Navaratna

This beautiful assortment of precious gems is more than just a pretty ornament, with a considerable significance in religion, mythology and of course, the science of astrology.

What is a Navaratna?
Navartna is a Sanskrit word which means nine gems or 'ratnas'. It is not merely a mixed bag, but a select set of precious gems believed to have magnanimous powers.

Astrologically, it is believed that a person's life on Earth is ruled by the 'navagrahas'; or the nine planets. Synonymous to these are the nava-ratnas, which can help alter our physical and emotional state to balance the planetary motions.

So which are the precious stones that qualify to be the navaratnas?
Quoting from 'Brihat Jatak', a writing in Sanskrit and the well known 'Mani Mala by S.M.Tagore, the stones are to be used as briefed.

• The first is the Ruby, also known as 'Maanikyam' which stands for the Sun (Taraney).
• It is followed by Sea Pearl, mentioned as 'Muktaphalam' which symbolises the moon or Chandra.
• Vidrumam or Red Coral is the stone for Mars, the Maaheya.
• Brihaspati or Jupiter is signified by the precious tone Yellow Sapphire.
• Venus, the feminine planet or Shukra, is idolised through Diamond or Vajram.
• Blue Sapphire or Nilam is the representative of Shani(Saturn).
• The eighth gem is Gomeda or Hessonite, for the ascending lunar position or Rahu.
• The descending lunar position of Ketu is represented by Cat's Eye to complete the assemblage.

Quality:
This is of utmost importance. Flawed quality gems can disrupt the flow of energy and counteract the effects gained by the Navaratna. The gems should be devoid of flaws and should radiate their lustre from within.

Hence no fissures, cracks, rough edges or stones of low clarity can be used. Thus it is always preferable to go for smaller stones, which have lower chances of flaws. Also, only naturally made stones are to be crafted with, artificially synthesised gems are not an option.

The configuration to follow:
As with the kind of stones and their quality, which has to be the highest and flawless, the stones' arrangement is also fundamental. It is relative to the position of the Sun and the nine planets. The most critical element; the Ruby attributed to the Sun, has to remain at the centre. No other element can be placed at the centre. The rest of the gems follow suit in the order given. Starting with the Diamond at the zenith, Pearl, Coral, Hessonite, Blue Sapphire(bottom), Cat's eye, Yellow Sapphire, and finally Emerald complete a full circle. This is recited in the clockwise direction.

The stones have to be set on pure elements like gold or silver, to retain their energies. Avoid combining other alloys along with the Navratna or placing them in the vicinity of other factors.The ornament has to be cleansed before wearing. Unlike wearing a single gem, navaratna combines the goodness of nine precious gems.

Navaratna jewellery
When it comes to Navaratna, the first item of jewellery that comes to mind is the Navratna ring, a staple seen worn by a lot of men. The form of necklaces, earrings, bracelets, bangles and even armbands trinkets too.

• Ring
  The Navaratna ring is a very sturdy one as it consists of 9 stones. It comes in designs for both men and women. The men's ring is a thick gold band with a solid gold face onto which the gems are fixed. The setting is made secure so that the gems do not pop out. Make sure that the order is maintained in the arrangement.

  The ladies' ring is more petite; a simple gold structure where the stones are clustered more closely. These designs can be customised to a floral shape or with hexagonal wedges onto which each stone can be fixed tight. Oval and round shapes are also popular, although the square shape is more robust. It is best to opt for rings that have the stones set with pincers rather than ones where the stones are simply glued on. This will avoid the gems getting lost or damaged. Rings are the best option for everyday use to ensure constant blessings.

• Pendant
  Pretty Navratna pendants come in all shapes and sizes, each better than the one before. The classic flower Navaratna pendant makes for a cute multi- coloured ornament. The Navaratna setting with a central 'Om' looks very traditional and appealing.Pendants can range from small ones in simple settings to elaborate pendants with temple engravings and enamel inlays that strengthen your body and mind and add a trendy statement. Chandbali styles and the south Indian styles with a coin centrepiece are out of the ordinary, but still, incorporate a mix of tradition.

• Necklace
  Colourful and flashy necklaces are indeed in fashion this year. The clothes are becoming paler and simpler, with people opting for pure cotton, linens and jute for everyday wear both in sarees and kurtas. These dull or neutral- coloured fabrics can be made the prettiest by adding a statement Navaratna necklace. From temple style, huge pendants encrusted with a number of these stones, to simple chokers lined with precious gems and enhanced with pearl trims are treasured jewellery.

  Navartna designs are being incorporated into many traditional styles like Kundan, Temple jewellery, Meenakari artwork and Polki. Navaratna are reminders of cardinal gems, for their beauty and subdued grace.

  Simple Navaratna rounded stones, strung on a chain are also a fun piece of jewellery which youngsters are sure to love.

  Three-layered Navaratna necklaces with elaborately worked uncut diamonds and studded with the occasional nine gems are a wedding favourite.

• Bangles
  Navaratna kadas are super stunning and supreme. The array of gems in a fusion of colours is all you need to steal hearts. Just a pair of bangles on each hand can work wonders when worn with silk saris for simple occasions. Navaratna kada, the bold multi-layered gemstone fiesta is a single bangle that you can wear at your wedding to ensure blessings and happiness throughout the auspicious ceremony.

  Bracelets are also a hot favourite in twisting and twirling designs with the gem setting. Spaced gems with gold accents peaking through look especially flattering on the Indian skin tone. Kundan Navaratna bangles are also huge and go very well with the rest of your accessories.

• Earrings
  Studs affixed with these luscious gems are trendy and are easy to carry. They also come in hoops, jhumkas and danglers. Navratna jhumkas are an item of brilliance, fully encrusted with stones right from the stud, up till the fanning umbrella and finished with gold or pearl borders. Stylish ladies have the choice of long dangling Navaratna earrings both in simple and elegant designs. Buy your Navaratna earrings to be paired with your coloured necklaces to complete the look.