Moti (pearl): who should wear it, how and when it is avoided

Moti, the pearl, is the stone of the Moon. It is worn for a calm mind, good sleep and emotional balance. It is gentle compared with some stones, but it still needs the right chart.

When it is suggested

• The Moon is the lagna lord, as it is for Kark lagna.
• The Moon is weak, in Vrishchik, or hurt by Rahu, Ketu or Saturn.
• The Moon dasha is running and the Moon is helpful for your chart.
• Worry, overthinking and restlessness are strong, with a Moon that is troubled.

When to avoid it

If the Moon rules a difficult house for you, or sits in the 6th, 8th or 12th house, the pearl may increase the problems. People with Capricorn or Aquarius lagna, where the Moon rules the 7th or 6th, are often advised to be careful. It is also usually avoided with Mercury and Saturn dominant charts.

How it is worn

• In silver, on the little finger or ring finger, on a Monday.
• After a short prayer to Shiva or the Moon.
• Weight and form vary by tradition. Ask your astrologer.

Natural, cultured or fake

Natural pearls are rare and expensive. Most pearls on sale are cultured, which are real pearls grown in farms, and this is fine if you are told. Plastic or glass beads are fakes. A lab certificate and a trusted jeweller matter more here than anywhere.

Pearls are soft and lose shine with perfume, sweat and cleaning agents. Wipe them gently and keep them away from chemicals.