Hessonite - The Jyotish Gemstone of Rahu
According to the text of Jatakatatva, hessonite is the jyotish gemstone of Rahu (Caput Dreconis or Dragon's Head). Rahu makes its natives mutinous, detrimental, reckless and secretive. Rahu is shown as a disembodied head riding a chariot and shouting obscenities. The chariot is drawn by a tiger, representing the mind wandering in the forest of desires. Rahu is neutral, active and disruptive. He disturbs the psychological make-up of the natives and creates confusion in their minds.
The dasha of Rahu runs for a period of 18 years where the native is tested, rewarded or punished as per one's Karma. In order to reduce the malefic effects of this planet, Hessonite gem is recommended. The gem should be consecrated and energized with Rahu mantras. Shodashopachar Puja or the 16 step rituals have to be performed as a manner of offering respect/ maryada to the planetary deity before being worn by the native. As a ring it should be worn on the middle finger, which is the finger for Saturn or Shani Dev as Rahu is regarded as similar to Saturn in its effect. If worn as a talisman touching the thymus gland area its efficacies are higher.
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Different Names of Hessonite Gemstone
The popular names of a Hessonite are Gomedak, Gomed, Gomedh, Pingasphatik, Tamomani, Rahuratna, Tranavar. In English it is known as Cinnamon-Stone because of its historic connection with the Spice producing country of Sri Lanka. In Chinese Pissi and in Arabic it is known as Hazar Yamani.
Hessonite Gemstone - Chemistry
Hessonite is a variety of Grossularite Garnet. It's color ranges from a warm brownish yellow, brownish orange to brownish red. A good quality Hessonite, is one that reflects the color of the urine of a cow, that is, having a nice honey color. The most excellent varieties of this gem come from the Island country of Sri Lanka. They are called Ceyloni Hessonites.
Sources of Hessonite Gemstones
- Brazil
- Canada
- Madagascar
- Mexico
- Sri Lanka
- Tanzania
- US
Hessonite Stone Benefits Hessonite Garnet Healing Properties
Hessonite Gemstone - Scientific Gemological Data
Hardness & Toughness:
| Hardness | 7 to 7 1/2 on Mohs scale |
| Toughness | Fair to good |
| Specific Gravity | 4.65 to 4.71 |
| Refractive Index | 1.93 to 1.98 |
Stability:
| Environmental Factor | Reaction |
|---|---|
| Heat | Abrupt temperature change likely to cause fracturing |
| Light | Stable |
| Chemicals | Attacked by hydrofluoric acid |
Hessonite Care and Cleaning
| Type of Cleaning | Advisability |
|---|---|
| Ultrasonic cleaning | Usually safe, unless liquid inclusions are present |
| Steam cleaning | Never |
| Warm, soapy water | Safe |