Navaratna Nine Gems in Hindu Astrology

Navaratna is a Sanskrit word which means “nine gems” and is related to the nine planets or Navagraha in Hindu Vedic astrology. The word Nava means ‘nine’ and Ratna means ‘gem’. Each gemstone is related to one Graha among the Navgrahas. Navaratna gemstones are considered auspicious and believed to give good health, prosperity, happiness and peace of mind to those who wear it. It protects against negative energies or malefic effects of planets and strengthens the positive influences of the gems.

Navaratna Gemstones and their Planetary Representations

1) Ruby – Manikkam or Manek – Lord Surya or Sun
2) Pearl – Moti – Lord Chandra or Moon
3) Red Coral – Moonga – Lord Kuja or Planet Mars
4) Emerald – Marakatam or Panna – Lord Budh or Mercury
5) Yellow Sapphire – Pukharaj – Jupiter or Lord Guru
6) Diamond – Heera or Vairam – Venus or Lord Shukra
7) Blue Sapphire – Neelam – Saturn or Lord Shani
8) Hessonite – Gomedh – Lord Rahu
9) Cat’s Eye – Vaiduryam – Lord Ketu

Diamond, ruby, emerald, blue sapphire and pearl are named as Maharatnas as they are considered to be superior to other gem. Usually people wear Navaratnas in the form of rings. The positions of planets keep on changing, accordingly the dasa and mahadasas of the planets. Astrology says that the malefic effects of Planets can be balanced by the effect of beneficial planets when one wears the Navaratna Jewelry.

Navaratna Ornaments

Navaratna Jewelry or Navagraha Jewellery is becoming more and more popular nowadays due to its astrological benefits. Some popular Navaratna ornaments include Navaratna necklaces, Navratna rings, bracelets, anklets, pendants, bangles, armlets and other trinkets. It is necessary that the Navaratna Jewellery should be made of gold or silver. Sri Garuda Purana states that before buying Navratnas or any gem, one has to ensure that the gem stones used in the ornament are good. Also be sure that the ornaments should be worn after cleaning and charging with Navagraha mantras. It is advisable to wear the jewelry before sunrise or any auspicious day at a temple.

Navaratna in Other Languages 

Navaratna is known as Navarathnam in Malayalam, Navarathinam in Tamil, Navarathnalu in Telugu, Nopparatana in standard Thai, Nopparat in Rajasaap (Royal Thai), and Navaratne in Singhalese.