Gemstones are steeped in mythology and folklores of civilizations from around the world. Their colours, history and origins have fascinated humans since time immemorial. So here we take a look at some of the intriguing legends associated with popular gems.
13 Popular Gemstone and Mythical Legends Associated with Them
1. Ruby
This radiant gemstone has been an important part of history since ancient times. In the Bible, it was believed to be one of the 12 precious stones created by God. According to Hindu mythology, Ruby was known as ‘Ratnaraj’, which means ‘the king of gems’. Due to its brilliant red colour, Ruby has always been associated with blood and courage. Burmese soldiers believed that wearing this gemstone made them invincible. So strong was the belief that some soldiers even inserted ruby into their flesh to be safe during wars.
2. Emerald
Emerald has always held a special place in mythology. It is said that the Roman Emperor Nero used to view the gladiator fights through an Emerald because of its colour’s calming effect. The green stone was also associated with rebirth and protection by the ancient Egyptians. This is the reason why a lot of mummies were buried with an Emerald around their necks for a safe passage to the afterlife and to facilitate the possibility of rebirth.
3. Pearl
The Persians believed this gem was created when a rainbow touched the earth after a storm. Lightning and thunder were said to give the pearl its lustrous appearance. This gem is mentioned extensively in the history of other civilizations too. In ancient Japan, it was believed that pearls were formed from the tears of mermaids, angels and other mythical beings. The Chinese believed that black pearls were born within a dragon’s head and to collect it, one had to slay the dragon! And you thought your job was difficult.
4. Diamond
This gemstone needs no introduction. Diamonds have captivated humankind since the beginning of life and during the Middle Ages, they were believed to have healing abilities. It was called ‘the miracle stone’ and was said to cure every ailment with its touch. The Jews used diamonds to determine the innocence of an accused. If innocent, the diamond placed before them would sparkle and if guilty, it would become dull. Diamonds definitely made life difficult for doctors and lawyers in those days.
5. Aquamarine
Aquamarine due to its colour, has been associated with the sea (from which it also gets its name). Greek and Roman sailors believed that the gemstone’s power could guide them through choppy waters. It was said that this stone was found in treasures that belonged to the mermaids. Aquamarines also represented happiness and loyalty.
6. Peridot
Also known as the ‘Gem of the Sun’ due to its brilliant shine, Peridot was believed to drive away evil spirits and protect one from magic spells. The gemstone was also said to shine in the absence of light, which made it a suitable stone to drive away the demons of darkness. When set in gold, Peridot was said to protect the wearer from ailments like fever and asthma.
7. Moonstone
As the name suggests, ancient Romans believed that this gemstone was formed by freezing the moonlight. It was also called the ‘Traveler’s Stone’ and was said to protect those who ventured into the sea during the night. Moonstone was also known as an aphrodisiac. When worn by two people under the full moon, it was said to make them fall passionately in love with each other. This is clearly as romantic as it can get!
8. Amethyst
Did you know that amethysts derive their name from the Greek word ‘amethystos,’ which translates to ‘not being inebriated’? And there’s a fun back story too. Here’s how it goes: As per Greek folklore, a beautiful maiden named Amethysta attracted Dionysus, the god of wine. Bacchus pursued this young maiden relentlessly, however, she kept rejecting his advances.
This in turn further angered him and he tried to get her killed. Amethysta prays to Goddess Diana for help, who turns her into a white stone (quartz). Eventually, Dionysus realises his mistake, he wept tears and dropped his glass of wine over the statue, which stained it purple and created an amethyst.
Later the Greeks and Romans believed that wearing an amethyst would negate the effects of alcohol and keep the wearer clear-headed. Ready to test this theory out for yourself?
9. Garnet
According to Biblical mythology, Noah used a finely cut glowing garnet to illuminate the ark during the great flood. Another legend states that Hades, the Greek God of the Underworld, gave a garnet to Persephone to ensure that she returned to him.
While the Muslims thought that the Garnet illuminates the Fourth Heaven, Christian beliefs consider the garnet a symbol of Christ’s sacrifice. The ravishing red gems were also worn as talismans and associated with virtues like passion, friendship and good luck. We say it’s the perfect gem for not just luck but also stylish looks.
10. Sapphire
The dazzling sapphire is one of the most cherished gems of all time and as such has lots of interesting folklores surrounding it. Persian legends state that the earth rested upon a giant sapphire and that the colour of the sky was a reflection of this blue gem. (Whoaaa!) The ancient Greeks on the other hand associated Sapphire with the god Apollo and wore them for guidance when seeking answers from the oracle.
Many historians believe that the tablet of the Ten Commandments which were given to Moses was composed of sapphire. Across various cultures, sapphires have been considered the gem of wisdom, heavenly blessings and protection from evil. It truly is a royal gemstone with so many amazing virtues.
11. Opal
Are you fascinated by the fiery hue of the opals? These legends surrounding them will fascinate you further. As per the Arabs, these gems fell from the heavens in flashes of lightning, whereas Greek mythology states that opals were formed from Zeus’ (the God of lightning) joyful tears after winning the battle against the Titans.
Meanwhile, according to Australian aborigines, the Creator came from the heavens on a rainbow to visit earth to deliver a message of hope and peace for all mankind. When his feet touch the ground all the nearby rocks suddenly became alive and began to sparkle, leading to the birth of an opal. Made you go OMG, didn’t it?
12. Turquoise
You’ll never look at the turquoise the same way again after reading this folklore! The vivid blue gem plays a pivotal part in Native American folklore. The Navajo legend narrates the story of the female goddess Estsanatlehi who appeared to humankind as a drop of turquoise or a turquoise woman.
Another Native American tale also describes how, when rains came after a long drought and the people cried with relief, their tears mingled with water and became turquoise. And that’s not all.
The early Aztecs valued turquoise more than emerald and gold and used it as talismans and the ancient Persians wore these gems for good fortune, protection and wisdom.
13. Topaz
Numerous cultures across the world have attributed topaz as the gem of peace, healing and wealth. Topaz was worshipped in Egypt and the ancients believed that this radiant gem held the power of the sun, and as such would always protect them.
While the Romans didn’t share the same belief, they thought that the topaz would change its colour when placed near poisoned food or drink and hence would protect one from poison.
The African shamans considered this gem sacred and used it in their healing rituals and to attract abundance. A stone brimming with beauty and lots of magical powers. Now, who wouldn’t want that?
Gemstone Legends That Will Blow Your Mind FAQs
- What are the 7 precious stones?Diamonds, rubies, pearls, emeralds, sapphires, alexandrites and the oriental cat’s eye are considered the seven precious gemstones.
- Which gemstones are studded on Aaron’s breastplate and what do they represent?In the book of Exodus, Aaron’s breastplate is said to be embellished with carnelian, chrysolite, emeralds, turquoise, sapphire, jacinth, agate, crystal, beryl (aquamarine), lapis lazuli and jasper. They are said to represent the twelve months of the year and the twelves signs of the zodiac.
- What is the tablet of stone made of?The tablet of stone is believed to be made of blue sapphire. It’s believed to symbolize the sky and the heavens.
