Belief in talismans has lived in the human soul for centuries. Amulets have been revered and ridiculed by turns, yet they have survived to the present day. A special place among them belongs to the stones and minerals that astrological tradition has matched to the character of each sign of the zodiac. In this article we look at where the belief in talismans came from and which stones are assigned to each sign.
A short history of talismans
The cult of talismans goes back to the days when early humans adorned their arms and chests with the fangs and claws of predators threaded on a leather thong, believing that the animal’s strength would pass to them. Over time, stones, metals and jewellery made from them took over the role of amulets. Culture changed the forms talismans took, but it never displaced them.
In the last century talismans became ubiquitous and, at the same time, lost some of their significance – they are often treated as mascots and ornaments. Many people, however, still attach deep meaning to them. Even the most materialistic approach to life does not free us from superstitions rooted deep in the subconscious.
Different spiritual traditions have developed their own protective objects: medallions, scapulars, holy pictures, pendants and signs engraved in metal. This shows that the belief in talismans does not fade – only its outward forms and names change.
At the heart of this belief is the conviction that certain objects radiate a special energy or channel planetary influences that can protect against misfortune and encourage prosperity. People involved in esotericism claim that symbols used wisely and respectfully have the power to influence our lives. Numbers belong to this group too, regarded as symbols of the relationships between forces on the metaphysical plane. Tradition also says that you can make a talisman yourself – but only at the right time and from the right materials.
Aries
Aries is ruled by Mars, and its colour is red. The right stones for this sign are ruby, garnet and bloodstone. For Aries who would like to temper their fiery nature a little, tradition recommends carnelian. The traditional birthstone of Aries is the diamond, a symbol of pure energy.
Taurus
Taurus loves large, clear, beautifully cut stones. Lapis lazuli is considered the best gem for this sign. The traditional birthstone of Taurus, however, is the emerald, which symbolises both the Earth element and the planet Venus.
Gemini
Gemini adores change and variety. Its zodiac stone is agate, which according to tradition encourages truthfulness as well as precise, fluent speech. Another good stone for Gemini is fluorite, associated with a quick, agile mind.
Cancer
Cancer, whose planet is the Moon, should keep a moonstone close – it is believed to protect against other people’s negative emotions. Cancer’s second important stone is sapphire. Chalcedony, according to tradition, soothes the emotions and chases away sadness.
Leo
Leo is like fire, and fire goes with ruby. Leos should also wear gold, which is linked with their planet, the Sun. Carnelian is said to lend courage and eloquence, and amber to sustain Leo’s vital energy.
Virgo
Virgo feels most at ease with agate – especially green agate. Another stone for Virgo is aventurine, which according to tradition sharpens perception.
Libra
Libra’s birthstone is opal, linked with its planet, Venus. Kunzite is also excellent for Libra, as it is considered a stone that attracts love.
Scorpio
Scorpio should carry carnelian, garnet, black tourmaline or haematite. Scorpio’s modern ruling planet is Pluto – a symbol of power and transformation – and dark, intense stones capture its energy well.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius loves to gain knowledge, so the ideal stone for this sign is sodalite, which is said to support learning and passing knowledge on to others. Amethyst is a good choice too, and topazes, according to tradition, bring Sagittarians luck.
Capricorn
Capricorn has a tough character, so dark stones such as onyx, haematite and obsidian suit it. Malachite is also a good choice, as it is said to attract success, including in business.
Aquarius
Aquarius’s birthstone is amethyst. Aventurine is said to clear the mind and make communication easier, while quartz is considered the best stone for supporting mental work.
Pisces
The birthstone of Pisces is amethyst. Tradition also recommends pink crystals, which are said to lift the mood and encourage sober judgement.
A stone as a personal symbol
It is worth treating zodiac stones as personal symbols and beautiful keepsakes that remind you of your strengths and intentions. Different sources give different lists, so when choosing, it is best to be guided by your own taste and intuition as well.
First published (Polish original): 21 November 2010. Written by astrologers and esoteric specialists working with our editorial team; edited and translated for HOROSCOP.SPACE. © All rights reserved.