A Beginner’s Guide to Gemstones & Astrology
If religion is the study of spirituality and its effect on humanity, astrology is the study of cosmic forces and how it affects our day-to-day life.
Believe it or not, the history of astrology is connected to the spirituality and meaning of many of the gemstones found in Mexican jewelry! Read on to learn about astrology, zodiac signs, and how gemstones are related to both.
A brief overview of astrology
In astrology, the position of the sun, planets, moons, and distant stars are said to shape everything about someone. This includes their personality, health, fortune, relationships, and much more.
Most people have heard of zodiac signs, which are a part of sun-sign astrology. This is a newer form of astrology that is easy to understand and simple to learn. For this reason, this style of astrology has once again become popular.
History of astrology
While sun-sign astrology is a newer form of astrology, as a concept astrology has been around for millennia. In fact, since people have been looking up at the stars we’ve been connecting what is happening in the vast expanse of the cosmos to what is happening in our day-to-day lives.
Civilizations that have been connected to the practice of astrology include the Mesopotamians beginning in 3000 BC, the Greeks in the 6th century BC, and India just a millennium ago.
Today, astrology is gaining in popularity as a way for a whole new generation to connect with the cosmos and their personal history.
The 12 different zodiac signs
In astrology, you’re assigned a zodiac sign based on your birthday. These signs were determined by which constellation the sun was a part of on the day of your birth.
Along with a zodiac sign, each time period has a connected planet and a host of other information, including associated gemstones. All gemstones have spiritual and historical meanings that match many of the traits found in astrological signs. Look out below for the gemstones that are known to be associated with each astrological sign!
Aquarius
Birthdates: January 21 – February 19
Associated gemstones: Amethyst, Jasper, Garnet
Ruling planet: Uranus and Jupiter
Known for their free-spirit and creative approach to life, Aquarians can be both shy and quiet while retaining eccentricity and energy. While generally thought of as open and kind people, they are also known to be stubborn and distant when their mood shifts.
Pisces
Birthdates: February 19 – March 20
Associated gemstones: Turquoise, Quartz
Ruling planet: Neptune and Jupiter
Very friendly and open, Pisces are always willing to lend a helping hand without expecting much in return. They are deeply compassionate and gentle, and are known for their love of dance.
Aries
Birthdates: March 21 – April 19
Associated gemstones: Red Jasper, Diamond
Ruling planet: Mars
Highly competitive, Aries need to win and take action to feel satisfied. They are known for taking a direct approach to communication and having a strong personality.
Taurus
Birthdates: April 20 – May 20
Associated gemstones: Emerald, Sapphire, Rose Quartz
Ruling planet: Venus
Known for being down-to-earth yet passionate, Taureans are known as reliable and practical. This can lead to a more grounded approach to life that avoids intense and complex situations.
Gemini
Birthdates: May 21 – June 20
Associated gemstones: Agate, Aquamarine, Citrine
Ruling planet: Mercury
Geminis oscillate between the 2 sides of their personality quickly. On the one hand sociable and communicative, on the other serious and thoughtful. They’re known for being fascinated with the world and very curious.
Cancer
Birthdates: June 21 – July 22
Associated gemstones: Opal, Pearl
Ruling planet: Moon
Extremely sentimental, Cancers place a high value on deep and emotionally connected relationships. While it can be difficult to penetrate their tough exterior, they are as loyal as they come once you do.
Leo
Birthdates: July 23 – August 22
Associated gemstones: Amber, Black Onyx
Ruling planet: Sun
Natural leaders and filled with energy, Leos are known for taking in the positivity that is life and emitting their own positive energy. While they can be light-hearted, they are known as headstrong and fiery.
Virgo
Birthdates: August 23 – September 22
Associated gemstones: Blue Sapphire, Carnelian
Ruling planet: Mercury
Detail-oriented and hardworking, Virgos take a methodical approach to life. Often, this approach to life leaves a tender heart who may have a hard time connecting with others at first, but value nature and time to themselves.
Libra
Birthdates: September 23 – October 22
Associated gemstones: Opal, Sapphire
Ruling planet: Venus
With a strong focus on balance and harmony, Libras are known as peaceful and fair. They also love partnerships of all types and enjoy experiencing the world with others. They’re known for not being argumentative, and resisting and avoiding conflict.
Scorpio
Birthdates: October 23 – November 21
Associated gemstones: Obsidian, Agate
Ruling planet: Pluto and Mars
One of the most passionate and assertive signs, Scorpios are determined and decisive in their decisions. They exhume a strong sense of justice and are great leaders. They can at times be a little distrusting, but are themselves extremely trustworthy.
Sagittarius
Birthdates: November 22 – December 21
Associated gemstones: Turquoise, Amethyst
Ruling planet: Jupiter
Known for their love of travel, Sagittarians are naturally curious and love adventure. They are known as optimistic and enthusiastic people. They are independent, but have a hard time holding in their emotions and thoughts.
Capricorn
Birthdates: December 22 – January 19
Associated gemstones: Agate, Garnet
Ruling planet: Saturn
Able to control themselves and their emotions, Capricorns are realistic (and unafraid to bring you down to reality). Their practical and responsible personality lends itself to leadership, and they’re known for keeping stability in their lives.
Gemstones and Vedic astrology
Particularly in the Vedic tradition of astrology (originally practiced in India), many people believe that gemstones are able to direct the power of planetary influences to the wearer of the stones.
In this tradition, by wearing a particular gemstone, you can harness the power of the planetary influence to bring yourself good fortune.
Planetary influence, associated gemstones, and what they are known for providing the wearer:
- Sun: Ruby — Good health and keeping away serious disease.
- Moon: Pearls — Self-confidence and greater control of mind.
- Mars: Coral — Healing abilities for everything from anemia to allergies.
- Mercury: Emerald — Great control over their body, and is recommended for business people, scientists, and creatives.
- Jupiter: Yellow sapphire — Increased ability in areas such as yoga, religious preaching, spirituality, and the occult.
- Venus: Diamond — Wisdom and maturity in their life, and for others to have confidence in them.
- Saturn: Blue sapphire — Moral and mental strength, as well as wealth and material success.
Get in touch with your astrological side
Browse our selection of gemstone jewelry to find a piece that connects with your style and zodiac sign! Let us know if you have any questions or if you want help finding an item that matches you and your personality!
