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More Myths Connected With Popular Gemstones by Ron Peterson

People have been wearing gems and gemstones for thousands of years, and these gemstones are usually associated with many widely held beliefs and with folkloric knowledge. Let's take a look at some of the most popular gemstones and see what beliefs they are associated with.

Coral

This gem is thought to protect it's wearer against magic spells and people have been wearing coral jewelry in places where the belief in magic and magic spells are widespread. Some people also believe that wearing coral is a cure for madness and others believe that the gem gives wisdom to the person who is adorned with it. In many cultures, coral gems are given to children as gift for their protection.

Garnets

North American Indians used red garnets at bullets and believed that they would seek blood and inflict a deadlier wound. Christians believed garnets symbolized Christ's sacrifice while Islamic adherents believed that the gem illuminated the fourth heaven. Muslims also believed that garnets illuminated the fourth heaven. Others believe that the gem has a therapeutic effect and it is thought to stop bleeding, cure inflammatory diseases, and smooth discord.

Lolite

The gem's name is derived from the Greek word meaning violet and it is known as the gemstone of clear vision. It is believed to have the power to guide lost sailors to the brilliance of the sun in order to find their way home.

Moonstone
According to Hindu legend, moonstone is formed from moonbeams. There is a common belief that if you held one in your mouth during a Full Moon, you could see your future. In India the moonstone is known as a sacred stone and it is believed to bring good fortune. The gem is also a highly prized gift for lovers as it is said to arouse tender passion.

Lapis Lazuli

This gemstone is considered to be an emblem of chastity and some believe that the gem blocks the wiles of the devil and ensures help of the angels. It is also thought that wearing Lapis Lazuli will calm the wearer and some people use it as a tonic for melancholy and fever. It is sometimes put in embalmed bodies to represent the heart that was removed.

Opal

The opal was once believed to be a symbol, of faithfulness and confidence. Some said that it had magical powers because of its play of colors. Others say that the gem can strengthen eyesight, protect against contagious diseases, ease sadness, and turn pale in the presence of poison. In general, the opal symbolizes magic, love, hope, happiness, and truth.

Onyx

Onyx is linked to lovers and is said to cause discord and help to cool the fires of passion. It was once believed to cause bad dreams and sad thoughts. On the other hand, the ancient Romans wore it believing it gave them courage.

Pearl

In the 13th century pearl were said to cure mental illness and heartbreak and they were once thought to be the tears of God. Through the ages pearls were considered to be an emblem of modesty, chastity, and purity and were believed to symbolize love, success and happiness.

Peridot

This gemstone is known to be dull by day but glowing at night and this quality helped prospectors mark them for digging the next day. The gem is widely thought to help dreams become a reality and is often given as a symbol of fame, dignity, and protection.

Tiger's Eye

This gem is commonly used to focus the mind and it is also believed to offer protection during travel, and is considered the most popular chatoyant gem.

Topaz

In the15th century topaz was used to detect poisons, calm anger, and break spells. Christians believed it stood for uprightness. Hindus wore topaz above the heart to prevent thirst and assured Long Life, beauty, and intelligence. The Greeks also felt it gave strength and used as an amulet against harm.

Tourmalines

Tourmalines were once believed to protect the wearer against bad decisions, many dangers, and misfortunes. It was also said to be a gem that would help to n to attract friends and lovers. According to some beliefs the pink tourmaline promotes female balance and protection while the green tourmaline promotes the same qualities among men.

Turquoise

Turquoise has been associated with horses for centuries. These gems were believed to protect any rider who wore the stone from injury. In the 17th century it was only considered effective if it were received as a gift. Southwest Native Americans saw stone to be sacred. Tibetans today consider the stone to bring good fortune, health, and to serve as a protector against the evil eye.

These are some of the most widely held beliefs about the gems and gemstones that have been worn by humans for the past thousands of years.

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