Planets in signs and houses The basics of Ayurveda 2

The basics of Ayurveda

In Ayurveda different people with the same disease sometimes receive different diet and herb plans. The constitution, the imbalance, and the various nuances of the development of the disease in each individual must be studied to determine the nature of the imbalance whether Vata, Pitta, or Kapha for that disease.
For example: Two people have a history of weak lungs and chronic coughing. One is dominated by a Vata constitution with a Vata imbalance. The other is dominated by a Kapha constitution with a Kapha imbalance. The Vata has a tendency towards a dry hacking cough in which no mucus or phlegm is present or being expelled. The Kapha has a less frequent, but heavy wet cough which expels large quantities of mucus and phlegm.
For the Kapha dry, hot, spicy herbs and foods are what is necessary for burning up and drying up the excess mucus. Dry ginger, and long pepper are useful while all dairy, fruit juices, and cold food in general are to be avoided. But for the dry Vata cough, hot milk with turmeric is a great healer to soothe and calm the cough, while disinfecting and moistening the dry, hot lungs. Fresh curd with unleavened whole wheat bread (chapatis) and cooling fruit juices are also useful. So a cough is not just a cough according to ayurveda. But according to the constitution and imbalance, “One man’s food is another man’s poison”.
Unfortunately people will give up trying holistic health practices because good food was given to the wrong person. The secret of understanding the dynamics of food and which food is for whom is in the taste, therefore, the appropriate tastes with their elements will correct the imbalance of elements in one’s constitution if taken correctly.


The proof is in the tasting.
There are six tastes according to Ayurveda: Sweet, Sour, Salty, Pungent, Bitter, and Astringent. Each is comprised of two elements:
Sweet (earth and water) examples: wheat, sugar, milk, rice, dates;
Sour (earth and fire) examples: yogurt, lemon, tamarind;
Salty (water and fire) examples: sea salt, rock salt, kelp;
Pungent (fire and air) examples: onion, radish, ginger, chilly;
Bitter (air and ether) examples: dandelion root, rhubarb root, bitter melon;
Astringent (air and earth) examples: plantain, pomegranate, apples;
There are two other considerations in Ayurveda. First, whether a foods action is heating or cooling. The taste sweet, bitter, and astringent are cooling. Sour, salty, and pungent are all heating. The second is the post-digestive effect or how the foods “taste” to the tissues during and after assimilation. Sweet and salty are sweet in post-digestive effect. Sour is sour, and pungent, bitter, and astringent are pungent.
Taste, action, and post-digestive effect are known is Sanskrit as rasa, virya, and vipack respectively in Ayurveda. They are the keys to understanding food and herbs. With this knowledge, one can unlock the mysteries of the energetic dynamics of food and be able to make the right choices for oneself.


Raw Foods According To Ayurveda
Raw foods and juices are magnificent in that they are cleansing and energizing. Sprouts are especially wonderful because they contain large amounts of enzymes and nourishment which help with digestion and assimilation of nutrients. Some of the spicier sprouts help to destroy and eliminate toxins in the system known as ama in Ayurveda.
Fenugreek sprouts can even help in cases of seminal debility. But in general, raw food is very cold and hard to digest in the Vedic sense as it releases its Prana or nourishing life giving energy in the upper portion of the body between the mouth and the stomach. This gives quick, short-term energy, but not long-term tissue building nourishment. This is good for pittas, and some raw foods are good for kaphas, but this is not very good for vatas.


Cooking Foods According to Ayurveda
Well cooked grains, beans, and vegetables release their Prana in the colon. This provides long-term tissue building energy. However, these energies cannot be released from complex carbohydrates without the assistance of enzymes. A Clean intestinal tract is also essential for proper absorption.This coincides with two of the modern holistic health theories of colon cleansing and enzyme consumption. But the Ayurvedic approach again is practical and individualized. Which herbs for which constitution will produce the best colon cleansing varies. Therefore, some people find some of the standard colon cleansing products ineffectual or difficult for their bodies to tolerate.
Triphala (“the three fruits”), used in Ayurveda, is one of the best colon cleansers because it strengthens and tones the muscle action of the colon. It does not cause laxative dependency by doing the work for the colon. Similarly, the consumption of enzyme tablets will cause the digestive organs natural ability to produce enzymes for digestion to become suppressed and lazy and possibly lose their ability to function all together. Ayurvedic cooking uses certain herbs and spices to help stimulate the body to produce its own digestive enzymes.


The Secret of spices in Ayurvedic Cooking
Spices used in small to moderate proportions according to the food being prepared and the person’s constitution will stimulate all the digestive organs to produce the enzymes required for total absorption and assimilation. This lets your organs do their work through nourishment without “putting them in a wheelchair” while the chemicals do it. Thus cooked food and spices are better for the poor digestion of kaphas and vatas. Pittas should use only mild spicing, as their “fire of digestion” is generally strong.


Consciousness and Food
This is probably the most important aspect of Ayurveda: Your state of consciousness when you eat and when you cook. One of the great sages of India, Rupa Goswami wrote: “If you eat food prepared by the wicked, you will become wicked”. If the person who is cooking has fears, insecurities, anger, jealousy, greed or any of many emotions we experience everyday, the chef will infuse that preparation with that emotion.
This is important to remember in eating – at home or away – that the consciousness of the cook is in the food. And the consciousness of the animal or vegetable one is eating is in there as well. So in Ayurveda, food preparation is considered a sacred act. Animal food is generally not recommended because of the extreme pain, agony, suffering, fear, anger and terror the animal experiences has gone into the food. Add the highly toxic chemical contamination of modern factory farming like hormones, steroids, antibiotics, pesticides, etc., and you have a prescription for death not life.
Vegetables have life also and they also feel pain and discomfort at being eaten. The Vedas teach that each living being, from the king to the bacteria, has a soul and is therefore sacred. The kitchen is considered the extension of the altar in Vedic culture. In early Christianity, the people would bring their crops and lay them at the altar for sacrifice and blessing.
This was done much earlier in Ancient India, only there everything was prepared in the kitchen according to the principles of taste and elemental energetics and then offered with great devotion to the deities.
You can do this at home by preparing your food with love according to Ayurvedic energetic principles and offering prayers and meditations of thanks and love to God. You will transform food into prasad or God’s mercy. Thus you will raise your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health to the highest possible levels. There is no greater nourishment than this in all the world.

Planets in signs and houses The basics of Ayurveda 1

The basics of Ayurveda 

The following are some of the principle theories and practices of Ayurveda.

Ayurveda is divided into eight parts. Hence it is also known as Ashtanga ayurveda.

These are as follows: Kaya, Bal, Graha, Urdhwa, Shalya, Dhanstra, Jara, Vrishan.

1. Kaya: The part of ayurveda which mainly related with diseases related with body, related with digestion.
2.Bala: It is related with the paediatric age group. It is the treatment for the proper growth and diseases of children.

3.Graha: It deals with stars and planets and other mental disorders.

4.Urdhwa: The diseases of upper part of the body above the neck. This part is also known as Shalakyatantra. In this part, disorders of ear, nose, throat, eyes, and oral cavity are considered.

5.Shalya: This is surgical branch of Ayurveda which is well developed by Sushrut.

6.Dhanstra: It is related to the tooth where animal bites, poisoning and its treatment is considered.

7.Jara: It is the branch related to geriatrics. It deals with treatment to avoid old age.

8.Vrushya: It is the branch related with healthy sex life and treatment related to complaints about intercourse etc.

Prakruti: At the time of conception, the particular dosha dominating is the prakruti of that individual.According to individuals prakruti, he or she is prone to some types of disease. To cure those disorders, some hints related to day to day life “dincharya” and seasonal behavior “Rutucharya”are given.

Panch Mahabhoot Siddhanta: The whole body is considered to be made up of five basic elements such as Prithvi, Aap, Tepa, Vayu and Aakash .When there is disturbance in dosha-dhatu-mala, the individual suffers from disease. Hence they should be treated accordingly.

The treatment part includes Shodhan and Shaman. In Shodhan, the doshas are expelled out of the body with the help of medicines and in Shaman , doshas are suppressed in the body. Shodhan includes five ways of cleansing named as Pancha karma. It includes;

Vaman: emesis,

Virechan: purgation,

Nasya: medicine administered by nostrils.

Raktamokshan: letting out blood,

Basti: medicated material administered through anus.

Prakruti – The Unique Genetic Code of an Individual

Everyone knows that there are no two fingerprints alike. No two voice modulations and no two genetic codes are exactly alike. What makes anyone think we all have the same liver, lungs, kidneys, or anything else the same as the next person. Therefore to propose that we all eat the same foods, take the same drugs when we are ill, or perform the same exercise is more than ludicrous. It is unscientific! Ayurveda uses a system of historical analysis and physical examination done almost entirely by observation (with the exception of pulse reading), to ascertain one’s original nature and current imbalances.

A diet and health plan are given to the individual according to the needs to correct the imbalance. The basis for all other concepts in Ayurveda is Sankhya (the analytical study of the elements that comprise the universe). Although the modern physicist would delineate well over one hundred elements, Sankhya states there are twenty-four, of which five are the foundation of the gross world: Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Ether.
These five elements, when joined in different combinations, make up the three “doshas” or “biological modes” which are the “Prakruti” or nature of an individual and the nature of all things.

The combination of air and ether gives us Vata or the Kinetic Biological Mode. Vata is that which is electric in the body and causes all movement in and out of the system (breathing, urination, defecation, menstruation, etc.)

The combination of fire and water gives us Pitta or the Transformative Biological Mode. Pitta is that which mutates or transforms the outside elements of the macrocosm into the inside elements of the body (the microcosm). Pitta governs the digestion of physical, mental, and emotional elements.

Finally, the combination of earth and water gives us Kapha or the Structive Biological mode. Kapha is that which makes for both lubrication (mucus, synovial fluid) and structure (bones, muscles, fat, joints, etc).

Generally speaking most people are a combination of two modes. One is the primary and the other is the secondary. But there are those who are purely dominated by one mode, and in rare cases, those who are a mixture of all three. This elemental theory broken down into divisions of modes identifies not only body types for humans, but also for animals, vegetables, plants, herbs, geographical locations, times of day, seasons of the years, and activities performed.

Everything in the universe is categorized by this system. Ascertaining one’s Prakruti (nature of constitution) and imbalances is the service rendered by the Ayurvedic analysis using the processes stated earlier. Then the Ayurvedic practitioner constructs a diet and recommends herbs which would be helpful to regain balance with one’s original nature.

Planets in signs and houses Zodiac signs & Ruling planet

Each sign is governed by a planet. Let us have a look at it:

Zodiac Sign	Sanskrit Name	Governing Planet
Aries	Mesha	Mars
Taurus	Vrishabha	Venus
Gemini	Mithun	Mercury
Cancer	Karka or Karkata	Moon
Leo	Simha	Sun
Virgo	Kanya	Mercury
Libra	Tula	Venus
Scorpio	Vrishchik	Mars
Sagittarius	Dhanu	Jupiter
Capricorn	Makar	Saturn
Aquarius	Kumbha	Saturn
Pisces	Meena	Jupiter

This is it for this week. In next part of the article, we will discuss the nature of zodiac sings and planets; and also how they can be used to make forecasts.

Planets in signs and houses Blood groups and mentalities

Blood may be in same color for all and contain similar Red Blood Cells and Haemoglobin but different blood groups decide our thinking.
Since all liquids on earth and in our bodies are controlled by planet moon in astrology and moon controls mind and thoughts, a study of blood groups is important.

TYPE O

You want to be a leader, and when you see something you want, you keep striving until you achieve your goal. You are a trend-setter, loyal, passionate, and self-confident. Your weaknesses include vanity and jealously and a tendency to be too competitive.

TYPE A

You like harmony, peace and organization. You work well with others, and are sensitive, patient and affectionate. Among your weaknesses are stubbornness and an inability to relax.

TYPE B

You’re a rugged individualist, who’s str aightforwa rd and likes to do things your own way. Creative and flexible, you adapt easily to any situation. But your insistence on being independent can sometimes go too far and become a weakness.

TYPE AB

Cool and controlled, you’re generally well liked and always put people at ease. You’re a natural entertainer who’s tactful and fair. But you’re standoffish, blunt, and have difficulty making decisions.

No matter what your blood groups is, donating blood is a good remedy for mars related problems.
If you have a relation between Mars and Moon in your horoscope, then definitely blood donation every 3 months will keep many issues under control.
So, donate and no matter what your group is, always B +VE

Planets in signs and houses Hasta Nakshatra born characteristics and features

Hasta 10-00′ to 23-20′ Virgo (Kanya Rasi)

Names start with: poo, sham, Naa, Taa

General Characteristics: Purity of thought and deed as well as self-control, active habits, full of resources.

Translation: The hand

Symbol: A hand – open hand blessing humanity.

Animal symbol: Female buffalo

Ruling planet: Moon
Nature: Deva (god-like)
Presiding deity: Savita – the sun god who imparts creative and transforming energy.

Male Natives born under Hasta Nakshatra

Physical features: The native is tall and stout. Mixed colour with short hands comparing to the body structure. There will be a scar mark on the upper right hand or beneath the shoulder.
Character and general events: The native will have a calm nature. There is a peculiarity while he is smiling i.e. his sweet smile has the magnetic power to attract others. This inherent quality produces a vibration on others and it becomes difficult to leave the native once such acquaintance takes place. He can easily get respect and honor from the public. He is always in readiness to help the needy for nothing in return. He does not like to deceive others even if it costs him his life. In spite of this good quality, the reward he gets in return is nothing but criticism and opposition. He does not believe in a posh living.

Unlike other Nakshatra born persons, the life of Hasta native is full of frequent ups and down. At one moment he rises to the top and another moment he falls to the bottom whether in profession al field or in the mental world. In other words, luck and unluck comes to them without intimation. Hence we cannot categorise him as a permanent poor or wealthy. When he enters in a particular field and starts gaining the object, reversal is already in store for him. While he tries to get out of such reversal with his own effort, helps comes to him from the unexpected quarters and he achieves medium success in the undertaking. It may appear that there is some hidden curse on the native as otherwise, the sincerity and hard work which he shows in every work, should have given him a wonderful boost.

While the native does not want to cause any trouble to others, once he is hurt, he will always be in search of revenge, but at the same time takes consolation in the feet of god by thinking that let god give him the punishment and he slowly withdraws from the scene of conflict.

Education, sources of earning/profession: In the work field, he keeps strict discipline. Normally employment in a subordinate level is not fit for him. Only very few cases where the Hasta native is working in a low level job has been found. Most of the cases either they are engaged in business or in a high position in the industries.

Hasta native even with a preliminary academic background will possess excellent all-round knowledge. He will show to the world that he is not being anybody on any matter. He is a good adviser as he has the capacity to intervene and settle various disputed matters. Lot of responsibilities will have to be undertaken by him before he can climb one step of ladder of success.

Period up to his 30th years of age will bring in unexpected circumstantial changes both in the family front as well as in the academic and professional or business field. Period between 30 to 42 years of his age will be his golden period, when the native can settle down in his life. If the native lives beyond 64 years of age, there will be remarkable accumulation of wealth and all-round success in the business field.

Family life: He is able to enjoy an idle married life, even though occasional friction as is expected in a family will definitely be there. His wife will be a homely lady with all good qualities expected from a house wife. One of the hidden factors noticed in the wife of a hasta native is that she may indulge in homo-sexual activities in her youth period.

Health: He is prone to have severe cough and cold, frequent emanation of water from the nose and clotting of such fluid, asthma or cynos.

Female Natives born under Hasta Nakshatra

Female natives born in Hasta Nakshatra also will enjoy more or less the same results as mentioned for a male native born in Hasta native. In addition, they will also enjoy the following results:

Physical features: Her eyes and ears will be extremely beautiful and entirely different from those born in other Nakshatras. A typical shoulder. Very attractive with soft body.

Character and general events: She will have the inherent shyness of a female sex. While she will respect the elders, she may not like to live like a slave. She will not hesitate to express her views openly. She is not bothered about the outcome of such expression. Hence she is subjected to enmity from her relatives. If she curbs the tendency of open expression of her views she can attain good amount of success in the family front and enjoy her life in full.

Education, sources of earning/profession: In most of the cases, hasta female is not employed mainly due to good financial stability of her parents as well as her husband. In some cases it has been noticed that hasta female, if born in a poor family is employed in the agricultural field and in the construction activities.

Family life: She can enjoy a happy married life. Her husband will be wealthy and loving. She can enjoy good benefit from her children. First will be a son and followed by two daughters.

Health: Her health will generally be good. However, she may have high blood pressure and twisting of veins, asthma in her old age.

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Positive Traits: Creative, pleasant, humorous, skilled in the arts, charming, practical, attractive, wealth late in life, many relationships, generous, unattached, intelligent, persuasive, cordial, weighs their words to avoid expressing anger, self-motivated, in control, focused on acquisition, good at defending and promoting their own interests, understands the value of social rituals and courtesies, skilled in providing service, thick-skinned, takes advantage of opportunities in new areas or in foreign lands, dexterous, determined, industrious worker, easily changes.

Negative Traits: Likes competition and conflicts, restless – want spiritual experiences, changeable, con artist, self interest, emotionally unsettled, need to control lower self, unabashed, mistrustful, overindulgence in pleasuring themselves, nasty, mechanical in dealing with those who provide them no advantage, abuse of drugs, controlling, alcohol, and/or food to cope, critical when under stress, suppressed, health issues.

Career Interests: Painters, artists, craftsmen, scholars, teachers, writers, sales, communications, pr, hospital and volunteer work, healers, travel industry, conference planners, astrologers, palm readers, advisers, ministers, authors, counselors, educators, priests, thieves, rouges.

Compatibility and Incompatibility :Bearing in mind the instinctive norms of compatibility, Hasta Nakshatra is most compatible to Swati Nakshatra on account of its phallic connection. While Hasta represents female buffalo, Swati is represented by a male buffalo.
Besides being compatible to Revati and Bharani Nakshatras, it is also compatible to Uttara Phalguniand Uttarabhadrapada Nakshatras.
Krittika and Pushyami Nakshatras are also compatible to it. This is because of buffaloe’s phallic compatibility to elephant, cow and sheep.
Taking into account the theory of obstruction, Hasta Nakshatra is not compatible to SatabhishaNakshatra.
Taking into account buffaloes’ spontaneous hostility to horse, both male and female stars represented by horse are not compatible to it. Besides Shatabhisha, Aswini is also incompatible to Hasta Nakshatra.

Planets in signs and houses Shri Krishna - Kundali

1. Rashi                                                2. Navmsa                                         Regarding the date of Sri Krishna, there is no doubt difference of opinion amongst historians who have been largely inspired and influenced by oriental scholars and their Indian followers. But if an unprejudiced study of the Puranas, Srimad Bhagavata and other records of Indian origin is made, interesting details regarding Krishna's birth date and time come to light. We may easily dismiss the findings of some of the modern scholars that Mahabharata took place near about 2000 B.C., that Bhagavadgita was composed in 1000 B. C. and that Krishna was a mythical person, based as such findings are on untrustworthy and one sided data and because of the fact that the great historical documents, viz., the Puranas are completely ignored. In Bhagavata, tenth skanda, third chapter, it is said that Krishna was born when the Moon was in the constellation of Prajapathi, i.e., Rohini. By a careful study of the 26th sloka of first chapter, fifth amsa of Vishnupurana, it can be construed that Krishna was born on the night of Krishnashtami (8th day of dark half) in the lunar month of Sravana. Information furnished in Harivanua (1 Part, 52nd chapter) is clear and to the point so far as the lunar day, month and time are concerned. It is said that Krishna was born on the 8th lunar day of the dark half of Sravana, in the constellation of Rohini at midnight. From Ashtamyam Sravanemase Krisknapakshe mahatithou; Rohinyamardharatre cha sudnmsa udayonmukhe Bhagavata, we can also glean (Skanda 11, Chapter VI) that Krishna lived for 125 years, Vishnupurana (Amsa 5, Chapter 37) corroborates the same in suggesting that Krishna lived for 125 years. If we again refer to Bhagavata (Skanda 11, Chapter 7) and understand the 2nd sloka clearly we can find that Kali entered (i.e. Kaliyuga began) immediately after Krishna shuffled off his mortal coil. That Kali entered on the day Krishna passed away and that Krishna was born in Yaduvamsa at the end of the Dwaparayuga of the 28th Mahayuga, *'. e., the Dwapara preceding the current Kaliyuga, becomes evident by a perusal of Vishnupurana (4th and 20th Chapters and V Amsa, 23rd Chapter). Thus by placing together details taken from the most important historical and cultuial documents of ancient India, viz., Srimad Bhagavata, Vishnupurana and Harivamsa, it may be clearly inferred that Sri Krishna was born at midnight, on the 8th lunar day of the cyclic year Srimukha, in the 126th year counted backwards from the date of commencement of Kaliyuga on 18-2-3102 B.C. corresponding to the 1st day of the lunar month Chaitra of the cyclic year Pramadhi. This corresponds to the midnight of 19th (20th) July 3228 B.C., and the above horoscope is cast for this date. In his Royal Horoscopes, Prof. B. Suryanarain Rao, by a careful study of the Bhagavata records, mentions that Krishna was born "in the Dwaparayuga after the lapse of 863874 years, 4 months and 22 days in the cyclic year Srimukha, on the 8ih day of the dark half of the lunar month of Sravana, when the constellation Rohini ruled, at about midnight". Prof. Rao's findings may be considered as correct. But the Chart or Kundali he gives showing Saturn in Aquarius, Jupiter and Mercury in Virgo, the Sun and Venus in Leo, the Moon and Lagna in Taurus, Mars in Scorpio and Rahu in Libra does not fit in with the birth data. Mr. Cyril Fagan, to whom I am much indebted for the immense trouble he has taken to calculate some of these ancient horoscopes, informs me that by making a thorough astronomical search from 4000 B.C. to 2000 B.C., i.e., for 2,000 years on either side of the traditional date of Kaliyuga he has been able to find that the position of the Sun, Jupiter and Saturn in Leo, Virgo and Aquarius respectively and Rahu in Libra could occur only in 3251 B.C., in which case, Krishna's birth should have occurred on 4-7-3251 B.C., and His death in February 3125 B C„ i.e., exactly 23 years before the beginning of Kaliyuga. These "justify" to some extent that Kaliyuga began "shortly after Krishna's death." On 4-7-3251 B C, the positions of all the planets will be as per the Kundali given by Prof. B. S. Rao, but Mercury will be in Leo and Mars in Aries. The term "shortly after" death, used by Prof. B. S. Rao, may mean a couple of days or a couple of months or even a couple of years after Krishna's death. But according to Matsya Purana (vide Adhyaya 271, slokas 51-52) the matter becomes quite clear when it says that the year and day on which Krishna passed away mark the commencement of Kaliyuga. Yasmin Krishna disam jatastasminneva (hi valsare); Tadahani pratipannam Kaliyugam pramanam tasyame srunu Without straining these authoritative quotations, we may safely assume that on the (traditional) day of Krishna's death, Kaliyuga commenced and that Krishna was born in the 126th year counted backwards from 3102 B.C. It occurs to me that the Kundali given by Prof. Rao was not probably verified as otherwise, he would have taken care to see that there was no inconsistency between the planetary positions and birth details.

Special Features.—The Lagna is Taurus or Vrishabha, a sign of Venus, and it is occupied by the Moon and aspected by Saturn making Sri Krishna extremely handsome.

The dominance of the influences of the Moon and Venus, with Saturn and Mars, made the Lord's appearance, wonderfully graceful. From classical texts we gather that Sri Krishna possessed a magnetic personality, crimson cheeks, 'coral lips', a fascinating face and a sky-blue complexion—features largely due to the delicate blending of the martian, saturnine, venusian and lunar features. Lagna lord Venus is in his own navamsa. Consequently, Krishna was a master of courtesy even to the "lowborn Chandalas", as the Bhagavata refers. His invincible prowess in the field of battle is brought out by the neecha-bhanga of the martial planet Mars in the 3rd or house of courage. It must be noted that he defeated mighty Sisupala and other kings and formidable foes by dint of courage, tact and resourcefulness.

The Moon, the planet of emotion, is exalted in Lagna, and unafflicted by Rahu conferring great serenity of mind, while Mercury the planet of intellect who owns the 2nd or house of speech is exalted in the 5th or house of intelligence. This is a unique combination denoting wonderful intelligence and extraordinary conversational ability. His was a giant intellect unequalled in analytic understanding. He passed through the virtues and deceptions of the thoughts of His day. He was superior to any thinker of His times. Krishna possessed an uncanny diplomacy and unbounded vision and this should be attributed to the ideal disposition of Mercury. Jupiter is in the 4th. Sri Krishna was a man of rich and responsive human sympathy but the Sun's association in his own place rendered Krishna a terror to the wicked and a friend to the wise.

The 10th lord aspects the Lagna, the Atmakaraka Sun and the planet of Dharma Jupiter, in their turn aspect the 10th. Consequently He possessed a passionate zeal to safeguard Dharma. Krishna's birth in prison is justified by the association of the lords of Lagna (Venus) and the 12th (Mars) with Rahu. Jupiter, lord of the 11th (elder brothers and sisters), has gained 8 navamsas and is in the 9th. He is aspected by Saturn in Rasi and has joined Rahu in navamsa. It must be noted that Krishna was the 8th issue, all the eider ones having been put to death by Kamsa. Due to the exaltation of Matrukaraka Moon and the situation of Pitrukaraka Sun in his own house with Jupiter, his parents were long-lived.

Both Kalatrakaraka Venus and the 7th lord Mars together, with Rahu, explain the fact that Krishna had a number of wives. But as Venus is near Rahu and away from the sensual planet Mars. His love for His wives had no taint of carnality as He was free from attachment of any kind. Though "associated with Prakriti, He was never affected by its qualities". Birth in a sign of Venus no doubt endowed him with a vital nature but it was under conscious control. Mercury, exalted in the 5th or house of children, occupies the constellation of the Sun while Jupiter Putrakaraka is in association with the Sun, with the result He had innumerable children born to Him. The 4th or house of education is considerably fortified due to the presence of Jupiter and the Sun-Jupiter occupying the constellation of Venus. It is said that Krishna became an expert in "siksha, kalpas, vedangas and all the vedas, and also in archery mimamsa, logical and six expedients of politics" and that "within 64 days and nights" He became "an expert in sixty-four forms of learning".

Important Events — The Moon, though excellently placed, owns the 3rd while Mars, as ruling the 7th, is a definite maraka. Consequently practically throughout the Dasas of the Moon and Mars, which extended till the native was aged about 11 years, Krishna suffered from severe strokes of Balarishta in the sense that He faced many a crisis in His life, especially from those deputed by Kamsa to slay Him. Probably at the fag end of Kuja Dasa, Krishna put to death His maternal uncle and tyrant Kamsa- As we have already said. Mars as lord of the 7th in association with Venus, lord of the 6th (enemies), in the 3rd (an upachaya) enabled Krishna to achieve victory over His greatest enemy and thus tide over the maraka period.

His subsequent exploits in disposing off innumerable wicked kings, in saving the pious and the god-fearing from death and in trying to prevent the fatricidal war between the Kauravas and the Pandavas are a legion and students of astrology can study them in the light of the Lord's horoscope. The most important event is His part in the Mahabharata war, which took place about 3138 B.C. when Ketu Dasa was in progress in the Lord's horoscope. Ketu is in the 9th, the house of Saturn, whose results Ketu should give. Saturn is Yogakaraka and occupies the 7th having gained digbaia or directional strength. Krishna's part in the Mahabharata war is well known. As charioteer to Arjuna, He remained a silent observer of the war, but directed "the movements to accomplish His final object of destroying the wicked and protecting the innocent".

Ketu is Mokshakaraka and he is in the 9th in the constellation of the Moon aspected by the martial planet Mars. And Saturn, as we have already seen, is immensely fortified. It was at the fag end of Ketu Dasa, that the immortal Bhagavadgita was taught by the Lord to Arjuna, on the battle-field, before the war commenced, when Arjuna, overcome by emotional weakness, shirked from his duty as a Kshatriya to fight for a just cause. In the remaining Dasas of Venus, the Sun and the Moon, Krishna passed a peaceful and happy life. With the dawn of Kuja Dasa again dissensions amongst Yadavas broke out. Finally Krishna shuffled off His mortal coil under the same directional influences. It will be seen that Mars as lord of the 7th is a definite maraka and he occupies the 3rd, a house of longevity, with Rahu. In the Navamsa again Mars is in the 2nd, a house of maraka. Consistent with the nature of Mars, Krishna departed by being hit by an arrow. When Krishna was sitting under an Aswatha tree in a forest, a fowler named Jara, thinking the foot of Krishna to be like the face of a deer, mistakenly shot his arrow. According to Bhagavata, the Lord departed to His own abode Vaikunta "in person".

Remarks — It is impossible for ordinary mortals to evaluate the personality of Sri Krishna — the Lord incarnate, statesman, counsellor, diplomat, philosopher, Yogeeswara, the expounder of the immortal Bhagavadgita, the destroyer of the wicked and the protector of the pious. All the three important factors in His horoscope, viz., the Lagna, the Sun and the Moon have been rendered strong. Atmakaraka Sun with the Gnanakaraka Jupiter aspecting the 10th or Karmasthana reveals an integrated and balanced personality. Yogakaraka Saturn is Vargottama and has digbala. His aspecting the Sun and Jupiter and his being placed in his own constellation are favourable factors rendering the nativity strong and sound. Since Saturn happens to be Ayush-karaka also, his strong disposition conferred a long life of 125 years. Mercury's exaltation in a trikona—as lord of the 2nd (speech) in the 5th (intelligence) denotes wonderful and extraordinary intellect. It will be seen that Lagna lord Venus is with two malefics. This combination plus the kendra position of Jupiter and the Sun indicates perfection of all aspects of His personality. He was an ideal father and an ideal son, an ideal king, an ideal husband, an ideal statesman and an ideal teacher. He showed the way to do things, to do one's duty, by being non-attached and He illustrated this in His own life.

Whatever be the opinions of some of the modern scholars, there is no doubt that Sri Krishna was a historical reality. A mere literary creation cannot by any stretch of imagination move millions of human beings and bring solace to countless souls. The clue to His personality can be found in the manner the benefics and maiefics are disposed in His horoscope and the spheres of influences involved. The meaning of what He did can only progressively reveal itself to the generations that follow Him. The immortal Bhagavad-Gita, preached by the Lord, when Arjuna became uncertain as to his duty, has inspired and influenced the moral and spiritual thought and actions of innumerable persons and offered such persons solutions to their problems according to their own stage in evolution.

by

B. V. Raman

Book Source : Notable Horoscopes

31st January 1991

Bangalore, India

Planets in signs and houses The twelve Bhavas or Houses

The twelve Bhavas or Houses

An individuals horoscope is divided into 12 Bhavas or houses, based on the position of ones lagna in the chart. The nature and qualities of the rasis, planets and the nakshatras explained so far are their basic inherent qualities. Once a persons chart is analyzed from the lagna point of view, based on the way these planets and rasis are placed from lagna, gives them a personal touch and helps us to understand the various aspects and events of ones life.
The sign in which your lagna or ascendant is placed becomes your 1st house. The sign next to that (clockwise in the south chart and anticlockwise in a north chart), becomes your 2nd house. The one next to that is your 3rd house and so on till the 12th house.
The 1st, 5th, and 9th houses are called Trikonas or trine houses. They are the most powerful and auspicious houses. They are also called Lakshmi sthanas as the rule all kinds of prosperities.
The 1st, 4th, 7th, and 10th houses are called Kendras or quadrants. They are also auspicious and powerful houses next to the konas.
The 3rd and the 11th houses are called Upachayas or houses of growth.
The 6th, 8th, and 12 houses are called Dusthanas or bad houses.

1, 5, and 9 are Dharma houses.

2, 6, and 10 are Artha houses.

3, 7, and 11 are Kama houses.

4, 8, and 12 are Moksha houses.

The 12 houses and what they signify and represent in your life.

The First house or Lagna called Tanu sthana, represents your birth, body looks and soul, personality traits and inclinations, longevity, health, character and nature. It also rules your head the head, longevity, health, character and nature of the native. It is a kendra a trikona and Dharma bhava, and it is at the same time . It is one of the most important and auspicious house in the horoscope.
If you don’t know your Lagna click here to use onsite instant calculator.

The Second house called Dhana sthana, represents your wealth, speech, family, face, right eye, mouth and the food you eat and charity and death.

The Third house called Bhatru sthana represents your younger brothers and sisters, courage, servants and subordinates, communications, talents and skills, sports, business, short distance travels.

The Fourth bhava called Matru sthana, represents mother, home, relatives, office or factory, emotions, domestic and house related happiness, landed property and conveyances, education mental peace and chest and lungs.

The Fifth house called Putra sthana, represents children, education and intellect, creativity, mantra, tantra and pooja.

The Sixth house called Shatru sthana, represents health, illness, injuries, loans, sports, maternal uncle, enemies and opposition.

The Seventh house called Kalatra sthana, represents spouse, sex life, reproduction and genital organs, partners, enjoyments and Kundalini shakti and death.

The Eight house called Ayu sthana, represents destruction, accidents, physical pains, inheritance, legacies, death and insurance.

The Ninth house called bhagya sthana, represents luck, prosperity, guru, father, religious and spiritual progress and knowledge of the scriptures, sadhana, pilgrimages, foreign travel and foreign trade, grandchildren.

The Tenth house represents your profession, business, authority and power and honours and achievements.

The Eleventh house represents gains and income, good news, money, elder brothers and sisters, friends, long distance travels, air lines and entertainment.

The Twelfth house represents losses, waste, expenses, foreign countries, imprisonment, death, sadhana and Moksha or final liberation. Each of the 9 different planets, while placed in the 12 different houses, produce different, and at times totally opposite results. Again each of them produce some good results and some bad results. Remember this important fact.

Planets in signs and houses MAHAMRITUNJAYA MANTRA WITH MEANING

Mahamritunjaya mantra is from the Rig-Veda and needs initiation for attaining Siddhi. Anybody can recite this mantra and attain good health, release from bondage and other problems.

                               

This is the greatest reliever from all evils and can be recited at any time like any other Maha-mantra. It should be recited preferably for forty days both in the morning and evening facing east. Recite the Maha-mantra 108 times  or its multiples in each sitting. This is the greatest work of Maharishi Vashistha. Before commencing the Mahamritunjaya mantra recite the following small prayer to the everlasting spirit of the Maharishi for his blessings and guidance.

OM SUCHIRMARKAIR BRIHASPATIM ADHVARESHU NAMASYATAH (21 Times)

 
We pray to Brihaspati (the Lord of this Universe and the teacher of this Vedic Knowledge), whose wishes are inviolable, for good thoughts (that will lead to good speech and actions that cannot be violated as it will be the truth).

VYAM VASHISHTHAYA NAMAH (21 Times)

 
This is the prayer to Maharishi Vashistha (whose Holy Spirit is Omnipresent).The initiated should practice the Pranayama ten times with the Beejakshara Mantra "OM HOUM JUM SAH" . Others can skip this and go to the Maha-mantra directly.

This is to be followed by the Dhyana Mantra (Meditation) of Sri Tryambakeswara (One of the twelve Jyotirlinga) and then meditate on Sri Tryambakeshwara (Lord Shiva) and Sri Amriteshwari (Gouri or Parvati Shakti) with the relevant beejakshara and Rudra Pooja. Meditate for at least 15 Minutes before starting the Japa (Recitation of Mantra).

Then repeat the following Mahamritunjaya mantra 108 times or multiples of this number.

The Mahamritunjaya Mantra reads:

OM TRYAMBAKKAM YAJAMAHE SUGANDHIM PUSTIVARDHANAM
URVAROOKAMEVA BANDANAAN MRITYORMOKSHEEYA MAAMRITAAT.

Meaning

OM is not spelt out in the Rig-Veda, but has to be added to the beginning of all Mantras as given in an earlier Mantra of the Rig-Veda addressed to Ganapati.

TRYAMBAKKAM refers to the Three eyes of Lord Shiva. 'Trya' means 'Three' and Ambakam' means eyes. These three eyes or sources of enlightenment are the Trimurti or three primary deities, namely Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva and the three 'AMBA' (also meaning Mother or Shakti' are Saraswati, Lakshmi and Gouri. Thus in this word, we are referring to God as Omniscient (Brahma), Omnipresent (Vishnu) and Omnipotent (Shiva). This is the wisdom of Brihaspati and is referred to as Sri Duttatreya having three heads of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

YAJAMAHE : means, "We sing Thy praise".

SUGANDHIM : refers to His fragrance (of knowledge, presence and strength i.e. three aspects) as being the best and always spreading around. Fragrance refers to the joy that we get on knowing, seeing or feeling His virtuous deeds.

PUSTIVARDHANAM : Pooshan refers to Him as the sustainer of this world and in this manner, He is the Father  of all. Pooshan is also the inner impeller of all knowledge and is thus Savitur or the Sun and also symbolises Brahma the Omniscient Creator. In this manner He is also the Father of all.

URVAAROKAMEVA : 'URVA' means "VISHAL" or big and powerful .'AAROOKAM' means 'Disease'. Thus URVAROOKA means deadly and overpowering diseases. The diseases are also of three kinds caused by the influence (in the negative) of the three Guna's and are ignorance (Avidya etc),falsehood (Asat etc as even though Vishnu is everywhere, we fail to perceive Him and are guided by our sight and other senses) and weaknesses (Shadripu etc. a constraint of this physical body and Shiva is all powerful).

BANDANAAM : means bound down. Thus read with URVAROOKAMEVA, it means 'I am bound down by deadly and overpowering diseases'.

MRITYORMOOKSHEYA : means to deliver us from death (both premature deaths in this Physical world and from the never-ending cycle of deaths due to re-birth) for the sake of Mokshya (Nirvana or final emancipation from re-birth).

MAAMRITAAT : means 'please give me some Amritam (life rejuvenating nectar). Read with the previous word, it means that we are praying for some 'Amrit' to get out of the death inflicting diseases as well as the cycle of re-birth.

Planets in signs and houses Pleochroism,Luminescence,Chelsea Filter,Microscopic Analysis,Thermal Conductivity,Specific Gravity,Gemstone Enhancements,Coloured Gemstone Cutting,Gemstone Deposits,Gemstone Mining,

When light passes through a doubly refractive gemstone, the light is split into two rays which are polarized at right angles to each other and travel at differing velocities through the gemstone. In some coloured doubly refractive gemstones, these rays may emerge differing in shade or colour. When this occurs, the rays are said to have experienced "Differential Selective Absorption".

Differential Selective Absorption:

Variations in the absorption of certain wavelengths dependent on direction, causing a stone to appear differently coloured in different directions.

D.S.A in :

Singly refractive Gemstones: No D.S.A, stone is the same colour in all directions. Monochroic.

Doubly refractive Gemstones:

Uniaxial - Two colours seen. Dichroic.

Biaxial - Three colours seen. Trichroic

Another term used for Differential Selective Absorption is Pleochroism.

---

Dichroscope

An instrument comprising of a suitably cut rhomb of Iceland Spar (Calcite) and a lens system in a short tube with a small square aperture at the other end.

The dichroscope separates the polarized rays so that they may be observed side by side.

Procedure:

1. ace the gemstone on the rotating platform of the dichroscope holder table down.
2. Direct light onto the gemstone.
3. View the stone through the dichroscope.
4. Slowly turn the rotating stage so as to view to all directions.
5. Look for different colours or shades of colour.

Factors:

1. Dichroism is only seen in "Doubly Refractive" gemstones.
2. It is not seen in gemstones that display "Anomalous Birefringence".
3. May be very weak or even undetectable.
4. Not seen in colourless doubly refractive gemstones or along an optic axis.
5. Exact colours are not important.
6. Helpful in distinguishing:

 
• Blue Sapphire from Synthetic or Natural Blue Spinel.
• Ruby from Garnet or Spinel.
• Emerald from Demantoid or Tsavorite Garnet.
• Any doubly refractive gemstone (ie Amethyst) from Glass.

Dichroism can also be used in colour grading coloured gemstones.

i.e Blue Sapphire described as Greenish/BLUE

 Dichroism can also be detected by using a polarizing filter. If it is rotated against a gem, first one colour will be seen (caused by one polarized ray) and then another. It can also be seen simultaneously by using a piece of suitably cut polaroid.

Luminescence

The effect noticed in some substances of giving out visible light when they are rubbed or scratched (Triboluminescence) or when they are irradiated with invisible electro-magnetic radiations (Fluorescence, Phosphorescence or Thermoluminescence).

Fluorescence	produced by exposure to invisible radiations, such as ultra-violet light or x-rays.
Phosphorescence	the afterglow of fluorescence when the stimulating radiations have been shut off.
Thermoluminescence	a secondary light generated by certain substances when heated with invisible infra-red rays.
Triboluminescence	the phenomenon exhibited by certain minerals when they are rubbed or scratched of exhibiting luminosity.
Cathodoluminescence	fluorescent effect displayed by some materials when they are bombarded with a been of electrons
Electroluminescence	form of luminescence produced by passing an electric current through them. Natural blue diamonds can be separated from artificially coloured blue diamonds using this technique since the former are semi-conductors while the latter are not.

Two methods used in Gemmology to produce luminescence are:

1. Ultra-violet Light
2. X-Rays

Ultra-violet Light:

The invisible rays, in the wavelength beyond the visible violet, having a range of between 100 and 380 nanometres.

Longwave	380 to 300 nanometres
Shortwave	300 to 200 nanometres

Fluorescence

GEMSTONE	LONGWAVE	SHORTWAVE
Paste (Glass)	Inert	Bright pale blue or green
Natural Blue Sapphire	Inert (due to Iron)	Inert
Synthetic Blue Sapphire	Inert	Greenish-blue due to Titanium
Natural Blue Spinel	Inert	Inert
Synthetic Blue Spinel	Red (due to cobalt)	Bluish-white
Cubic Zirconia	Mustard yellow	Less pronounced
Natural Purple Sapphire	Inert	Inert
Synthetic Purple Sapphire	Red	Bluish-white
Natural Ruby	Red	Red
Synthetic Ruby	More intense red	More intense red
Garnet	Inert	Inert
Natural Emerald	Green to Red	Inert
Synthetic Emerald	Strong red glow	Strong red
Diamond	Sky-blue, blue, green to yellow. Stones that fluoresce blue have a yellow afterglow	less pronounced

X-Rays

Electro-magnetic radiations of extremely short wavelengths falling between the ultra-violet and gamma rays of the electro-magnetic spectrum. Effects seen under X-rays are less variable than those under U.V light and are therefore considered more conclusive.

Uses:  

1. Used in the separation of Diamonds from its host rock. All diamonds fluoresce a chalky-blue when exposed to X-Rays.
2. Used to distinguish Natural from Cultured Pearls.
3.  Used to separate awkward Synthetic Rubies from Natural Rubies. Most Synthetic Rubies phosphoresce under X-Rays while Naturals do not.

Chelsea Filter

Developed jointly in the 1934 by the Gem Testing Laboratory of the London Chamber of Commerce and the Chelsea College of Science and Technology, the Chelsea Filter was primarily used to distinguish Emeralds from its many simulants.

The filter consists of a combination of two gelatine filters that transmit only deep red and yellow/green light. This combination was chosen since Emeralds transmit light in the deep red but absorb light in the yellow/green.

The best results are obtained when stones are examined under a strong electric light (not fluorescent light). By holding the filter close to the eye with the stone(s) receiving as much light as possible, the following reactions can be observed:

GREEN STONES

Natural Emeralds	Usually appear pinkish or reddish since Emeralds absorb in the yellow/green
Synthetic Emeralds	Similar reaction but in most cases they appear a more intense red
Emerald Simulants	Pastes (Glass), Soude Emeralds and Doublets appear green
Demantoid Garnet & Green Zircon	Similar to Emerald but will produce a negative reading on the refractometer (the scale will appear uniformly dark since no total internal reflection occurs)
Green Tourmaline	Green
Chrome Green Tourmaline	Red or Pink
Synthetic Green Spinel	Green
Peridot & Green Sapphire	Green

BLUE STONES

Synthetic Dark Blue Spinel or Natural Cobalt Blue Spinel	Red
Synthetic Light Blue Spinel	Orange
Zircon	Green
Cobalt Glass	Deep red
Aquamarine & Blue Topaz	Green
Sapphire	Dark green, almost black
Lapis Lazuli	Weak brownish-red

Exceptions:

Not all Emeralds will appear pinkish or reddish through the filter.

Blue Sapphires which show a purple colour change when viewed in artificial light usually appear red.

Natural Blue Spinels appear red.

OTHER USES:

The Chelsea Filter can also be used to separate Natural Green Jadeite from colour enhanced Jadeite.

If the stone appears red under the filter this is positive proof that the stone has been treated.

If the stone appears green, further tests should be carried out since some colour enhanced Jadeite remain inert under the filter.

Microscopic Analysis

The best way to examine a gemstone is by using a microscope.

The microscope provides better magnification, illumination and mechanical stability. It consists of a set of eyepieces, viewing tube, objectives, coarse and fine adjustments, stage with built in illumination (i.e Reflected light / Darkfield illumination). It is an essential tool for the gemmologist especially in the identification of synthetics.

Gemmological Applications:

1. Detection of synthetics and imitations.
2. Study inclusions to assist in determining identity or place of origin.
3. Detect double refraction (i.e Zircon or Peridot)
4. Detect composite or assembled stones.
5. Diamond or Coloured Stone clarity grading.
6. Proportion grading for both Diamonds and Coloured Stones.
7. Becke line method of R.I. determination.
8. Direct method of R.I. determination when fitted with a calibrated scale.
9. Study interference figures to determine whether it is uniaxial or biaxial when fitted with a polarizer/analyzer.

Thermal Conductivity

The Diamond Tester

Diamond has a much higher thermal conductivity than any of its simulants, and the tester uses this property to identify both mounted and unmounted stones. The instrument is particularly suited to testing small stones that are recessed in their mount.

Consists of:

1. Hand-held probe that is fitted with a miniature heating sensor.
2. A control box containing the associated electronic sampling and indicating circuits.

Procedure:

1. Short pulses of heat are fed to the probe's silver test tip.
2. The electronic circuits measure the rate at which this is conducted away into the gemstone under test.
3. A high rate of heat transference will cause the green light to flash indicating that the stone being tested is a diamond.
4. A low rate of heat transference will cause the red light to flash indicating that the stone is probably not a diamond.

Do's:

1. Always check the tester against the test plate supplied or a known diamond before using it.
2. Always allow the rings to cool before testing them if they have just been removed from the hand.
3. Always test unmounted stones by placing them table down on a test plate and touching the probe to the culet.
4. Always allow two to three second intervals between tests.
5. Always check stones twice.
6. Always return the probe to the holder after use.
7. Allow all stones to stabilize to room temperature.

Don'ts:  

1. Do not hold the stone or the mount with your fingers.
2. Never apply pressure to the probe.
3. Do not allow the tip of the probe to touch the metal mount.
4. Rely solely on the results of a diamond tester.

5.  

   Specific Gravity

   Definition:

   The weight of a gemstone in air compared to an equal volume of pure water at 4 degrees Celsius.
   

   Formula:

   Weight in Air Weight in Air - Weight in Water

   1 cc of water at 4 degrees Celsius = One gram.
   Methods for determining Specific Gravity
6. Displacement Method.
7. Hydrostatic Method.
8. Heavy Liquids.

Displacement Method

Suitable only for determining the Specific Gravity of large objects.

1. Weigh the object in air.
2. Fill a Eureka Can with water at 4 degrees Celsius until the water starts to flow from the spout.
3. Allow the water to stabilize and the overflow to cease.
4. Place a graduated vessel (marked in cc's) under the spout.
5. Carefully lower the object to be tested into the water.
6. Convert the water displaced (measured in cc's and representing the volume of the object) into grams.
7. Use the S.G formula.

Hydrostatic Method

Procedure:

1. Weigh the stone in air using a precision scale.
2. Adapt a beam balance scale by placing a four legged stand over the left hand pan so that the swing is unaffected.
3. Place on the stand a beaker of water at 4 degrees Celsius.
4. Using non-capillary wire, make a cage and attach the wire to the weigh pan hanger so that the cage is immersed in the water and stays submerged during each full swing without touching the sides.
5. Attach a counterpoise to the other weigh pan, shorter than the other side since it will have experienced weight loss by being submerged in the water.
6. Weigh the stone in the water.
7. Use the S.G Formula.

Heavy Liquids

Recommended liquids:

Liquid	Specific Gravity
Methylene Iodide	3.32
Bromoform	2.89
Monobromonapthalene	1.49
Benzyl Benzoate	1.11
Water	1.00

Varying S.G's can be achieved by diluting Methylene Iodide or Bromoform with either Benzyl Benzoate or Monobromonapthalene.

Procedure:

1. Clean the stone to be tested thoroughly.
2. Place the stone in one of the Heavy Liquids.
3. Observe one of the following reactions:

• If the stone floats - the stone has an S.G lower than the liquid.
• If the stone sinks - the stone has an S.G greater than the liquid.
• If the stone becomes freely suspended in the liquid - the S.G of the stone is equal to that of the liquid.

Disadvantages of S.G Determination

1. The Hydrostatic Method is only good for larger stones, under 3.00 carats errors are evident.
2. The Hydrostatic Method is time consuming.
3. Heavy liquids can damage porous stones.
4. Can only be used for unmounted stones.
5. Heavy liquids are unpleasant to deal with and in some cases
6. can be dangerous.

Advantages

1. Useful when dealing with unpolished stones or stones of high Refractive Index.
2. Easy to use (Heavy Liquids).

Amber Test

Procedure :

1. Dissolve 10 teaspoons of salt into 1/2 pint of water producing an S.G of 1.12 to 1.14

Observations :

Amber and Copal Resin will float while all other Amber imitations will sink.

Gemstone Enhancements

The various enhancements used today include:-

1. Heat Treatment.
2. Irradiation.
3. Impregnations.
4. Surface Modifications.
5. Composite or Assembled Stones.

Heat Treatment

Is defined as the controlled heating of certain stones in order to effect a change of colour. Certain stones are amenable to such heating and are considered quite stable while others are not. Since no two stones are alike, each possesses the potential to react differently. Stones in which the heat treatment is considered stable are considered commercially acceptable.

Detection

Detection for the most part is difficult. In some cases, identification is based on the fact that certain colours are rarely found in nature and are therefore considered to be enhanced. In other instances, the procedure is so widespread ( i.e Citrine Quartz) that it is automatically assumed to be treated.

Example: Blue Zircon which is produced by heat treating Brown Zircon.

Irradiation

Confined to a smaller group of gemstones, this process can occur in a variety of ways:-

1. Radium Treatment
2. Electro-magnetic bombardment
3. Neutron Radiation
4. Electron Radiation

Radium Treatment

Caused through exposure to alpha particles emitted by radium salts.

Detection:

Stones are radioactive and will fog a photographic plate if left in contact for several hours in a light proof box. The colouration (green in the case of diamond) is on the surface only and is normally detectable upon close examination.

Electro-Magnetic Bombardment

Bombardment by particles accelerated to enormous speeds in a cyclotron. In diamonds, the colour produced varies from green to black dependent on the length of the treatment.

Detection:

Detected by immersion in a highly refractive liquid since the colour is on the surface only. Yellow diamonds produced by further heating show a characteristic absorption band not seen in natural yellow diamonds. Treated stones will invariably show a ring around the girdle or an umbrella effect around the culet.

Neutron Radiation

Irradiation with neutrons from an atomic reactor. Colouration is through the entire stone rather than on the surface only.

Detection:

Brown and yellow diamonds produced by this method have a characteristic absorption band at 594nm but green diamonds are undetectable except for a variance in colour compared to the naturally occurring stone.

Electron Radiation

Colouration produced by using an accelerator. Colouration in the case of diamonds ranges from a pale blue to a blue green but is on the surface only. Colour resembles a rare type of diamond known as Type llb diamonds.

Detection:

Detectable by the fact that treated diamonds are non-conductors of electricity while natural blue diamonds are semi-conductors. Surface colouration is evident when the stones are immersed in a highly refractive liquid.

Most irradiated stones are considered stable but there are more cases of instability than in heat treated stones. Again commercial acceptance hinges on the degree of stability while public disclosure is open for debate.

Impregnations

These can include any of the following:-

1. Bleaching
2. Impregnation with colourless or coloured oils, waxes or plastics.
3. General dyeing

Detection:

1. In most cases, the stones are merely used to imitate more expensive stones ( i.e Chalcedony ) and can be identified by variances in physical properties and by microscopic examination.
2. In the case of dyed green Jadeite, identification is possible by the variances in the absorption spectra and by its reddish or pinkish appearance under the Chelsea Filter.
3. Some stones may fade under strong light.
4. Immersion in an R.I liquid may reveal localization of colour. ( Should not be used for porous stones )
5. Rubbing the material with a cloth or cotton swab previously soaked in acetone.
6. Colour rubbing off on the thread used for beads.

Reasons for using impregnations

Colourless:

1. Hide surface cracks.
2. To stabilize material ( i.e Turquoise) or to protect it from acidic skin oils.
3. Reduce porosity and improve colour.
4. Produce a hard coating over a roughly ground surface to give the impression of a polished surface.
5. Provide protection for softer stones.

Coloured:  

1. Fill cracks thereby improving colour.
2. To imitate other stones.

Surface Modifications

Can be through the application of any of the following:- 

1. Wax
2. Ink
3. Paint or Varnish
4. Foil backs
5. Mirror backs
6. Synthetic overgrowth.

Composite Stones

Stones constructed of two or more pieces of material which may or may not be genuine. Composite stones can fall into one of the following categories:- 

1. True Doublets - consisting of two pieces of genuine stone ( i.e Sapphire/Sapphire )
2. False Doublets - where the pavilion is normally glass or an inferior stone.
3. Triplets - consisting of three pieces.

Detection:  

1. Set in a liquid of similar refractive index. In the case of a Soude Emerald, the colourless spinel crown and pavilion will disappear in methylene iodide leaving a disc of green gelatine.
2. Joining line visible under microscopic examination.
3. Differences in lustre.
4. Bubbles where the two planes meet.
5. Refractometer tests are useful since most crowns are either quartz, spinel or glass.
6. Red "Halo" effect seen around the girdle of an Almandine Garnet doublet ( in colours other than red ) when placed table down on a piece of white paper.

Coloured Gemstone Cutting

Coloured gemstone cutting is one of the oldest art forms with records dating back to before the birth of Christ. It has essentially remained unchanged for centuries.

Originally, gemstones used to be decorated by scratching figures, symbols or letters onto them. This in turn lead to the art of "Engraving".

The origins of gemstone cutting can be found in India. Up until 1400 AD, there was very limited polishing done. This was mainly to improve lustre and remove unsightly blemishes.

Idar-Oberstein became the centre of Agate and Coloured Stone cutting in the 16th Century. Nowadays, in order to promote and encourage local cutting centres, many governments have started to restrict the export of rough materials. The major cutting centres today are Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, Brazil and Idar-Oberstein.

The manufacture of gemstones can be divided into 4 distinct areas:

 
1. Engraved Gemstones (i.e Cameos)
2. Agates.
3. Coloured Gemstones.
4. Diamonds.

The aim of the cutter is to try and retain as much weight as possible whilst ensuring that the most attractive colour is visible through the table facet. It is also critical that the cutter adhere to certain angles and proportions in order to maximize overall brilliance in the gemstone.

Engraving

Refers to Cameos, Intaglios, objets d'art and other ornamental pieces.

The oldest stone engraving consisted of cylinders that were engraved with symbols and figures and used as Seals or Amulets.

Today the main centre is Idar-Oberstein where 90% of the worlds gems are engraved.

Coloured Gemstones

Refers to all Coloured Gemstones except Diamonds.

Cutting gemstones is called lapidary work, with the cutter referred to as a "Lapidary".

Most cutters tend to specialize in certain stones or a group of stones.

Opaque Gemstones

Circular saws coated with diamond dust are used to first of all cut the rough into manageable pieces or by utilizing cleavage planes, which are directions of weakness in certain gemstones, with a small hammer.

Soapy water, oil or paraffin are used as a coolant. Final shaping usually occurs on a vertical roughly grained carborundum wheel cooled with water.

The preferred style of cut for opaque gemstones, heavily included stones or stones displaying "Optical Phenomena" is the "Cabochon" cut.

Transparent Gemstones

The final shaping is done on a horizontal grinding wheel. The stones are cemented into a 4-6 inch holder called a "Dop" using a special cement or shellac. Nowadays, special clamps are used as well. "Dops" are guided at an angle related to the facet being cut.

This is achieved either by inserting the wooden "Dop" into pre-drilled holes set at certain angles or by more modern devices used to control and ensure the proper angles are used.

Cutting wheels are usually made of lead, bronze, copper or tin. Polishing powders usually consist of Carborundum,

Diamond, Titanium or Carbide. The speed of the wheel, type of wheel and type of powder used all vary with the stone being cut.

The final polishing takes place on a horizontal wheel, wooden cylinder or leather straps to remove the final traces of scratches and also to improve the lustre.

Polishing compounds used are all finely grained and consist of Tripoli, Chromium Oxide, Diamond Powder, Garnet, Emery or Iron Oxide mixed with either water or in some cases Sulphuric or Acetic Acid.

Factors to be Considered When Cutting Coloured Gemstones

The cutting of small gemstones is only viable if the labour is inexpensive and in plentiful supply.

Automated faceting machines have recently been introduced but at present have limited applications.

The Lapidary must consider a number of variables before cutting a gemstone. These include:-

 
1. The shape of the rough and how it can be utilized to maximize yield.
2. How to ensure that the most attractive colour is visible when the stone is viewed in a face up position.
3. The position of fractures or inclusions which could affect the clarity of the stone.
4. The correct angles and proportions which will be needed to maximize brilliance.
5. How to juggle these factors to maximize profits.

6. Gemstone Deposits

   A deposit is defined as a group of occurrences large enough to be worked (also called a mine). A find is described as a single occurrence.
   Primary deposits refer to gems found in their original location. The yield is generally low due to the fact that many tons of non-gem bearing material have to be excavated.
   Secondary deposits refer to gems which have been transported by the actions of wind, rain and flowing water.
   Fluvial deposits are created by rivers, marine deposits by the sea and aeolian Deposits by the wind.
   The distribution of gems around the world is irregular. Gem deposits occupy only a tiny proportion of the earth's crust. Some of the more favoured regions are:
   The gem-rich metamorphosed limestones of Upper Mayanmar (including the "Mogok Stone Tract") renowned for Rubies, Sapphires and Spinels.
   The alluvial deposits of Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Thailand and Madagascar and the Minas Gerais and Minas Novas districts of Brazil.
   

   Mining Methods

   Most gemstones are discovered by accident. There is no systematic approach used for Coloured Gemstones due to the lack of capital. Exceptions being Australia where the mining of Sapphires is more mechanized and systematic.
   Recovery is accomplished invariably by simple means without the use of modern techniques or scientific basis. In many cases, the methods are very primitive and have remained unchanged virtually for 2,000 years.
   They consist of:-
7. Collecting gems from the surface, from dry river beds, or rock fissures.
8. Sinking shafts into the ground sometimes up to 30ft deep.
9. Panning rivers.
10. Driving short tunnels into the sides of hillsides (used for mining Ruby, Sapphire in Mayanmar and Emerald in Colombia)
11. Open-cast mining (i.e Ammolite)
12. Using powerful jets of water, when available, to loosen the gem material from the overburden.
13. Digging pits into ancient river beds to reach the "Gem Gravels", (i.e Sri Lanka, Mayanmar, Thailand).
14. Terrace mining (i.e The Chivor Mine in Colombia).
15.  Underground mining which is expensive and can only be justified if a significant vein is located.

16. Gemstone Mining

    Famous International Gem Mines

    Sri Lanka

    Sri Lanka is situated in the Indian Ocean south-west of India. It is bordered by the Indian Ocean to the north, south, east and west. It is located a few degrees north of the equator and is the 24th largest island covering some 25,332 square miles.
    The population is approximately 14 million comprising of 79% Sinhalese, 13% Tamil (both South Indian & Sri Lankan Tamils) and 7% Moors.
    Sri Lanka was formerly known as Ceylon until May 22nd, 1972.
    Ceylon is the ancient Sinhalese name meaning "Resplendent Land",also known as SERENDIB or TRAPROBANE to ancient navigators.
    The climate and vegetation are both tropical. Warm and humid at sea level (average temperatures 78 F to 82 F), the humidity during the day can be 70% (at night 90%). In the mountainous regions, average temperatures are 60 F. The monsoon seasons are from May through June and September through November. Average rainfall varies from below 40 inches in the dry northern zone and on the eastern slopes of the mountains to over 200 inches in some places on the south-western slopes. March to April are the hottest months.
    Sri Lanka is an important source for not only gems but also tea, spices, rubber and coconuts. Approximately 2/3rds of the cultivated land and 2/3rds of the population are involved in the production and distribution of these products. Tea, rubber, coconuts and rice make up 95% of the countries exports and account for 75% of the cultivated land. Tea brings in over 66% of the yearly income from exports. In fact, Sri Lanka is the second largest producer of tea.
    Rubber accounts for 15% of the yearly export income and coconuts account for 14%.
    Gems continue to be a small and significant product of Sri
    Lanka and has supplied the world with fine Rubies and Sapphires for over 2,000 years. Many consider Sri Lanka to be the original source of Ruby and Sapphire.
    Although Burma has produced finer qualities, Sri Lanka has produced Rubies and Sapphires in larger sizes for longer periods of time.
    All varieties of Corundum are found in Sri Lanka including the "PADPARADSCHA" which is unique to the island.
    Main Gem Centres of Sri Lanka
17. Ratnapura : The oldest known source in Sri Lanka, meaning "City of Rubies" or "City of Gems".
18. Elehara District : important in recent years for producing large and fine specimens of many gems including Sapphire and Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl.
19. Area around Morawaka : known for Alexandrite and Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl.
20. Nuwara Eliya : situated in the mountainous tea country.

Mining

Mining in Sri Lanka is mainly alluvial with gem deposits found not only in present river systems but also below rice paddies where ancient rivers once flowed.

The depth of the gem gravel or "ILLAM" varies from 3m to 20m to as much as 40m at Pelmadulla.

The search for gems is a highly speculative operation and is usually carried out by a group of native workmen on a share basis. 1/5th goes to the owner of the land, 1/5th to the financier and the rest goes to the workers.

Access to these gem producing areas is often limited especially during the monsoon seasons. When the word spreads that a miner has struck paydirt, the area is soon inhabited by treasure seekers who dig pits everywhere. These pits are usually dug very close together with somewhat thin retaining walls between them. Pits can be up to 50 feet deep and are hazardous at night to both humans and animals. Deserted pits, left with standing water, become breeding grounds for mosquitoes and the resulting malaria is constantly challenging the local governments.

Pits are normally worked by 4 workers, one to fill the baskets with "ILLAM", one to throw it to the top, one to catch it and one to take it to the washing area.

Water is a big problem especially with the high water table that some areas have. It must be constantly bailed or pumped out using petrol-operated pumps since by law, only the simplest of equipment is allowed in Sri Lanka. Only in areas slated to be submerged due to the construction of large dams for hydro-electric projects has the government allowed modern mining methods.

Although the many restrictions have hindered the progress of the gem industry in Sri Lanka, it has provided prolonged employment for thousands of needy villagers.

Once the gem gravel reaches the central washing area, it is emptied into deep conical baskets which are large enough to wash approximately 20 basketfuls of illam at a time.

The art of washing is reminiscent of panning for gold with the water carrying the mud and lighter stones through the fine mesh and over the top of the basket. This leaves the heavier materials clean and concentrated at the bottom of the cone.

The sorting is carried out by one who is expert in the recognition of rough gems. First the larger fine precious stones are removed (known as JATHI) and given to the financier of the project for safekeeping. The residual (known as TOURA-MALI) is handed to another man to ensure that nothing has been missed.

The Sri Lankan gem gravels also produce zircon, tourmaline, peridot, quartz, garnet, feldspar and a number of other stones. Diamonds, opal and emerald are not found on the island.

Thailand

Thailand is bordered by Mayanmar and Laos to the north, Laos and Cambodia and the Gulf of Siam to the east, Malaysia to the south and the Andaman Sea and Burma to the west.

It was formerly known as Siam until 1939 when it became known as Thailand.

Allied to the Japanese in the Second World War, the name was abandoned in 1945 by the pro-allied free Thai government to expediate peace negotiations with Britain but was revived in 1948.

Although Thailand has been a constitutional monarchy since 1932, political power long resided with the military regime.

In 1973, the military regime of KITTIKACHORN was overthrown by student uprising and replaced by a civilian government in 1975.

Thailand covers some 514,000 square kilometres. It's population is approximately 55.5 million. The capital is Bangkok.

Thailand is unique in that it is the regions only nation to have avoided the experience of colonial domination and has therefore been able to preserve much of its traditional society, religious traditions and ancient India-derived conception of governmental authority.

The climate is hot and humid most of the year. In the central valley, temperatures rarely go below 65 F in the coolest months (December / January) and extend upward to around 100 F from March to May.

The rainy season extends from June through September. The central valley lies in the rain shadow of the Mayanmar mountains to the west and receives annual precipitation of 40 inches compared to 220 inches in Mayanmar. The vegetation is tropical.

Gem quality Corundum are found at three major localities in Thailand and neighbouring Cambodia.

Gem Localities

Chanthaburi, Trat, Pailin

1. Khao Ploi Waen : thought to be the first place in Thailand where Corundum was found.
2. Bang Kha Cha Gems Found : Blue, green, yellow and black star Sapphires
3. Bo Waen : Ruby only
4. Bo Na Wong : Ruby only
5. Wat Tok Phrom : Ruby only
6. Ban Bo I-Ram : Very deep Blue Sapphire
7. Nong Bon : Ruby - larger stones
8. Bon Rai : Ruby - finer colours
9. Pailin Fields : Ruby

Best known for Blue Sapphires ranging in colour from medium to deep blue, considered among the worlds finest.

Bo Ploi, Kanchanaburi

Considered to be Thailand's major source of Blue Sapphires.

It was discovered in 1919 and also produces the occasional yellow, pink and star Sapphires.

The Blue Sapphires strongly resemble the heat-treated blue sapphires from Sri Lanka. Most are sold in parcels of Sri Lankan goods because of the preference for Sri Lankan blue sapphires.

Phrae Province

Although this area has been known since the 1920's, it has only been worked since the 1970's. The area produces mainly Blue and Green Sapphires. The blues are a very deep inky-blue sometimes slightly violet. Large sizes 5cts or more are rare. The smaller gems are usually cut as melee due to the deep colour. Phrae Province is considered the least important in terms of production.

Mining

There are two types of mining in Thailand.

1. Primitive Pit Mining
2. Mechanized Mining

As a general rule, access is limited into many of the gem producing areas. At BO WAEN, BO NA WONG, WAT TOK and BAN BO I-RAM, access is very poor although a number of large mechanized mines are found. At NONG BON and BO RAI access is good and it is at these two sites, where Thailand's largest mines can be found.

In the dry season, the roads are extremely dry and dusty but during the rainy season, the roads become almost impassable except by four-wheel drive. In some cases, the mud can be several feet deep and often crudely built bridges are washed away during the summer rains.

Most of the mining in the Chanthaburi area is alluvial. If gem indications are found, the jungle can be uprooted and cleared in a matter of days. What remains is an open clay field where gems may be found at depths of only 3 to 5 feet.

When gems are found, local villages spring up quickly with housing made of regional timber and tin roofs to protect against the monsoons. Many houses are not enclosed within walls. Digging, washing and sorting are all carried out in the backyards.

Generally, one worker will remove the earth at the bottom of the pit and another will man a bamboo lift which brings the earth to the surface. After sufficient quantities have been brought to the surface, the earth is placed in either bamboo trays (similar to Sri Lanka) and washed in small man-made pools or placed in large sluice boxes, screened at one end. High pressure water is forced onto the gravel, washing away the loose clay which runs as mud and water through the screens. Washing may take up to an hour leaving pure gravel behind.

As the gravel is sorted, the sorter usually puts the gems into his mouth and when his mouth is full or the basket is empty, they are put into parcels. Sometimes they are put into plastic bags filled with water to intensify the colour and magnify the size to potential buyers.

A more costly venture in a major producing area is the use of a bulldozer. Using this method, the jungle and overburden can be stripped in a matter of hours. The remaining soft clay, can then be eroded away using powerful water hoses and the resulting mud is "vacuumed" away by the second miner and directed towards the sluice boxes.

The mud is then filtered through the screens built into the bottom of the sluice boxes leaving the gem gravel behind.

Chanthaburi is famous for its household industry in the cutting and polishing of gems. These include not only locally mined gems but also gems from around the world. Almost every home has a grinding wheel and one or more polishing wheels. Both hand and power driven machines are used.

After the preforming has been done, the final polish is placed on the stones. The stones are "dopped" and propped against a make-shift ledge with all the angles and finished polish estimated by the naked eye.

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