GEM: A natural pearl, coral, shell, seed, tooth, or mineral that is valued for its durability, rarity, portability, beauty, perfection or astrological metaphysical influence.

GEMOLOGY: The study of naturally occurring gems.

PLANETARY GEMOLOGY: (Ratna-vijnana or Ratna-para-vidya) Ancient Vedic science of the relationship between 9 (categories of) GEMS and 9 (categories of ) PLANETS recognized as most important in sidereal astrology and ayurveda. Based on the "Navaratna" philosophy of Vedic birthstones.

PLANETARY GEMOLOGIST (PG): A practitioner who is BOTH a Certified Gemologist as well as being a Planetary Gem Advisor (PGA) qualified to determine gem choosing based on Jyotish (Vedic Astrology).

The "Graha-anukul ratna-visheshajna parishad" or Planetary Gemologists Association (PGA), is a necessary regulatory and research group formed to help unite all genuine Planetary Gemologists around the world. 

Purpose of the Planetary Gemologists Association is fourfold:

1) To bring order and positive worldwide attention to the ancient science of Planetary Gemology, one of the 64 Asian arts that incorporate Vedic (sidereal) astrology, Ayurveda, and elite mineralogy.

2) To establish high standards of professionalism and expertise as requirements for membership, which will serve as a guarantee of  integrity and excellence to the public.

3) To maintain a forum for deliberation into the subtle mysteries of "Planetary Gemology," and to present these findings and conclusions by publishing an annual Journal named the "Journal of the Planetary Gemologists Association."

4) To serve as a bona fide Institute of Planetary Gemology that provides "Socially Responsible Information" (SRI) leading to a final exam for qualification as a PGA (Planetary Gem Advisor). NOTE: A Planetary Gemologist (PG) is a certified PGA who is also a certified Gemologist. PG and PGA Diplomas will be awarded to successful applicants. Click the sample diploma if you are ready to take the PGA - TEST