Significance of Precious stone
Synonyms: Jewel, Gem, Crystal, Treasure, Precious gem, Mineral
In Dutch: Kostbare steen; In Finnish: Jalokivi; In Spanish: Piedra preciosa; In German: Edelstein; In Malay: Batu permata; In Swedish: Ädelsten; In French: Pierre précieuse; In Italian: Pietra preziosa; In Portugese: Pedra preciosa; In Polish: Kamień szlachetny
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Precious stone'
In Buddhism, "Precious stone" encompasses diverse meanings: alluring treasures, valuable offerings, miraculous signs, unsuitable materials, gifts, symbolic materials, lost and found items, and metaphors for actions. It also signifies spiritual wealth, architectural elements, and the Buddha's ability to fulfill desires.
From: Maha Buddhavamsa—The Great Chronicle of Buddhas
(1) Precious stones, along with gold and silver, were used to finish the posts, beams, rafters, roof-trusses, purlim, trellis-work, door-leaves, and roofing tiles of the portico.[1] (2) Precious stones are valuable gems and jewels, which the Buddha initially refused to enter due to concerns about them.[2] (3) These relics were enshrined in the cetiya and people from all over Jambudipa completed the construction by decorating it with these.[3] (4) Valuable materials such as rubies and pearls that King Bimbisara expressed a desire to hear about from King Pukkusati.[4] (5) Materials requested by Sakka for the construction of the lake's surrounds and features.[5]
From: Mahavamsa
(1) The gems including sapphire, beryl, and ruby, brought to king Devanampiyatissa as gifts.[6] (2) Valuable gems found near Sumanavapi, which were shown to the king as part of the locally available resources.[7]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) A valuable gem which serves as a metaphor in the verse illustrating the destructive nature of evil actions.[8] (2) A valuable item belonging to the royal household that was lost but later returned, contributing to the king's happiness.[9]
From: Jataka tales [English], Volume 1-6
(1) A reference in Asitabhu’s flight, symbolizing beauty and elevation, contrasting her earthly life.[10]
From: Dhammapada (translated from the Pali)
(1) This is one example of the strong fetters, which wise people do not call strong but are actually a significant attachment that is difficult to undo.[11]
From: Mahavastu (great story)
(1) Refers to adornments found on a couch and in the environment, signifying wealth, beauty, and luxury.[12] (2) The island was rich in precious stones, surrounded by the tossing waves of the sea.[13] (3) Materials from which bowls were made and which the Buddha deemed unsuitable for use.[14] (4) A valuable gem embedded in the king's necklace that is described to hold images of the four great continents.[15] (5) The alluring treasures that the Sirens possess and offer to the merchants, further enticing them.[16]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) These are the materials that make up the great stupa that the Bhagavat opened to reveal the preserved body of Prabhutaratna.[17] (2) Symbolizes the Buddha’s ability to fulfill desires automatically, reflecting his profound ability to meet the needs of devotees.[18] (3) Materials used by the Buddha to create the thousand-petalled lotuses, symbolizing the purity and value of the teachings.[19] (4) Valuable gems that were lost when the merchants' ship was wrecked.[20]
From: Blue Annals (deb-ther sngon-po)
(1) Rosaries made of valuable stones, depicted on ma gcig's body, indicative of her spiritual significance.[21] (2) A miraculous sign that emerged through kun spangs pa's practice, highlighting the sacred nature of his meditations.[22] (3) Valuable and often rare gems that are incorporated into the image for embellishment and significance.[23] (4) Symbolic offerings representing spiritual wealth, observed in the visions experienced by rig ‘dzin ku mA ra.[24] (5) Materials used in the construction of caityas by Master spyan snga, emphasizing the significance of beauty and sanctity in Buddhist architecture.[25]
From: Hualin International Journal of Buddhist Studies
(1) These are materials that are used as a comparison for the beetle wings, as they are sometimes considered as substitutes for them, fulfilling a decorative function and potentially having religious significance.[26]
Hindu concept of 'Precious stone'
In Hinduism, "Precious stone" symbolizes multifaceted concepts. It represents material wealth, luxury, and status, used in decoration and rituals. Beyond material value, it signifies purity, knowledge, and spiritual refinement, reflecting beauty, rarity, and inherent power.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Griffith)
(1) Each fairest precious stone adorned the form of Majestic Ocean, contributing to its wondrous appearance and the chain about his neck.[27] (2) The palace was decorated with gold and precious stones, indicating its luxurious and valuable nature.[28] (3) This is a valuable rock that is present in the land, adding to its beauty and value.[29] (4) The gem that Sita wished to convey to Rama, symbolizing their bond.[30] (5) Valuable and beautiful stones used for decoration, highlighting the opulence of the throne.[31]
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) A symbol that represents true value and knowledge.[32] (2) Gems that adorn the peak of Mount Meru, contributing to its magnificent appearance.[33] (3) A metaphor for the mind which, through experience and lesson, is polished and refined towards clarity and reasoning.[34] (4) A valuable gem that the character sought, symbolizing true wealth and knowledge.[35] (5) Symbolic elements within the world suggested to add beauty and value, likened to the pillars supporting an expansive structure.[36]
From: Mahabharata (English)
(1) Precious stones, like other property, would be subject to appropriation by wicked men if the king failed to protect.[37] (2) Valuable minerals and gems that can be found on the mountain Meru.[38] (3) Valuable gems often used in architecture or decoration, indicative of wealth.[39] (4) Refers to valuable gemstones used as adornments in the Danavas' utensils and furniture.[40] (5) The materials that constitute the construction of Yudhishthira's esteemed assembly room, signifying its brilliance and opulence.[41]
From: Ramayana of Valmiki (Shastri)
(1) Valuable gems that contribute to the decoration and magnificence of the city.[42] (2) Valuable gems scattered throughout the palace, representing wealth and luxury.[43]
From: Vishnu Purana
(1) Gemstones valued for their beauty and rarity, often worn as adornments.[44] (2) Another subject discussed in the Garuda Purana, likely regarding their significance or uses.[45]
From: Garuda Purana
(1) Precious stones are valuable gems whose properties and characteristics are discussed in the provided text, and they have a high value.[46] (2) Natural gemstones that can be cleansed using simple washing with water.[47]
From: Markandeya Purana
(1) Natural gems found abundantly in the Northern Kurus, adding to the richness of the land.[48]
From: Harivamsha Purana
(1) Valuable gems used for decoration, enhancing the opulence of the surroundings.[49]
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) They shall be wholly surrendered to the king, emphasizing the monarch's claim to valuable resources.[50] (2) Merchants dealing in gold, silver, diamonds, precious stones, pearls, coral, horses, and elephants shall pay 50 karas.[51] (3) Valuable gemstones, such as diamonds and pearls, that the goldsmith ought to have a thorough knowledge of for proper handling and valuation.[52] (4) Valuable stones such as diamonds and pearls, associated with toll fees.[53] (5) Valuable items that are excluded from the calculation of the eldest son's additional share.[54]
From: Hitopadesha (English translation)
(1) Valuable gemstones that adorned the golden couch in the palace.[55]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) Valuable gemstones that experts assess for their genuineness, which cannot be easily communicated or understood by others.[56] (2) A valuable gem or mineral that is recognized for its worth, beauty, and rarity.[57] (3) An example given of a non-fixed manifestor that can reveal certain properties without being restricted, similar to other non-fixed manifestors like lamps or stars.[58] (4) A precious stone is a valuable gem that can appear to shake when placed in clear shaking water, creating an illusion of movement.[59] (5) A gemstone that displays a scintillating lustre, making it appear to be moving when it is actually still.[60]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) Valuable minerals or gems including pearls and corals, which are subject to specific legal repercussions when stolen.[61] (2) Valuable items such as coral that are included in the category of things weighed by scales, specifically mentioned as being equal in value to gold and silver.[62] (3) Refers to valuable gemstones that are considered clean regardless of their origins, even from low-born individuals.[63]
From: Brihat Samhita
(1) Valuable gemstones that may be acquired as a result of favorable astrological conditions related to wearing new clothes.[64] (2) Valuable items forecasted for a notable profit when held and sold correctly.[65] (3) Items included in the astronomical rituals that symbolize purity and wealth.[66]
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) These are materials, like metals and minerals, used for the preparation of a specific formulation, and the diversity in the quantum of heat applied may be due to the nature of these materials.[67]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) A regimen under Dincharya that involves the utilization of these and metals as gems, otherwise known as Ratna and Abhushana dharana.[68]
From: Brihad Bhagavatamrita (commentary)
(1) Examples of objects that, along with mantras, possess the inherent power to generate things, highlighting their enduring nature.[69]
From: Bhajana-Rahasya
(1) Jewels used by Giri-Govardhana for decoration, enhancing the aesthetic beauty of the surroundings for Krishna.[70]
From: Harsha-charita
(1) Valuable gems that represent wealth and status, often used in ceremonial contexts.[71]
From: Katha Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) Valuable and rare minerals or gems, often considered important indicators of wealth.[72] (2) Valuable gemstones that hold beauty and rarity, symbolizing luxury and significance in offerings.[73]
From: Rasa Jala Nidhi, vol 3: Metals, Gems and other substances
(1) Gems that are considered valuable and are categorized based on their qualities.[74]
From: Manasara (English translation)
(1) Gold altars should be made for all the phalli made of jewels.[75]
Jain concept of 'Precious stone'
In Jainism, "Precious stone" can be interpreted as valuable materials like jewels used in shrines, reflecting the sacredness of the structure and its contents. These stones also enhance the beauty and uniqueness of mountains, symbolizing their significance.
From: Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Caritra
(1) The text refers to precious stones used in the construction of the shrine, emphasizing the value and significance of the structure and the objects within.[76] (2) Materials used to construct the shrine made by Jahnu, symbolizing its sacredness and value.[77]
From: Tattvartha Sutra (with commentary)
(1) The jewels embedded in the mountains that add to their beauty and distinctiveness.[78]
From: Kalpa-sutra (Lives of the Jinas)
(1) Precious stones are used to decorate various items, such as the chair of state and the bathing-house, signifying wealth and importance.[79]
The concept of Precious stone in local and regional sources
"Precious stone" encompasses valuable gems and materials, symbolizing wealth, beauty, and cultural significance. It appears in historical contexts, representing opulence, noble qualities, and regional trade, including imitation practices and spiritual symbolism.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) Yatiub-bin. Laith destroyed man Buddha statues in Bamiyan and possibly plucked the precious stones off the two giant Buddhas.[80] (2) The speaker considers the other to be this, a valuable and cherished element in their life.[81] (3) The valuable decorative elements that adorned the casket intended for Alexander, highlighting its richness.[82] (4) Valuable gemstones that are often used in adornments and jewelry.[83] (5) Valuable gems that have been historically significant in India, often mentioned in ancient texts for their diverse uses.[84]
From: Bhaktavijaya: Stories of Indian Saints
(1) Valuable stones achieved through Krishna's influence, indicating a change from the ordinary to the extraordinary.[85] (2) Valuable and cherished materials that symbolize wealth and beauty, presented in various metaphors within the text.[86]
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) The text references various precious stones, particularly beryls, and describes processes that imitate these valuable items to create replicas, suggesting an interest in producing imitations.[87]
From: Buddhist records of the Western world (Xuanzang)
(1) They never fail to make their offerings of gems and "precious stones", indicating the presentation of valuable items as acts of devotion, which symbolizes wealth and respect.[88] (2) A necklace of precious stones and jewels was placed above the breast of the figure, where the work was unfinished, and a diadem of encircling gems was placed on the head.[89] (3) The western women possess a large quantity of gems and precious stones, which they exchange in Fo-lin, highlighting their wealth and trading practices.[90] (4) A valuable gem featured in the tooth-stupa of Buddha, visible from afar at night.[91] (5) A variety of valuable stones collected from the islands of the sea, distinguished by different names.[92]
From: Village Folk-tales of Ceylon (Sri Lanka), vol. 1-3
(1) Decorative items used by the girl to adorn the hat she crafted in the sewing shop.[93]
From: The travels of Fa-Hian (400 A.D.)
(1) Valuable materials produced on smaller landmasses that surround a larger one, along with pearls, with all depending on the great island.[94]
The concept of Precious stone in scientific sources
Precious stones, within the context of Ayurvedic medicine, encompass both semiprecious and precious minerals. These stones, including gems, are believed to possess healing properties. Proper utilization of these stones is key to harnessing their therapeutic benefits, as per Ayurvedic practices.
From: Sustainability Journal (MDPI)
(1) It refers to rare and valuable minerals such as diamonds, rubies, and sapphires, often used in jewelry and decorative items.[95]
Classical concept of 'Precious stone'
From: The Literature of the Ancient Egyptians
(1) "Precious stones" were used in the holy necklaces and pectorals of the great sanctuary, highlighting their value and importance in religious contexts.[96] (2) Materials, along with gold, silver, lapis-lazuli, and copper, that were presented as gifts to show fealty.[97] (3) Precious stones, gold, silver, copper, iron, lapis-lazuli, emerald, crystal, ruby, alabaster, mother-of-emerald, and seeds of plants that are used in making incense are found here.[98]
From: Legends Of The Gods
(1) Precious stones, metals, four-footed beasts, feathered fowl, and the fish, and every thing whereon they live is lead to each god.[99] (2) Precious stones were assessed by an inspector, along with metals, for their value to be devoted to the service of Khnemu in Elephantine.[100]
From: Ancient Egypt the Light of the World
(1) Featured the emerald mountain, the diamond mountain, the pearl mountain, the mountain of gold, the lotus mountain, with the jewel of the polestar at the centre or 'in the lotus.'[101] (2) The precious stones and necklace are sacred to Hathor, the goddess of beauty, and the treasure snatched at by the foster-brother of Maelduin, which cost him his life, was the magical necklace.[102]
From: The Book of the Dead
(1) These are materials used to inlay a golden figure of the soul, suggesting value, beauty, and significance in a ritualistic context.[103] (2) Round his neck is a deep collar of precious stones worn by Ani as he kneels before Osiris.[104]
From: Aesop's Fables (English translation)
(1) A valuable gem that the rooster discovers while searching for food, but he believes its value is irrelevant to his needs and those of his hens.[105]