Torah Sources

Gemstones are recorded in many places in the Torah, Gemara and Zohar.

* Gemstones have been mentioned in the book of שְׁמוֹת. The Choshen, was adorned with twelve precious stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes. In addition, the book of שְׁמוֹת also mentions the use of gemstones in the construction of the Mishkan, specifically in the ephod and Choshen. Throughout the Torah, various gemstones are mentioned, including amethyst, onyx, sapphire, and emerald.

(Shemos, Chapter 28)

* A tekuma stone was recognized to protect against miscarriages. This particular stone is known for its protective properties and is often used during pregnancy to guard against miscarriage or complications during childbirth. It is also believed to have a calming effect on both the mother and the developing fetus.

"One may go out on the street on Shabbos wearing a tekuma stone, A woman may do so even if she miscarried before, and even if she is not yet pregnant but worries that she may become pregnant and miscarry."

(Talmud Shabbos 66b)

* It is believed that Avraham wore a special stone around his neck and all sick people who would see it would be healed. (Bava Basra 16b)

Some commentators explain this that Avraham Avinu used the power of crystals and gemstones to heal people.

* According to traditional teachings, the luchos were made of blue sapphire, a symbolic reminder of the sky and the heavens. After Moshe broke the first set, Hashem revealed a large deposit of sapphire under Moshe’s tent. Moshe used some of the stone to carve the second luchos, and was permitted to keep the remainder (Rashi, שְׁמוֹת 34:1).