For Countless centuries, the cultures of India and South-East Asia have revered the beautiful nine-gem talisman known as 'Nava-Ratna'. Combining the gemstones representing each of nine planets in sidereal astrology, the 'Nava-Ratna' is esteemed by ancient tradition as a bringer of good fortune through its favourable influence on the planetary energies. Another famous Indian classical work 'Phaldeepika' has also subscribed to the above view. These gem stones are called Nav-ratnas (Nine Gems).

The most well-known design places a ruby, representing the sun, in the center encircled by eight other planetary gem-stones. Diamond for Venus, pearl for Moon, coral for Mars, hessonite for Rahu, blue sapphire for Saturn, cat's eye for Ketu, yellow sapphire for Jupiter and emerald for Mercury.

Vedic Astrology since the ancient times has always believed in the healing powers of the gemstones.