For thousands of years people have been captivated by horoscopes, astrology, star signs, birth signs, and we have long looked to the stars for answers to our questions. However, for every person that truly believes in the power of astrology, there are five other people who doubt and criticize astrology, and its scientific backing.

I personally believe that the stars can reveal something about our personalities and the future, as my horoscope is usually shockingly accurate. However, the lack or reputable results or scientific backing to its method makes astrology a highly criticized process, giving it a reputation as a space filler in magazines that you read in line at the supermarket.

There have been certain events that I have experienced throughout my life that make me believe that astrology is not just a supernatural hoax. I read my horoscope online everyday, and more often than not, my horoscope is accurate to some level.

I know a lot of people who check their current horoscopes daily in the news paper. Many now receive free daily horoscopes online, but I also know some people who pay to have their complete horoscope determined everyday. Though I would never consider paying for my horoscope, they swear that a complete horoscope is always almost completely accurate.

Most people take gemstones at nominal value, such as gemstone bead jewellery; i.e., jewellery to put on merely for aesthetic purposes. But gems are also considered to have several medicinal properties; for example (depending on the stone) the ability to encourage confidence, encourage positivity, improve concentration, relieve anxiety and headaches, and help calm the mind.

We will focus on a small selection of gems and their claimed curing powers. A disclaimer before we go any further : The following is based on a collective belief, and there can be no guarantee as to the effectiveness of such gemstones and their claimed recuperative properties.

Amazonite
This gem improves self-assurance and gives hope to the person wearing the gemstone.

Amethyst
Amethyst calms the mind and aids increased harmony and tranquility. It cuts down self-destructive propensities and boosts healing. Amethyst also gives honesty and wisdom on those who wear it.

Haematite
A powerful stone that bestows improves willpower and strength. Effective in harmonizing the body and spirit. A very grounding gemstone which keeps down anxiety and is said to help insomnia.

Sodalite
Increases the ability to communicate and to empathise with other individuals. Effective for the development of spirituality and intuition.

The above-mentioned gemstones are merely a tiny selection of stones that are claimed to have remedial powers. The only pragmatic way to find out if these stones can work for you is to wear them if you suffer from an ailment that a stone is believed to help relieve.