by Emily Trinkaus

Gemstones are more than just pretty ornaments. These natural, Earth-based beauties also have the power to heal, protect, relax and clarify. Certain gemstones are particularly beneficial for each zodiac sign. When thinking about which gem is appropriate for you, a friend or a loved one, consider not only Sun signs, but Moon and Rising signs as well.

Aries (March 21 - April 19)
Diamond: Like Aries, a sign known for its strength and survival skills, the Diamond is the hardest of the gems. The Diamond carries masculine energy, evoking your inner warrior and helping you to pursue your goals and persevere in challenging times. Considered the stone of innocence and purity, this precious gem also assists you with attaining spiritual clarity and speaking your heart’s truth. The Diamond, associated with wealth, can help you attract abundance in all areas of life.

Bloodstone: A deep green stone with red specks, Bloodstone (also known as Heliotrope) can help calm, center and ground overwrought Aries energy, especially in survival situations. Bloodstone is traditionally associated with many healing properties, including removing energy blocks, releasing emotional traumas and aligning the chakras. It is said to increase courage and enhance the intellect, while lessening confusion and anxiety.

Other gems associated with Aries: Jasper, Ruby, Carnelian, Garnet

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)
Amber: Amber is not actually a stone but the petrified resin of trees that once grew in forests along the Baltic sea -- appropriately earthy origins for nature-loving Taurus. Amber’s gold-orange color is known for grounding and stabilizing higher spiritual energies into the physical body. Its influence is simultaneously calming and energizing, enhancing patience, protection and balance. Amber is said to absorb negative energy, thereby promoting the body’s ability to heal itself.

Rose Quartz: Traditionally associated with Venus, the planetary ruler of Taurus, this beautiful pink stone opens and heals the heart. Rose Quartz is recommended for all love-related matters, whether you are recovering from a painful relationship, interested in attracting a new romance, or simply looking to get in touch with your true feelings. Rose Quartz can strengthen self-worth, thereby helping you feel deserving of love. Its gentle vibration radiates peace and calm, soothing sensitive emotions.

Other gems associated with Taurus: Turquoise, Blood Coral, Emerald, Sapphire

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)
Agate: Mentally active (and sometimes hyperactive) Gemini can benefit from the grounding and calming influence of this stone. By strengthening the body’s connection to the Earth, Agates enhance courage and vitality while protecting from energy drains and stress. Considered a stone of harmony, the Agate can inspire the Twins' multiple personalities to come into a state of balance and integration. Carry or wear Agate when you have to make an important decision -- this stone will sharpen your sight, stimulate your intellect and dispel fears.

Citrine: Appropriate for brainy Gemini, Citrine was traditionally called the stone of the mind. Citrine enhances mental clarity and opens the mind to new ways of thinking. By strengthening the intellect, this stone diminishes irrational mood swings and promotes a sense of well-being and self-confidence. Citrine is also known as the lucky “Merchant’s Stone,” bringing success and prosperity, especially in the realm of business and commerce.

Other gems associated with Gemini: Chrysoprase, Pearl, Moonstone, White Sapphire

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)
Moonstone: This magical gemstone is, not surprisingly, associated with the Moon, Cancer’s planetary ruler. Moonstone is said to absorb the healing power of the Moon, and the most powerful time to wear it is during a Full Moon. Moonstone offers protection for Cancer’s sensitive nature while enhancing intuition, feminine energies and psychic abilities. Considered a stone of inner growth and spiritual perception, Moonstone is an excellent ally during meditation. Additionally, Moonstone brings success in both love and business.

Pearl: Cancer’s ever-shifting emotional tides are supported by the Pearl, which attunes its wearer to the ebb and flow of life while providing a calming and centering influence. Traditionally called the “Mother Stone,” the Pearl resonates with Cancer’s maternal energy, fostering motherly love and protection. Pearls are also said to increase fertility. On a material level, they attract fame and wealth. Spiritually, they can help you connect with the Goddess or Great Mother, the ultimate feminine energy.

Other gems associated with Cancer: Emerald, Ruby

About the Author
Emily Trinkaus, Virgo, produces content for Tarot.com. A lifelong student of Astrology, she has practiced professionally since 1999. She lives in Portland, Oregon where she also offers creative writing workshops. See virgomagic.com for information about astrology readings and upcoming events.

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