Gemstones can be used to cure diseases caused by afflicted planets, according to Ayurveda. To find the most effective gems for one’s particular illness, one should be diagnosed and appropriate remedies prescribed by an Ayurvedic doctor. To make such medicines, the gems are powdered (pishti) or from the ashes (bhasma). High quality gems can also be placed in a solution of diluted alcohol and set in a dark place for between twelve hours and seven days. The gemstones are then removed and the alcohol solution used as medicine. This gem tincture can be kept in storage; it does not quickly lose its potency. The gemstone itself is also reusable. To store such medicine, place it in a box the same color as the gem used. This will protect the tincture’s potency. The usual dosage is about ten drops in half a cup of water, and then drunk. Some authorities believe that alcohol should not be used because it is not a pure substance. Gems can also be tinctured in water, which is considered by some authorities to be a purest system. Place a gem in a glass of water in the sun for two to four hours or overnight. If overnight, the tincture should be drunk the next day; water tinctures quickly lose their potency. Wearing Gems Ideally, gems should be worn on the correct finger, should be set in the correct metal, and should be the correct weight. They will have the best effect if they are also worn on the correct day and at the correct time of day. At least the installation of the gems should be performed on the correct day, and proper mantras should be chanted when they are first put on. It is best if the gem’s wearer, him or herself, chants the mantras. It is important to clean gems before wearing them. They can be cleaned by running water over them for six to eight hours, by burying them overnight in the earth and then rinsing them with clean water in the morning, by placing them in a candle flame, or by placing them in direct sunlight. They can also be purified by being placed next to a crystal quartz.
Gems for Health

(via Eastern Gemology)