Taurus: April 21- May 21
The gemstone most usually associated with the Bull is the diamond. Those Bulls with April birth dates may find that the diamond is more suited to them than any other stone. However the other stones, which more properly fit in with the characteristics of Taurus, are coral, emerald, lapis lazuli and jade. Sometimes you will also see sapphires being associated with Taurus. Taurus has as its planet Venus.
Diamond
The diamond, one of he most precious stones, belongs, in April. It is said to signify purity and innocence and it is for this reason that it is so often seen in engagement rings. Diamonds are supposed to be most powerful when combined with other gemstones and this could have led to the popularity of rings containing diamonds and other stones together. Very large diamonds are traditionally unlucky and there are many sad tales regarding the owners of unusually large diamonds.
Diamonds are crystalline forms of carbon and are the hardest stones know. It is said that diamonds belonged to Mars, the God of war (another link with Aries) and carrying one into battle protected the warrior and guaranteed success, making him invincible and strengthening his muscles. In Roman times, it was bound to the left arm of the warrior to bring added strength and courage.
The name “diamond” comes from a word meaning “indomitable”, and the stone has always been associated with strength. Early Christians associated the stone with courage and it has always been thought to bring food luck. In the Middle Ages, it was said to help with madness, nightmares and in curing those who had been poisoned or subject to some form of pestilence.
It is only in recent centuries that diamonds have become such prized possessions, as in early days the ways in which they were cut led them to be dull and lacking in the sparkle with which they are no associated. The bloodstone and diamond worn together are said to be particularly propitious.
Emerald
Emerald is a variety of beryl. Beryl has always been associated with the emotions. Emeralds symbolize serenity, success in love, wealth, happiness and peace of mind, and it’s said they help with eyesight problems and restore youth (probably the two being linked).
Thought to improve the memory and help in cases of insomnia, the emerald also strengthens the immune system. It is a good gemstone to use when meditating, as it assists in deeper spiritual insight. The emerald is considered the stone for May birthdays.
There is evidence that in Roman times wealthy people with eyesight problems wore emerald eyeglasses, and there are stories that the emperor Nero watched gladiatorial combat through an emerald to help his vision. Others considered that the emerald would help in healing ear problems. It has been said that emeralds will help cure ulcers, prevent fits and also ease childbirth. The Romans thought the emerald a remedy for the bite of poisonous spiders, whereas in the Middle East, it was said to ensure immortality. Other civilizations considered the emerald a deterrent against being possessed by demons and in India they were often used to decorate temples. In ancient times, due to the ease with which they could be cut, they were the most popular stone and credited with many powers.
If you are in need of confidence, emerald is the stone to wear, as it encourages faith in you own abilities.
Red Corral Gemstone Tree Large - $75
Corral
Corral, which is not a true gemstone but a product of marine life, has always been associated with helping protect against malevolent attack (“the evil eye”) and is usually pink, although sometimes white or red. The name comes from a Greek word for sea nymph. Corral has associations with stopping blood-flow, helping in cases of anemia, giving wisdom and preventing madness. Plato suggested that is helped children with toothache and also kept sickness at bay, especially if worn around the neck. Red corral is said to relieve bowel disorders and skin problems and cleanse the system from impurities. Known to help with the throat and voice problems which beset Taurians, corral is also said to strengthen the spleen and is another stone with is thought to lose its color when the owner is ill.
Jade
Jade has always been popular with the Chinese. It appears in many of their temples and has been used in its powdered form as an internal treatment. In ancient times, jade was more highly prized than gold and was linked with eternity. The Maoris of New Zealand often use it in their weapons.
Traditionally associated with the month of May, it is said to relieve renal problems, protect wounds from becoming inflamed and to help with eye diseases. It is often linked with women, helping with all kinds of female disorders.
Yellow jade is thought to aid digestive problems. The stone is also said to assist wisdom and bring tranquility. Jade is said to guard against lightning.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli, or more properly “lazurite”, is a beautiful blue-green rock, whose name derives from the Arabic and Latin words for this color. In ancient times referred to as the “stone of Heaven”, and more recently as the “night stone”, it is usually found in limestone near granite rock, enclosing grains of pyrite, especially in Italy, Chile and Turkey. It also has strong associations with the Egyptians, often being worn by them as a talisman to ward of danger. It was also thought to be an aid in cases of epilepsy and a protection against hazards. More recently it has been used to help with thyroid problems and neuralgia.
It should be noted that lapis lazuli is a powerful gemstone and should therefore only be worn by those people who have sufficient strength of character and body to deal with its power. Those of a sensitive nature may find it overpowering unless it is encased in glass or crystal. It is said to be particularly useful in treating thyroid problems and a s an aid to enhancing psychic abilities, helping use to get in touch with our higher selves. It is a good stone to wear when decision-making.
