Pukhraj (yellow sapphire): who should wear it, how and what to check

Pukhraj, the yellow sapphire, is the stone of Jupiter. It is worn for wisdom, luck, marriage and children. It is also one of the most expensive stones, so it is worth knowing what to check before you buy.

When astrologers suggest it

• Jupiter is the lagna lord, or the lord of the 5th or 9th house.
• Jupiter is weak or badly placed but is a friend of the chart.
• The Jupiter dasha is running or about to begin, and Jupiter is a helpful planet for you.
• Marriage, children or higher education are held up and Jupiter is connected to them.

When it is avoided

If Jupiter rules the 6th, 8th or 12th house in your chart, or is an enemy of the lagna lord, the stone can add the wrong kind of strength. If Jupiter is already strong and well placed, it may not be needed. People whose charts lean on Mercury or Venus are often advised to be careful.

How it is worn

• Traditionally on the index finger of the right hand, set in gold.
• On a Thursday morning in the bright half of the month, after a short prayer.
• The weight and the style vary by tradition. Ask your astrologer for the exact advice.

Choosing a good stone

Look for a natural, untreated stone with a clear lab report. Heated stones are common and should be declared. Citrine and other lookalikes are cheaper but are not the same, so a very low price is a warning.

Wear it for a few weeks and watch your sleep, mood and decisions. If you feel worse and not better, take it off and speak to your astrologer.