ISLAMABAD: Gemstones have long been prized as decorative items but a growing number of Pakistanis are using them for healing purposes, with practitioners claiming the gems “radiate” and promote physical and mental wellbeing.
Pakistan has significant gemstone reserves, particularly in the north and northwest, including a variety of high-quality stones such as peridot, aquamarine, topaz, ruby and emerald. Earlier this month, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed support for granting industry status to the country’s gemstone sector, following a 47 percent increase in pearl and gemstone exports to China last year.
However, many stones have other uses and can be used therapeutically or placed on precise points on the body to relieve stress, promote relaxation and promote energy balance within the body.
Scientifically, however, gemstone therapy is still considered pseudoscience, with little to no peer-reviewed research proving the method’s effectiveness.
“When a client comes to me, I analyze their name and numerology to understand their characteristics,” Syed Khurram Abbas Naqvi, a gemstone healer in the capital, told Arab News this week. “I then use this insight to recommend specific gemstones that will amplify strengths and alleviate concerns.”
Naqvi said more and more people are believing in the healing properties of gemstones, claiming that the subtle energies or vibrations emitted by gemstones influence the health and vitality of the wearer. Wearing gemstones enhances the life and functioning of human cells, leading to improved health, better decision-making and overall wellness, he said.
“When we examine agate, we find that it contains silicon dioxide, whereas turquoise is composed of ammonia oxide along with elements such as copper, magnesium, iron, phosphate and CsO3. [caesium ozonide]” Naqvi added.
“The radiation emitted by these stones is believed to enhance the strength of the body. For example, silicon dioxide helps regulate blood pressure, bloodstone may help control blood pressure in men, and opal is said to calm aggression in women.”
“My priority is to provide high quality and pure stones, because their radiating power is stronger and more effective.”
‘Profound impact’
Determining stone authenticity is crucial for businesses that rely on experts to distinguish between real and fake stones.
“Clients seek our certification because of the high financial risk and risk of fraud in the industry,” said Faizan Jamshed, an internationally qualified gemologist who runs his own gem testing lab in the federal capital. “Our rigorous lab testing and certification is essential for insurance and customer confidence.”
He added that the healing properties of gemstones are closely linked to the essence and purity of the gemstone.
“An untrained person might perceive all the stones as the same, but an expert can tell the big differences in value,” he said.
Naqvi added that the “colour, carat, cut and clarity” of the stone are crucial for gem therapy to be effective.
“The more transparent, larger and purer the stone, the stronger its radiating power and the deeper its effect.”
However, while many are skeptical of gemstone therapy, some embrace this treatment, believing that the right stone can work miracles and dramatically change their lives.
Amir Shehzad Haidari, an accountant for a local company, said he had been suffering from low energy levels for years before he started using gem therapy.
“I felt lethargic and unmotivated so I chose to treat myself with gemstones rather than medical help,” he told Arab News. “When I wore the quartz, I felt a surge of energy and peace.”
Muntasir Abbas, a travel agent, said he sought out gem therapy to help ease his depression.
“I was feeling extremely depressed due to family problems,” he says. “After traditional treatments failed to work, a friend recommended gemstone therapy. I was skeptical at first, but decided to give it a try. Within a few months of wearing the recommended stones, I noticed a significant improvement in my emotional state.”
