According to ancient gnomish folklore, the gem goddess Berylie is believed to be the deity responsible for lacing the earth's crust with countless deposits of precious gemstones of every size and hue. The gnomes have always had a special fondness for gems and jewelry and finding a rich mine of precious stones is seen as a sign of great favor from the goddess.
It was the earliest of gnome sages that began to devle into gemlore and the hidden properties of gemstones. Gnomes, as well as other species, have widely believed that gems possess innate magic that can be tapped and utilized by any who understand the secrets. Gnomes of course attribute this power to their goddess Berylie. Berylite clerics profess that when gems were created by the Glorystone goddess, she breathed a blessing into each one that could be used to protect her children from the dangers of the world.
Using these hidden powers, gemstones can be used in a variety of magical amulets and talismans to further augment their powers. Below is a brief listing of some of the more common gemstones and their magical attributes.
Agate- protects vision
Amber- improves eyesight, protects against deafness
Amethyst- protects against drunkeness
Carnelian- protects the soul or spirit in the afterlife on its journey to the final destination
Cat's Eye- protects against hidden enemies or mysterious dangers
Chrysolite- protects against nightmares
Coral- stops bleeding; aids in digestion
Diamond- promotes wealth and fame; removes evil and fearful thoughts; grants peace of mind
Emerald- promotes general healing and good welfare; aids memory; said to increase intelligence
Garnet- possesses aspects of both good and evil; guides the lost back to safety; helps fend off evil spirits; protects against poison
Hematite- cures maddness and insanity; provides protection during battle
Jasper- eases pain during childbirth; prevents drowning; protects against scorpion bites; calls forth rain; guards against dangers of the night
Lapis Lazuli- known as the "stone of awareness"; aids in accessing intuition and the psyche; potent psionic applifier
Malachite- known as the "stone of transformation"; aids in transitional periods; clarifies emotions; clears the path leading up to a goal
Moonstone- known as the "stone of beginnings"; lessens the effects of menopause in women; aids in understanding of emotions and intuition
Obsidian- a protective stone; resists energy drain
Opal- grants protection and general harmony
Pearl- provides longevity; protects against evil; increases constitution and intelligence
Pyrite- repels negative energy; protects against disease
Rose Quartz- known as the "stone of the heart"; grants peace and calm to relationships; heals the heart; brings awareness and appreciation for the beauty of fine arts
Ruby- aids rulership; grants fame and elevated social status
Sapphire- aids in restoring lost wealth and property; grants stamina and longevity; aids in fertility
Topaz- increases wealth; provides security
Turquoise- protects against accidents; cures diseases of the head and heart; heals cataracts; protects the home against evil spirits when placed near the door
Zircon- protects against misfortune and bad luck; speeds the path to success