The Garuda Purana ascribes the origin of gemstones to the slaying of the demon, Vala, whose served limbs were transformed into precious gem seeds, his blood transformed into Rubies, his teeth becomes Pearls and so on. Each gem possessed characteristics powers of enhancing or controlling individual traits. Emeralds had positives influences on intellect and wit. Diamond were associated with inner and outer refinement, blue sapphires had to be used with caution as the influence of Saturn could often proved destructive. It was only when gem stones were combined in a manner with particular reference to the individuals that their beneficent effect were felt.

Each Navratan stones draw energy in the form of Cosmic rays from heavenly body associated with it. The grouping of the nine stones in a set manner in a piece of jewellery is believed to be a storehouses of energy or power that is unending and enhances the life of the person wearing it.

Combined in a certain arrangements, the nine gems used in a piece of jewellery is called nav-ratan. The setting of nav-ratna is determined by rules known to astrologers and jewellers. Patterns established according to the cardinal points were adopted with individual variations determined by horoscope.

Nav-Ratan

Ruby(Sun, Surya); Pearl(Moon, Chandra); Coral(Mars, Mangala); Emerald(Mercury, Budha); Diamond(Venus, Shukra); Topaz(Jupiter, Brihaspati); Blue Sapphire(Saturn, Shani); Garnet(North Mode of Moon, Rahu); Cat's Eye(South Node of Moon, Ketu).