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Zodiac stones are referred to in Vedic astrology, whereas birthstones are primarily in Western astrology. People get confused between the two and cannot choose the right natural gemstone for them.
Both these gems are linked to different worlds of astrologers understanding the two helps you to find when to wear what. This blog highlights the key differences between zodiac stones and zodiac birthstones.
Zodiac gemstones are assigned as per the zodiac sign. There are 12 zodiac signs in astrology based on the position of the Sun. In Vedic astrology zodiac stones are determined by the positioning of the graha (planets) in the birth chart. There is a designated planet for each gemstone. Learn More: Planetary Relationship in Vedic Astrology
For example, the planet Shani rules Neelam stone, yellow sapphire is for the planet Jupiter, and so on. So, wearing blue sapphire stone can be highly beneficial if your Shani is ill-placed or you are going through the phase of Shani sade sati.
Zodiac stones are also called Vedic stones in Indian astrology, as they are specifically used for astrological purposes. They show their effect only after they are activated by Vedic Pooja with mantras and wearing procedures being correctly followed.
Zodiac birthstones, on the contrary, are different from zodiac stones. These are also referred to as birthstone by month because they are suggested as per the month the person is born. For instance, Sapphires (all sapphire varieties) are September birthstones; individuals whose birthday falls this month can wear this stone.
There are traditional and modern birthstone charts. Each month has a specific gemstone, and the person can wear the birthstone accordingly.
Read Here: Birthstones As Per Western Astrology | Complete Birthstone Guide
So, are Zodiac stones and birthstones the same? No, they are not. Let's find out the key difference between the two:
Zodiac stones are considered in Vedic astrology, whereas birthstones are a concept stated in Western astrology. Read Here: Difference Between Western and Vedic Astrology
Zodiac gemstones are suggested as per the planets. They are also decided by rashis or zodiacs thus known as birthstones by zodiacs. For example, Makar (Capricorn) and Kumbh (Aquarius) rashis are ruled by planet Shani (Saturn). Shani’s gemstone is Neelam; thus, these two rashis can wear this stone.
Zodiac Birthstones are based on the month the person is born. But is also associated with the zodiacs at the same time. The July birthstone, ruby, is worn by Leo (Singh) Rashi people. The zodiac stone for Leo is also ruby stone because the zodiac sign Leo is ruled by the planet Surya. Manik stone is ruled by the planet Sun, resulting in the energies' compatibility between the gemstone and the Rashi.
Birthstones are considered healing stones for zodiac signs. Amethyst stone, the birthstone for February month is regarded as the healing gemstone that protects the person from negative energy. Also read: Does Wearing Your Birthstone Bring Good Luck
On the contrary, Zodiac gemstones are worn solely aligned to the planet's placement. So, for ill-placed Jupiter, yellow sapphire is a suitable gemstone. No other gemstone can be worn as per the Vedic rules. However, this does not mean that zodiac stones do not play any role in healing properties. They also heal the person mentally, physically, and emotionally.
Read Here: Gemstones and Their Benefits
Zodiac stones are based on the position of celestial bodies. They remain consistent across cultures, meaning that if the Emerald stone is ruled by the planet Budh (Mercury), the relationship between the gemstone and the planet remains the same.
Birthstones by month, on the contrary, carry different meanings in different cultures. They reflect different symbolism and regional preferences. Some birthstones do change with traditional and modern charts. Pearl stone is the birthstone for June in the traditional birth chart, whereas the modern birthstone chart suggests Alexandrite stone to be the June month stone.
The science of zodiac or rashis is yet to be proven. In Vedic astrology, it is believed that there is a connection between the cosmic world and the life events of an individual.
In astrology, there are 12 zodiac signs, each associated with a specific personality trait. It is believed that the planet and stars rule each zodiac sign in the constellation.
When dashas of the particular planet or graha influence the zodiac sign gemstone for the same is worn. So, if you are suffering from the ill effects of the Mars Mahadasha, wearing a Red Coral stone is suggested. Read more about this Mahadasha in our blog: Mars Mahadasha and Remedies
This is a big question people have. They cannot decide which gemstone to wear for what and when. An astrologer is the right person to suggest a stone, but what is the basis for this consideration?
According to Jyotish there are several ways by which gemstones are suggested. The consideration is based on the presence of planets in the houses, their alignment with other grahas, lagna rashi and more.
One can wear zodiac stones only after astrological recommendations. However, birthstones can be worn as per your birth month. There are no specific rules for wearing them. Birthstones by zodiac are lucky if you wear them daily. They are more than beauty and elegance. Zodiac birthstones are considered “gemstones for protection” and healing. Also read: 6 Positive Energy Stones for High Vibration: The Ultimate Guide
Rashi rates are also lucky and should be worn 24/7 for maximum benefits. Read More Here: Do I Have to Wear My Gemstone 24/7 ?. But one should follow certain sets of rules before and after wearing gemstones. Read our blog to know more about what rules one should follow after wearing the Shani ratna.
To conclude, zodiac stones and birthstones are different in many aspects. One should take an astrological consultation before wearing any of these but only buy certified gemstones from a reputed dealer for instant results.
Zodiac stones vs Birthstones: Understand the Key Difference and Significance
January 30th, 2025
