate the instinct of self-preservation during adversity. Catseye is prescribed in gemology as the stone for those suffering from the harmful effects of ketu or the dark phase of the Moon. The dasha (astrological period) of ketu, the Moon's south node, could last up to one and a half years, so it is advisable to consult your astrological chart before wearing the stone. Wearing a Catseye during this period can prevent negative influences on your personal life, good name and reputation, bringing gain from your work and occupation. The Catseye should be worn on the middle finger of either hand, in a ring of gold with the striation (or line) absolutely clear.
Tourmaline

One of the most interesting semi-precious stones, Tourmaline captivates the imagination of the wearer due to its multi-coloured hues. These almost give it a navratna (sacred gem) quality. This gem is worn as the bringer of wealth and in particular as a good luck charm. Rather than being worn on the person, for maximum benefit it should be kept in cashboxes, factories, stores and all places where goods, money or merchandise is kept. Once again a silicate, Tourmaline has a low melting point which requires that the stone be kept cool while cutting and faceting. Tourmaline crystallizes in the hexagonal system, as a prismatic crystal with a rounded, triangular cross section. Its colours are red (better known as rubellite, or akin to the colour of ruby), blue (or indicollite, as the colour suggests the colour of indigo), yellow, brown, green, black and colourless or particoloured. With a specific gravity of 3.0-3.1 and a refractive index of 1.62, it occurs in granite, pegmatite and metamorphic rocks. Tourmalines are found in Sri Lanka, Brazil, Mozambique, Maine, Malagasy, among other places. In part four of this article, leading astrologer Uma Shankar Shukla concludes our examination of the character of some of the main semi-precious gemstones.

The Healing Power of Gems [part 4]

the secret vibrations of stones
This is the fourth part of our article by leading astrologer Uma Shankar Shukla. It concludes our examination of the character of some of the main semi-precious gemstones:
Amber

Amber is a fossil resin with a chemical combination close to C10H16O, containing some Hydrogen sulfide. It is most commonly brown or yellow, but may also be green, or reddish or close to white. It commonly displays a bluish-white fluorescence under long-wave ultraviolet light, where it begins to look green.

Amber is associated with magical and healing powers. It is an organic mineral, not unlike pearl or coral, since amber derives from the pine trees of the Oligocene period, notably from pinus succinifera. The major sources of Amber are in the Kalingrad area of the USSR, as well as the Baltic coast, the east coast of England, Burma, Sicily and Romania. Amber is used to symbolise power, command and authority. It indicates that rewards come through the productive intellect and the harvest of creative faculties. Wearing amber, either as a stone or as a string of beads, brings victory despite competition and opposition. It counteracts the dangers of loss through law.
Garnet & Gomed

Garnet is the better known name of the mineral Grossular, occurring as a cubic silicate of the Garnet group. Its varying colours give it the different names of almadine, andradite, grossular, pyrope, spessartine and uvarovite. Gomed is also known as Hessonite or Cinnamon Stone, on account of its colour. It differs from the Garnet in that it does not have a maroon tinge, but borders more on dark brown with tinges of honey gold. There is a cheaper variety in shades of a reddish black, but those stones are not suitable for astrological purposes. The Gomed is found in sedimentary deposits of Ceylon and India and in particular from Patna, Mysore and Gaya. It is the birthstone of people born under the sign of Aquarius and Capricorn and is the birthstone of those born in the month of January. The stone has the effect of preventing a person from suffering from the harmful effects of Saturn during the seven and a half year period that usually afflicts a person in the star chart and differs from the sapphire in that it is worn to mitigate the effect of Saturn and not to strengthen it. A gomed or garnet should be at least 6 carats in weight and worn preferably in silver on the middle finger of the right hand.
Aquamarine

A gem that belongs to the beryl family, aquamarine is mined as granite pegmatite, biotite schist, and hydrothermal veins. Examples are found in hexagonal systems as prismatic crystals, sometimes with vertical stripes and striations and have a light blue or green colour. While they are mined along with emeralds and in many ways belong to the same family, they differ in their astrological use. Wearing of an Aquamarine tends to bring out the spiritual path in one's life with a growth in intuition and sensitivity and as a result a quieter life with lofty ambitions. Its bluish green rays bring out strong and unmistakable psychic ties and makes one develop the gift of powerful telepathic communication.
Lapis Lazuli

Lapis Lazuli is a mineral known as Lazurite, a silicate of the feldspathoid group. Lazurite crystallizes to a deep and magnificent blue that is opaque with a touch of greenish blue. It has a dull lustre and occurs in limestone as a mineral of contact metamorphism with calcite and pyrite. The best known varieties of Lapis Lazuli come from the Kokcha river valley, Badakshan, Afghanistan, the Andes of Chile, California etc.. Used in the inlay work of the Taj and of mosques all over the Middle East, it has been used as a stone worn along with the turquoise as a birthstone for those born in the month of December. Wearing a lapis makes the wearer full of determination to see their tasks through to the end, fearless, courageous and good warriors. It ensures triumph over enemies and the power to see through any mask or deception. It was known to protect one from enemies and help protect the faith, as obstacles to the implementation of one.s agenda come to an end.

Zircon

Zircon is a gem that is found naturally mined as an accessory mineral in igneous rocks and also in some metamorphic rocks. Also found in some sedimentary deposits as a detrital mineral, the best zircons come from Thailand, Sri Lanka in the metamict varieties, the red varieties from Expailly St. Marcel, France, Burma, Australia, St. Peters Dome, El Paso, Colorado and others. Its chemical formula is Zr Si O4. Zircon is often mistaken for an American diamond, however while the latter is an artificially synthesized YAG, created by man in laboratories, the Zircon is mined. It is one of nature's greatest gifts as a substitute for the costly diamond; for astrological purposes, zircon works like it as well. Symbolic of the planet Venus, it prevents the outbreak of irritation or worries in your surroundings, bringing order and calm to one's life. It is symbolic of success in marital relations and is often recommended to end strains in relationships and the growth in one's status in government and society. The heat sensitivity of a Zircon is rather low and when making jewellery, the stone should be removed or set afterwards, as it is liable to crack if exposed to a flame.
Rose Quartz

Quartz is one of the most commonly occurring minerals. It crystallizes in the hexagonal system, so it naturally has six sides. The atoms of silica are found arranged helically along the axis of reference. Crystals are described as being right-handed and left-handed. If a crystal is right-handed, there is a trigonal pyramid in the upper right corner of the prism face and all striations slope on the right. Light travels through quartz parallel to its axis and as a result one sees bands of light in quartz from left to right. When subjected to mechanical stress, quartz develops electric charges. The rose quartz is the pink variety of quartz, though they are found in other colours as well including amethyst, citrine(yellow), smoky brown or black carnelian (red or brown), Moss agate and chalcedony, flint and jasper, all of which belong to the same family as quartz. Low in heat sensitivity, rose quartz is one of the fine quartzes that form over 27% of the earth's oxides and hydroxides. It is found in the area of Rio Grande de Norte at the Alto Feio, in the Malagasy Republic and in India. Rose quartz is worn for astrological purposes to bring about security, strength and roots in things as trivial as mortgages and loans to the more serious aspects of relationships. It allows your dimensions and views to be expanded and promises transparency in dealings.
Quartz Crystal (Rock Crystal)

This mineral is perhaps the best known of them all, as its favourite use lies in tableware, vases and jewellery -- and even fortune telling in the form of a crystal ball! The most popular crystal mined for these purposes is one from the sulfate family, better known as gypsum. Gypsum or Ca SO4.2H2O crystallizes in the monoclinic system as tabular flat crystals or in extreme cases as granular masses with perfect cleavage -meaning the stone splits into two quite comfortably while cutting and polishing. Better known for its white quality, it also appears as colourless, green, yellowish or brownish with a green fluorescence under ultraviolet light. Crystals are found in sedimentary deposits in saline lakes and in volcanic deposits. The best known varieties are found in the London area, Sussex and Kent, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Chihuahua, Mexico, Chile, France, USSR, Australia and others. Crystals are known to have tremendous healing and curative powers. They are used to protect one from frequently falling ill. Crystal can be worn as a pencil-shaped pendant around the neck or kept in the house in a spot where there is prominent exposure to sunshine. This is the end of the article.
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The Moon's Nodes

North Node | South Node

In astrology, the Moon's Nodes (the Dragon's Head and Tail) are not planets in the strict astronomical sense, but rather sensitive points on the ecliptic, where the pathway of the Moon crosses the course of the Sun. The ecliptic is the path of the Sun through the heavens as seen from the Earth and projected onto the Celestial Sphere. The pathway of the Moon around the Earth is not the same as the ecliptic, so the body of the "energy dragon" is the fourth-dimensional path of the Moon by declination, as she weaves her web around the earth. The nodes are also known as the Dragon's Head (Caput Draconis), the North Node, and Dragon's Tail (Cauda Draconis), the South Node, and in Indian Astrology they are called Rahu and Ketu respectively. In mythology, the Dragon sought to devour the Sun, the life-force, and the Moon, the emotional being, thus explaining the eclipses. There is a good deal we can learn from a deep consideration of this myth. The North Node, the Dragon's Head, is called the ascending node, because it marks the point where the Moon crosses the ecliptic from southern to northern celestial latitudes, and the South Node is called the descending node, marking the descent from northern to southern latitudes. The North and South Nodes are an axis, always in perfect opposition to each other, so the signs are affected in pairs (Aries/Libra; Pisces/Virgo; Aquarius/Leo etc). All the planets have nodes except the Sun and the Earth, but the Moon's Nodes are by far the most significant, in terms of human destiny. Their capacity to swallow the Sun and the Moon make them the most powerful influences in the Zodiac. The energy dragon represents Cosmic Law which everyone, even the Sun and the Moon, have to obey.
Shadow Planets

In Western Astrology, the Dragon's Head, a "shadow planet" exalted in Gemini, is considered generally benefic (good), whilst the Dragon's Tail, exalted in Sagittarius, is considered malefic (evil) in influence. Indian (Vedic) Astrology considers both nodes to be markedly unfortunate, due to their karmic, instinctive and unconscious nature, with Rahu being the worse. After all, in the pursuit of moksha (liberation), "good" karma is just as binding as "bad" karmaand more seductive. Since they are shadow planets with no direct influence of their own, their location and aspects in the chart are of more than usual significance, and the influence of their conjunctions and their planetary dispositors is significant, for they reflect and amplify the nature of these planets. Since you have found this page, you probably know where the nodes are in your own horoscope, but if you don't, to find the position of the nodes you can calculate your own birthchart here [NOTE: the South Node is exactly opposite the North Node; South Node is not displayed in this calculator]. The motion of the Moon's Mean Node is retrograde through the zodiac at the rate of roughly one degree every 19 days (compare the 19 year cycle of lunation). I should clarify here that the Moon's Mean Node is always retrograde, but the True Node oscillates according to the Moon's "wobble". This is caused by the gravitational effects of the Earth/Moon interaction, so the True Node sometimes has periods of direct motion, which in the myth represents the stirring of the cosmic ocean, or our emotional stability at a personal level. These periods of direct motion are considered unfortunate, as they go against the "natural motion" of the nodes. The Mean Node averages this "wobble" out, so giving a clearer picture.
Eclipses and Moon Wobbles

The placement of the Nodes illustrates a relationship between the Moon, the Earth and the Sun. The Moon's Nodes mark the points where the path of the Moon's orbit around the Earth crosses the path of the ecliptic (the apparent path of the Sun and planets around the Earth) as viewed from the surface of the Earth. An eclipse takes place when either a New Moon (producing a Solar Eclipse) or a Full Moon (producing a Lunar Eclipse) occurs close to the either of the Nodes. As ancient astrologer-priests discovered, Eclipses can thus

be calculated by observing the movement of the nodal axis, shown by Dwight Ennis in Eclipses and the Moon's Nodes. As astrologer Carl Payne Tobey (1902-1980) discovered in the 1930's after a painstaking examination of a large number of major disasters, many of the most serious and traumatic catastrophes involving fire, bad weather and loss of life occur in association with eclipses, when the Sun and Moon are conjunct the Moon's Nodes, especially when other unfortunate planetary aspects coincide. However, not all of these evils are exclusively linked with eclipses, for many are associated with the Sun forming a T-square to the nodal axis, i.e. when the Sun is in a 90 aspect to the nodes. This he called a Moon Wobble, because in fact it is when the Moon is "wobbling" in its path by declination. So when the Sun forms an aspect to the nodes of 0, 90, or 180, we experience a significant likelihood of massive environmental damage with much loss of life and property. These Moon Wobbles occur every 86.5 days on average, with an orb of approximately 5 degrees (days) on either side of the precise date, when the Sun forms either the T-square with the nodal axis, or the conjunction with the North or South Nodes. Some astrologers hold that the two weeks before the partile aspect are problematic, with the week following the aspect also being notable in terms of disasters.
The Significance of the Nodes

The significance of the Nodes has been widely underestimated in Western Astrology over the past fifty years or so, due to some extent to the rise of "psychological" or "humanistic" interpretative paradigms that have devalued many traditional features of the astrologer's toolkit. However, traditional Western astrology along with Vedic, or Indian astrology, places the Nodes on the same critical level of importance as the Sun, Moon and other visible planets. They are the personal eclipse points of the chart. There is no doubt that this elevation of the Nodes to planetary status is justified, for experience shows that the movement of the Nodes has a very significant effect on human life and on the destinies of all beings who dwell on the surface of the Earth. Believe me, the Moon's Nodes are very important!
The Dragon's Head (North Node): The Dragon's Head represents your karmic objectives in this lifetime. It points the way towards soul growth and evolution. The sign holding your Dragon's Head reveals the flavour of your karma in this lifetime, while its house placement shows the area of life in which you need to develop, or become conscious of this karma. Aspects to the North Node concern or affect relationships to prevailing trends, attitudes and opportunities. Some modern astrologers hold that we should try to "actualise" the North Node at the expense of the South Node (!), but in reality the two nodes are like two sides of the same coin, just like the yin and yang of the Tao. The Dragon's Head does mark sets of circumstances that are in some way new or unfamiliar, an exploratory course that leads to the realisation of the desires and past-life commitments expressed by the placement of the Dragon's Tail. Positive aspects to the Dragon's Head are generally favourable from the benefics (Venus and Jupiter), Sun, Moon and Mercury, whilst sextile or trine from Mars, Uranus, Saturn, Neptune and Pluto also have beneficial effects. Square and opposition from the benefics and conjunction, square and opposition from the malefics (Mars and Saturn; Uranus) are unfortunate, according to the matters signified by the house and planet concerned. The Dragon's Tail (South Node): Past life hangovers are represented by the position and aspects of the Dragon's Tail. This in a sense is a "comfort zone" but the growth patterns expressed through the Dragon's Head find their origins in a longing, or an urge for fulfilment in areas marked

by the South Node's position in the chart. This is a very important position and often provides great insight into the urges that drive our lives. Aspects to the Dragon's Tail display the results of innate unconscious tendencies and karmic patterns as they emerge in life. They tend to be separative and destructive. Any aspect to the South Node from any planet is unfortunate for matters to do with the house and planet activated thereby. The position of the Dragon's Tail is generally indicative of past life connections or commitments in a relationship analysis. Relationships that seem somehow fated or inevitable usually have a strong South Node connection. Aspects thereto are also most interesting (especially if a pre-natal eclipse falls there), whether natally or in conjunction with a progression or major transit.

Progressions and transits to the natal Nodes invariably signify major releases of energy, related to the planet in question and the house activated thereby. The transiting nodes also have a remarkably powerful effect whenever they pass over a natal planet or other chart factor, such as the Part of Fortune (material wellbeing), the ascendant/descendant cusps (self vs other) or the MC/IC (public/career vs private/domestic). The Dragon's Tail in particular seems to mark relationships with a genuinely karmic quality, often signifying the emergence (and sometimes finalising) of commitments from the deep past. The Dragon's Head is more concerned with activating or energising personal ambitions, aims and developing purposes.

The Nodal Degree

The degree in which the North Node is placed in the natal chart is a highly significant one. For example, if your Dragon's Head is placed in the 22nd degree of Aries, the 22nd degree of each of the other zodiacal signs is called the nodal degree. The South Node of course is placed in the opposing degree, but this nodal degree is also considered a very sensitive point in each of the signs, so whenever the nodal degree is activated by progression or transit, significant karmic events may be expected. Moreover, should any natal planet be placed in a nodal degree, its influence is also strengthened for good or ill, depending on its character and condition.
The Nodal Return

The Moon's nodes move back by transit to their birth position once every 18.6 years or so, when the transiting nodes form a conjunction with the natal nodes. This means that in our 19th year, we have what astrologers call a Nodal Return. In our 38th year we have another one; in our 56th, another and so on. Significant moments of destiny are marked by these returns, which if we look at these years of our lives, we can clearly see. It is also notable that, because the nodes are an axis, halving this period gives the Nodal Opposition, the Counter-Nodal Return, when the transiting North Node is in conjunction with the natal South Node and vice versa. So in our 10th year, 28th year, 47th year, 66th year and so on a collision occurs in which the growth patterns indicated by the North Node clash with the established regimes of the South Node, often generating intense insecurities that lead to major transformations of the life-path. This is particularly so in the 28th year, during which the powerful energies of the progressed Lunar Return and the first Saturn Return mark the stressful transition from the Phase of Youth to the Phase of Maturity. The best way to understand the astrological nature of the Nodes might be to envisage them as bubbling pools of karmic energy. These have a massive potency, which is associated with powerful events and feelings whenever they are activated by progressions or transits. Because the nodes are pools of karma associated

primarily with the house in which they are located, the related effects are deep and often seem almost inevitable. It is not for nothing that they are called the Dragon's Head and Tail... Here endeth the lesson. NOTE: The Moon's Nodes changed sign from Capricorn/Cancer to Sagittarius/Gemini during February/March 2011, beginning a new 18 month phase. Click to read Rob's article about the cosmic phase shift via Moon's Nodes Change Sign in 2011.

Moon's Nodes Change Sign in 2011

rearranging the Cosmic Deckchairs...
Rob Tillett, astrologer and founder of Astrology on the Web, examines the effects of the Moon's Nodes changing sign from Capricorn/Cancer to Sagittarius/Gemini in February/March 2011. The Moon's Nodes are a powerful karmic force in the zodiac, which change sign every 18 months or so, marking profound changes on the world. This change of sign moves the Dragon's Head into Sagittarius, the sign of the Archer, marking a new set of drives for the world. This marks a sort of counter-nodal return for the cosmos, as the North Node is exalted in Gemini, so is effectively in fall in war-like Sagittarius, the exaltation of the South Node. This is likely to reduce the benefits to the collective of the transition, and aggravate the potential for problems in coming months. In astrology, the Moon's Nodes (the Dragon's Head and Tail) are not planets in the strict astronomical sense, but rather sensitive points on the ecliptic, where the Moon crosses from south to north latitude and vice versa. The body of the "energy dragon" is the fourth-dimensional path of the Moon by declination, as she weaves her web around the earth. The nodes are also known as the Dragon's Head (Caput Draconis), the North Node, and Dragon's Tail (Cauda Draconis), the South Node, although in Indian Astrology they are known as Rahu and Ketu. In mythology, this Dragon sought to devour the Sun, the life-force, and the Moon, the emotional being, thus explaining the eclipses. There is a good deal we can learn from a deep consideration of this myth. The North Node, the Dragon's Head, is called the ascending node, because it marks the point where the Moon crosses the ecliptic from southern to northern celestial latitudes, and the South Node is called the descending node, marking the descent from northern to southern latitudes. All the planets have nodes except the Sun and the Earth, but the Moon's Nodes are by far the most significant, in terms of human destiny. For more on the nodes, please click here.
Destruction and Reconstruction

The movement of the nodes is normally retrograde, so from February 18 (at the Full Moon in Leo) to March 3, 2011, the Moon's true north node, the Dragon's Head, will be in the first degree of Capricorn, the ambitious sign of the Sea-Goat. This is the all-important cardinal point, which has been under pressure for some time due to the adventures of Jupiter, Uranus and Saturn as they hover around this point in their various cardinal signs, creating the tensions that we have all been experiencing over the past few months. I think it's key here that the Moon's mean node has already made the jump to Sagittarius, having occupied the first degree of Capricorn between January 25 and February 13, 2011. It's notable that during this period the massive upheavals in the Middle East have occupied our attention, as the people rise up to seize their freedom from oppressive regimes. The Moon's mean node in the first degree of Capricorn has been in conjunction with the unfortunate Fixed Star, Sinistra. It is curious and apposite that this star is in the hand of Ophiuchus the Serpent Bearer, the so-called "13th Sign" of the zodiac, which was so much in the news during the last half of January. This star, described as "immoral, mean and slovenly, depraved, lustful, wanton, infamous, scandalous, addicted to sorcery and poisoning" has evidently had a "hand" in the recent, ignoble attacks on astrology in the media by people who should know better.

Because the nodes are an axis, this places the Dragon's Tail in conjunction with the malefic star Menkalinan, which does not augur well for the world. Menkalinan brings ruin, disgrace and violent death (especially as a consequence of the pursuit of luxury) and we have seen this in spades in the countries of North Africa and the Middle East, where the people have risen in fury against their despotic overlords. It is notable that the latest wave, which is smashing across Libya in North Africa is signalled in the chart of its famous leader, Col. Moammar al-Gaddafi (originally a popular revolutionary but now a multi-millionaire despot), where the south node is currently (March 1) eclipsing his natal Jupiter in the last degree of Gemini and Uranus (disruption; catastrophe) is conjunct his natal Moon at the Aries point in his sunrise chart, and square the transiting nodes. Gaddafi's regime will fall, but not without a fight! The south node brings into focus commitments from the past and the Moon stands for the public, for emotional experience and for domestic concerns, especially those of home country, the public, women and the family. The Sabian Symbol for the first degree of Cancer, which the south node has been pummelling for weeks is
On A Ship The Sailors Lower An Old Flag And Raise A New One Cancer 1

The Sun and Uranus at the Equinox on March 21 will be right on top of his natal Moon in the first degree of Aries, so it does not bode so well for the colonel, nor for his family. Interestingly, the Sabian Symbol for the first degree of Aries, which is being so hotly stimulated this year is
A Woman Just Risen From The Sea; A Seal Is Embracing Her Aries 1

On March 3 the True Node changes sign to Sagittarius, after an eighteen-month stint in Capricorn. Note that the Moon's Mean Node leaves Capricorn on February 13, 2011, preparing the way for the True Node to make the jump some weeks later. Astrologers have traditionally used the mean position for the node, as before the development of computers, the true position was too hard to calculate. It could be argued that the mean position is more appropriate, but I have been using the True Node for many years now and have found it to have the advantage.

Protesters raise the old Libyan Flag in Tobruk

At 12:38 UT (Universal Time, formerly GMT) on March 3, the True Node enters Sagittarius, heralding a substantial change in direction of the collective, marked primarily by a movement away from a formal concern with standards and traditions and finding ways of stabilising our political and economic wellbeing to a more adventurous, truth-seeking desire for personal freedom, associated with spiritual, political and religious growth and development. Sagittarius is an adventurous and independent sign, but has traditionally been seen as especially warlike and fond of conquest. Gemini is a sociable, communicative sign, but is noted for a sharp tongue and something of a double-dealing nature. This transition marks a sort of counter-nodal return for the cosmos, as the North Node is exalted in Gemini, so is effectively in fall in war-like Sagittarius, the exaltation of the South Node. This is likely to reduce the benefits to the collective of the transition, and aggravate the potential for problems in coming months.
How Does This Affect the US?

How does this significant cosmic movement affect the US and its president, Barack Obama? If we look at the US Silby chart set for July 4 1776 in Philadelphia, we see that the USA is currently undergoing a difficult Saturn Return, causing the people deep regrets and to question their role in the world, by reexamining their (sometimes egregious) errors in the past. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan come to mind, but there are plenty of other issues to mull over, such as the policies that led to the GFC, for example. US natal Saturn is in the mid-heaven, showing that the role of the common people in governance is (or should be) primary. These same common people now are in a pretty bad state, thanks to the decisions of the powerwielders. Jupiter has moved into Aries and Uranus and the Sun will join him there at the Equinox on March 21. This signals the perhaps disruptive beginning of a completely new direction for US domestic and foreign policy in the months ahead. As the nodes change sign, the Moon in the figure is exactly conjunct the US natal Moon, stressing the importance of the public and its emotional reactions, as well as the influence of women on the situation. The new direction seems to be a better one, as US leadership and fortune symbolised by natal Jupiter and Sun are well-aspected and the south node is now off their case, taking the situation out of their hands and into a new level. Prosperity will probably return as the north node is in the country's first house, but the south node hits US natal Mars in July and August 2011, when a number of other unpleasant factors coalesce, including a retro Uranus, retro Mercury, retro Ceres on the Aries point and so on. More war perhaps? Maybe even an attack on the US, but more likely an action taken to divert the public's attention.
Obama Under Pressure

President Obama has problems of his own, as his life seems to have been taken out of his hands by circumstances beyond his personal control. His marriage, though it seems strong on the outside, must be under pressure, as the south node has just crossed over his natal Venus and entered his Washington first house (nodes move in a retrograde fashion by default). This will put pressure on his self-image and his health is likely to suffer. Uranus is hovering around his natal Juno (woman as partner) creating severe pressure on his marriage and partnerships with significant women, such as Hillary Clinton. Remember his Moon is in Gemini! Jupiter and Saturn, the Great Time Lords of the zodiac, reach their landmark opposition on March 28, just before Mercury turns retrograde in Aries. This will create pressure on his children and on his personal friendships, associates and his own hopes. The matter is eased by the fact that Venus has reached the conjunction with his natal Jupiter, suggesting that his life will otherwise take a turn for the better, especially with regard to his interest in cultural pursuits and matters of the higher mind, including his appreciation and knowledge of art, music, religion, diplomacy, and law. He can use this interest to inspire others as well. He must however beware of overindulgence and exaggeration and avoid the tendency to "gild the lily". Will his ego interfere with the judgement of his advisers? Their judgements have been a bit off the beam lately... In any case he still has an opportunity to do good and should not waste it.

The Moon's True Node oscillates according to the Moon's "wobble". This is caused by the gravitational effects of the Earth/Moon interaction, so the True Node sometimes has periods of direct motion. The Mean Node averages this "wobble" out, so is always retrograde.
How Does the Movement of the Nodes Affect Each Sign?

The Sabian Symbol for the first degree of Capricorn:

"An Indian Chief Claims Power From The Assembled Tribe."

Adriano Carelli, in The 360 Degrees of the Zodiac notes that this degree tends to reduce the sense of outer isolation and inner seclusion from the rest of mankind which are the main features of the sign Capricorn. When this degree is activated, all possibilities are admitted, for the typical self-assurance of the sign is stronger than ever. Double-dealing and treachery can run rampant, but "the faith in oneself and in one's cause are driven to their utmost". As the Fiery Dragon leaps from his Earthy lair into the flaming realm of Fire, we are due for a rapid realisation of karmic debts that have accumulated and must be repaid before this cycle ends. Hence we can expect dramatic developments with regard to the position of the nodes in your own chart, as well as in the world at large through the effects on the charts of countries and their leaders. Karma is not just a mindless force, though the energies of the nodes do tend to bring out the unconscious side of things, but is a force that is designed to wake us up and shake us into a new state of awareness. Here is a brief commentary for each sign, with the current crisis point noted (due as the karma matures this February/March) and the side of life that will provide karmic experience in the period between March 2011 and September 2012.
Cardinal Signs Capricorn Crisis: relationships; self vs other; need to act Year Ahead: learn to trust; increase compassion; release fear Fixed Signs Aquarius Crisis: hidden issues; government & institutions; health; selfesteem Year Ahead: romance; selfexpression; speculation; financial growth Taurus Crisis: overstimulation; logic vs intuition; doubt; commitment Year Ahead: need for transformation; blinkered values; resisting change Leo Crisis: missed deadlines; health; used by others Mutable Signs Pisces Crisis: true friendship; wants vs needs; overdramatising Year Ahead: public image; home vs career; family relationships

Aries Crisis: domestic situation; career direction; release the past Year Ahead: travel; education; information overload

Gemini Crisis: clinging to possessions; security; role of others Year Ahead: excessive competition; partner's demands; overloaded instincts

Cancer Crisis: lack of perspective; rash action; self-centred; health

Virgo Crisis: emotional detachment; fear of standing out; alienate others

Year Ahead: practicality; overcoming anxiety; clear goals; focused mind Libra

Year Ahead: too reliant on others; finding own path; taking risks Scorpio

Year Ahead: need for control; public vs private; career demands Sagittarius

Crisis: too rigid; Crisis: arrogance; Crisis: personal values; family direction; rush to judgement; confusion; denial of self public status lack sensitivity Year Ahead: indecision; coYear Ahead: self-righteous; Year Ahead: needs of others; dependence; balanced opinionated; listen to others creating crises; balanced partnership; intense competition goals

The effects of the transiting Nodes often seem somehow inevitable and fated. This simple Sun Sign table treats this transit as though you were born at sunrise, thus affecting the 1st and 7th houses of your chart. It takes no account of the effects the Nodes may have upon the mid-heaven (MC) and the IC (4th house cusp), the Moon or any other sensitive point in your chart. If you know your rising sign, you can use it to gain a little insight, and you can now calculate it free of charge with our free on line Rising Sign Calculator. Even so, it would be best to obtain a personalised reading from your favourite astrologer, which you can order via our order form. The effects of the transiting Nodes on anyone's life, but particularly upon the collective consciousness of the world, are profound and truly significant. Forewarned is forearmed. [This is the end of the article.] =================

Ashish Aggarwal, a Delhi-based Vaastu and Feng Shui expert, believes that through the proper practice of these two sciences, anyone can attain peace, prosperity and progress in his or her life. Your destiny can be enhanced with a harmonious balance of the Vaastu and Feng Shui elements in your life. Having a deep interest in human psychology and spiritualism, Ashish has been pursuing Vaastu (the Indian version of Feng Shui) for the past 5 years as an independent consultant in Delhi, India. Like any expert Feng Shui consultant, Ashish places great importance on providing the optimal remedies for a client's well-being. His clientele includes many satisfied people whom he has successfully guided to a better situation.

Feng Shui
valuable ways to improve your personal and financial wellbeing
Feng Shui, which literally means wind and water, is the ancient Chinese art of creating positive energy. It is fast becoming a popular way to create ideal work and home environments. Ashish Aggarwal, a leading practitioner, explains that Feng Shui is the "Art of Placement", for it balances the life energies, or chi, in a living space. Using simple "cures", it increases the flow of positive chi and subdues the negative flow. And according to the theory of Feng Shui, harmonizing our personal chi with the chi in the environment puts us in harmony with the natural world. The history of Feng Shui is a very old story. Feng Shui, as a practical philosophy, existed before the Chinese learned to write (Gee, that must be a long time ago!). The ancient sages employed the most original and basic binary form of "Yin" and "Yang" to make sense of events in the world around them. The palaces and

tombs of the royal families built in the Tang dynasty (618-907) and in all subsequent dynasties strictly followed the prescription of the Feng Shui masters. When Buddhism reached China, it soon absorbed the Feng Shui principles and combined them with its own practices. Historical Buddhist temples, most of which are located at famous mountains in China, were all constructed in harmony with the principles of Feng Shui. The practice of Feng Shui has been severely undermined in mainland China since the middle of the 20th century. As a result of the invasion of Europeans, Chinese intellectuals began to question their heritage. Under the banner of 'learn from the west', Feng Shui is regarded as superstition by many. Yet Feng Shui has remained active in Chinese communities elsewhere, for example in Taiwan and Singapore. Moreover, the explosion of multiculturalism in the West has seen the advance of Feng Shui despite the efforts of skeptics. Feng Shui is based on the principle of Yin and Yang, and the balancing of five elements: fire, earth, metal, water and wood. Based on these factors, recommendations can be made on how to improve the relationship with the environment using the elements as remedies.
Feng-Shui Tips

We all have to earn our own living, unless of course we have been left a fortune! Everyone wants a good and stable career. However things can go very wrong (and they sometimes do) when we least expect them to. Feng Shui has some remedies for enhancing career luck and to keep generating good fortune throughout the career.

Find out your Kua number and your 4 best directions. Locate your sheng chi direction and sleep with your head pointed in this direction. If your career is going nowhere, changing the position of your main door to face your personal sheng chi direction might be of help. Stand inside your house at the door looking out to determine the directions. If you have your own office, place your desk accordingly so that it faces your sheng chi direction. Do not sit with your back to a window or a door. These features give you no 'support' for your back and you might be backstabbed or double-crossed by colleagues. Look out for any poison arrows directed at your back, caused by open shelves or sharp edges. Find a painting of mountains (without any water features, such as lakes or oceans) and place it behind your working table. If possible keep some terrapins in your office. Place potted plants to camouflage offending pillars that send out poison arrows, but be sure to take good care of the plants so that they do not wither and die. Crystals also make good remedies for such problems. According to the 8 Life Aspirations, North represents career. The element of North is water and the colour is blue. In the North section of your home or office, place a metal wind chime. But remember not to place anything that represents the Earth or Wood element in this section. Be aware of the energies in your bedroom. We spend 1/3 of our lives sleeping, so it is important to note the features in our bedroom. Watch out for features that cause dangerous sha qi (killing breath) that may affect your well-being.

Feng Shui
tips on Love, Fame and Education
Ashish Aggarwal continues this valuable article with some insights and tips for using Feng Shui to improve your Love life, Fame and Education.

Feng Shui Tips On Love

Love is an emotion all of us have experienced at one time or another. Countless songs, movies, poetry and artworks are dedicated to this powerful emotion. Many heroes and kingdoms rose and fell in the name of love. Here are some Feng Shui guides to activate your romance luck and to enhance your relationship.

If you are single or looking to improve your relationship, sleep with your head pointed in your Nien-Yin (Relationships) direction according to your Kua number. Avoid sleeping facing the door as the shar qi (killing breath) will be very strong and will cause problems in your relationship. Strengthen the Southwest section of your home. According to the Feng Shui principle of Eight Life Aspirations, the Southwest section governs romance and marital happiness. The element of the Southwest is Earth. Activate that section with a pleasant decoration of small rocks or anything made from terracotta or clay. Alternatively, hang a picture of a mountain minus any water feature. Watch out for any poison arrows brought by the edges of pillars of furniture in your bedroom. These poison arrows bring harmful shar qi and will affect you, therefore affecting your relationship as well. Cover the offending edges with a soft cloth or a potted plant. If you are single and looking for love, hang a painting of peonies, the Chinese flower of love in your house or bedroom. Also, balance the Yin and Yang in your house. If you are male, display items or photos that represent the presence of females/Yin. If you are female, some images or displays that show maleness and masculinity will be beneficial.

Feng Shui Tips On Fame

It is said that everybody has his or her 15 minutes of fame. For some, fame stares them in the face every minute of the day. Celebrities, politicians, socialites, and rich tycoons - they are always in the limelight. Reputation and fame is of great importance to them, as they represent the image of their company or their industry. Sometimes severe damage can be caused to reputations by scandals, lawsuits, convictions and gossip. Here is how you can avoid having your reputation tarnished, by using Feng Shui.

Find out your Kua number and your best directions. Sleep with your head pointed at your sheng chi direction. If your career depends a lot on good reputation and fame, renovate your house so that the main door faces your sheng chi direction. If the main door of your house opens to large and imposing building on the opposite street or the edge of a large building, by all means move out, or at least hang a Pa Kua mirror above your front door (outside only) to soften the effect of the shar qi. According to the 8 Life Aspirations, the South section governs Fame and Recognition. The element of South is fire and the colour is red. If possible, paint this section of your house a lovely shade of bright red, or hang some red drapes there. Wood produces Fire, so you can energize the fire element with the wood element. Place some wooden furniture in the South section of your home or office. You can also keep a candle burning there and hang a painting with red colour. Do not place any water feature in this section (such as an aquarium) as it will drown the natural fire element.

Feng Shui Tips On Education

Education is a lifelong pursuit. We never stop learning and growing, even when we leave our school days far behind. As Helen Keller said, "Knowledge is love and light and vision". Feng Shui can help transform average but hard working students into high achievers. Full potentials can be met and hidden abilities discovered. Below are some Feng Shui points designed to aid students (and working adults) academically.

Find out your Kua number and your 4 best directions. For example, if you have the Kua number 3, your sheng chi direction is. Sleep with your head pointed in your sheng chi direction. Change your child's sleeping position so that his/her head points to his 'Tien Yi' direction. Position your child's table so that he faces his 'Tien Yi' direction while studying. Beware of sha qi (killing breath) directed at you or your child in the bedroom. Poison arrows triggered off by protruding corners and sharp edges cause sha qi. This will cause illnesses and uneasiness and leads to distraction in a whole. Soften the effect of poison arrows by placing soft material and crystals. Do not let your child sleep or study in a room located above a garage or below a toilet. This will cause his mind to wander and distract his studies. According to the 8 Life Aspirations, education and knowledge is located in the Northeast section. The element of Northeast is Earth and the colour is beige. In this section of your house display some symbols representing the Earth element, such as pottery, porcelain and clay items. If the Northeast section is missing from your home, you can apply the above step to your own or your child's bedroom as well. Quartz crystals are strong attractors of the Earth element, so place some on a decorative table in the corner as well. Hard work and patience never hurt anybody. Be diligent in your studies or work and you will achieve something in no time at all.

Feng Shui
tips using Feng Shui for Family and Health
Feng Shui, which literally means wind and water, is the ancient Chinese art of creating positive energy. Ashish Aggarwal completes his valuable article with some tips on improving Health and Family relationships using Feng Shui.
Feng Shui Tips On Family

Children are indeed a blessing and add joy to one's household. In ancient times, a family was regarded as incomplete without children. Many methods were utilized so that couples could be successful in their bids for children. However, like many young things, children can get out of hand sometimes. Applying Feng Shui can help you enhance your relationship with your children, understanding their needs and so strengthening family ties. If you wish to enhance your relationship with your children, sleep with your head pointed at your Nien Yin direction. You can find this direction using your Kua number Sleeping in this position will help bring you closer to your children and strengthen family ties. The main door also plays a vital role in Feng Shui. If you have been trying for children or your offspring are getting out of hand, check if there is any offending man-made structure that is sending out harmful poison arrows towards your main door. According to the 8 Life Aspirations, children and descendants are governed by West. The element of West is Small Metal and the colors are Gold, Silver and White. Metal is produced by Earth and is destroyed by Fire. Avoid having any major Fire or Water element in this section of your home. If the West section is missing in your home, you can install a bright light or a mirror to partially remedy this problem. You can also activate the West section of your bedroom as well.

Colours are also beneficial in attracting good chi. In the Southeast section of your home/office, display some items in white, silver or gold. Some silverware or trophies should do just fine. Do not let your child sleep with his or her head positioned on the same wall as a toilet. This harmful position will cause your child to be distracted from studies and ultimately have bad luck.

Feng Shui Tips On Health

All the money and diamonds in the world cannot buy good health. Happiness cannot be fully experienced without good health. In fact, good health and longevity top the wish list of millions of people. In addition to the medical prescription for health, there are ways in Feng Shui to keep fit and well. Here are a few steps to achieving good health.

If you are looking to improving your health, sleep with your head pointed at your personal Tien-Yi (Heavenly Doctor) direction according to your Kua number. Do not sleep facing a mirror. The water element of the mirror will cause ill health. Avoid having any water feature in the bedroom such as aquariums, paintings of rivers and lakes, computers or televisions. Avoid sleeping in a room where a toilet or washing machine is located upstairs. Sleeping underneath an exposed overhead beam will cause headaches, depending on where the beam 'hits'. Avoid sleeping in a room located at the end of a long corridor, or where the door opens directly to a staircase. The strong flow of energy will bring illness to the occupants. Look out also for sharp edges and protruding corners that send out harmful poison arrows. Energize the East section of your home. East represents Health and Longevity - the colour of East is dark green and the element is wood. If the East section of your home is located in the living room, dining room or a room that is not used as a bedroom, place some live potted plants or furniture made of real wood to activate the corner.

Enhance your health by doing some Chinese exercises such as Chi-Kung and Tai-Chi. Here ends the article.

Richard Giles, writer, astrologer, geomancer and Feng Shui consultant, was born in Adelaide, South Australia, spending his childhood in sunny bliss in the climate of the City of Culture. The Vietnam war and conscription turned him towards another way of life. Spiritual journeys in Thailand, India and Indonesia with Buddhism and meditation led him to a new analysis of the world. He took up astrology in 1987 and more recently Feng Shui. Richard lives in sunny Queensland in the valleys of the hinterland of the Sunshine Coast at Crystal Waters community, where he works as an astrologer and Feng Shui practitioner and writing for various magazines and newspapers. He organises the 2 day Crystal Waters Astrology Conference each year in October.

Feng Shui for Modern Living

subtle energies affect our lives
Richard Giles takes a brief look at Feng Shui, a time-honoured method of harmonising the features of the landscape and the environment. The ancient Chinese art of Feng Shui is not just some dusty remnant of the past, but is widely employed today in Chinese communities throughout the world. It is also becoming increasingly popular in the West, as we become more aware of how subtle energies can affect our lives, our state of mind and our prosperity. The phrase Feng Shui translates literally as "wind" and "water". These two elements summarise the common components that make up any landscape. Feng Shui is a Chinese-derived system for measuring the influences of land features, water courses and the built environment. Its value is in offering guidelines for learning to live in harmony with the surrounding environment and for appreciating and harmonising yourself and family to your own household and property. Approximately eleven hundred years ago (9th century AD) two great Chinese scholars wrote down the first systematised approach to working with the scenic and landscape features of the environment. This became the standard text on Form School, literally the Land Forms School. A hundred years later the principles of the Compass School were laid down, i.e., using compass direction to work with structures and land. A simple way to begin working with your own living situation is to look at your home or business and learn about how the different sectors of the house relate to parts of your life. Feng Shui teaches that the house reflects the owners and the owners reflect in the house. Success, failure, illness, career direction and much more in life can be read from the layout of the place where you live. Amazing?

Feng Shui is more than Geomancy

Feng Shui is often referred to as geomancy, but in fact the Chinese approach embraces more than just western geomancy, which is the business of dowsing land forms and energies. Feng Shui contains this and more. It isn't just mirrors and wind chimes, which can be used to help balance inauspicious energies. It's a total system of numbers and form, integrating the person with the home and landscape. A skilled practitioner can come into your home or business and advise you on layout, colours and form of the building, to help you increase family harmony, improve your health and expand wealth. A respectable Feng Shui expert will use a compass, do the numbers on your house and compare them to your birth date numbers before making recommendations. Why not try it sometime soon?