The Pushya Nakshatra, a lunar constellation in Vedic astrology, is associated with specific gemstones believed to bestow benefits upon those born under its influence. Primarily, the blue sapphire – known as Neelam in several Indian languages – is identified as the birthstone for this Nakshatra. However, the pearl is also cited as a beneficial stone. This article will explore the significance of these gemstones in relation to the Pushya Nakshatra, drawing upon traditional beliefs regarding their properties and recommended usage.
Historical and Astrological Significance
The association between gemstones and Nakshatras is deeply rooted in Hindu astrology and Vedic traditions. These connections are not based on gemological properties in the modern scientific sense, but rather on the perceived energetic and spiritual influences of the stones, aligned with the ruling deities and characteristics of each Nakshatra. The Pushya Nakshatra is ruled by Saturn (Shani), and the blue sapphire is considered a stone that can mitigate the negative effects of Saturn while amplifying its positive energies.
The practice of wearing gemstones based on Nakshatra is a longstanding tradition, intended to improve various aspects of life, including career, health, and spiritual well-being. Sources indicate that wearing the appropriate gemstone can bring prosperity, mental strength, and peace to individuals born under the Pushya Nakshatra. The belief extends to attaining name, fame, and luxury through the stone’s influence.
Gemological Properties of Blue Sapphire and Pearl
While the provided sources do not detail the gemological properties of blue sapphire or pearl, it is important to note their characteristics based on established gemological knowledge. Blue sapphire, a variety of the mineral corundum, is renowned for its exceptional hardness – ranking 9 on the Mohs scale – and durability. Its chemical formula is Al2O3. Sapphires exhibit a wide range of blue hues, from pale sky blue to deep, velvety indigo. Clarity can vary, and inclusions are common.
Pearls, in contrast, are organic gemstones formed within oysters and other mollusks. They are composed of calcium carbonate in crystalline form, arranged in concentric layers. Unlike sapphires, pearls are relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 2.5 to 4.5, and require careful handling. Their luster, known as orient, is a key factor in determining their quality. Pearls come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, including white, cream, pink, and black.
The Blue Sapphire (Neelam) for Pushya Nakshatra
The primary gemstone recommended for those born under the Pushya Nakshatra is the blue sapphire. It is believed to protect against the adverse effects of Saturn and harness its positive energies. Specifically, wearing the stone is thought to improve career prospects, enhance health, and provide mental fortitude. The sources suggest that the blue sapphire bestows peace and prosperity upon the wearer, and can even foster spiritual inclination.
The sources do not provide specific guidance on the quality or type of blue sapphire, but other traditional texts suggest that a well-colored, clear stone is preferable. The weight of the stone is also considered important, with a minimum weight of 1 rattika (approximately 0.9 carats) being recommended in some traditions.
The Pearl as an Alternative Stone
Alongside the blue sapphire, the pearl is presented as an alternative gemstone for individuals born under the Pushya Nakshatra. While the blue sapphire is the primary recommendation, the pearl offers a complementary benefit. The sources indicate that wearing a pearl alongside the blue sapphire can also yield health and financial benefits.
The pearl’s association with the Pushya Nakshatra may stem from its calming and soothing properties, which can balance the more intense energies of Saturn. Pearls are often associated with purity, innocence, and emotional balance in various cultures.
Rituals and Recommendations for Wearing Gemstones
The sources outline specific rituals and guidelines for wearing gemstones to maximize their beneficial effects. These practices emphasize the importance of timing and preparation.
The recommended time to purchase a diamond (the rituals for which are also detailed in the sources, and may be applicable to other gemstones by extension) is on a Friday during the Shukla Paksha – the ascending moon cycle. The Nakshatra at the time of purchase is also considered, with Bharani, Purva Phalguni, and Purvakshad being favorable.
Before wearing the gemstone, it should be purified through immersion in raw cow’s milk and then washed with water from the Ganges River (or water kept in a copper pot overnight). The ring setting should be in silver, white gold, or platinum, with the stone mounted in a way that it directly touches the skin. A Venus Yantra (a numerical diagram) should be drawn on a white cloth with rice paste or saffron, and the ring placed upon it while chanting a specific mantra 108 times. The mantras provided are “Aum Shum Shukraye Namah Aum” or Sri Suktam and Lakshmi Suktam. The ritual should be performed facing East or South East on a white asana (mat).
Gemstones and Other Nakshatras
The sources also briefly mention gemstones associated with other Nakshatras, providing a broader context for this practice. For example, Ashlesha Nakshatra is linked to pearls and emeralds, while Magha Nakshatra benefits from ruby and cat’s eye gemstones. This demonstrates the individualized approach to gemstone selection based on astrological birth charts. Other Nakshatras and their associated stones include:
- Bharani: Diamond or Opal and Coral
- Krittika: Ruby and Coral (with Diamond or Opal for those born in a specific phase)
- Rohini: Diamond or Opal and Pearl
- Mrigashira: Coral and Diamond or Opal (with White Coral and Emerald for those born in a specific phase)
- Ardra: Emeralds and Onyx
- Punarvasu: Emerald and Yellow Sapphire (with Topaz and Pearl for those born in a specific phase)
- Hasta: Emeralds and Pearl
- Chitra: Coral and Emerald (with White Coral, Diamond, or Opal for those born in a specific phase)
- Swati: Onyx and Diamond or Opal
- Vishakha: Yellow Sapphire and Opal (with Topaz for those born in a specific phase)
- Anuradha: Blue Sapphire and Coral
- Jyeshtha: Coral or Emerald
- Moola: Topaz and Cat’s Eye
- Purvashadha: Diamond and Ruby
- Uttarasadha: Topaz and Ruby (with Ruby and Sapphire for those born in a specific phase)
- Shravana: Pearl and Sapphire
- Dhanishtha: Red Coral and Sapphire
- Shatbhisha: Pearl and Sapphire
- Purva Bhadrapada: Topaz and Yellow Sapphire (with Coral and Topaz for those born in a specific phase)
- Uttara Bhadrapada: Topaz, Blue Sapphire
- Revati: Emerald and Topaz
Conclusion
The blue sapphire, and to a lesser extent the pearl, hold significant importance for individuals born under the Pushya Nakshatra, according to traditional Vedic astrology. These gemstones are believed to offer protection from negative influences, enhance career prospects, improve health, and foster spiritual growth. The sources emphasize the importance of adhering to specific rituals and guidelines when selecting and wearing these stones to maximize their benefits. While the provided materials focus on astrological beliefs rather than gemological properties, they offer a valuable insight into the cultural and spiritual significance of gemstones within the context of the Pushya Nakshatra.