Agate
Agate, called the "stone of balance," may soothe emotions and promote a oneness with nature. According to Snopes, people have believed the gem offers protection against the evil eye -- a look that could inflict injury or bad luck on its recipient -- and is also believed to cure bites, stings and bad eyesight. In addition, people have believed that wearing agate brings love and athletic success to the wearer. Agate is most common in Brazil and Uruguay, and is formed in volcanic rock.
Turquoise
Highly revered by Native Americans, the blue-green gem is thought to absorb negative energy and dissipate bad feelings between the giver and recipient.
Sapphire
Sapphires, among the hardest, rarest and most precious gemstones, come in cornflower blue, deep blue, pink and other colors. In the 18th century, sapphires were used to test a woman's virtue, and an owner's stone would allegedly change color when his wife had been unfaithful. Some believe sapphires bring their owners in favor with a higher power.
Ruby
Like sapphires, rubies are derived from the mineral corundum, which may explain some of their similar "powers." Rubies may signal health problems by changing color, and may prevent impure thoughts and resolve conflicts. According to ancient Burmese tradition, rubies, when inserted into the body, make the wearer invulnerable to harm.
Emerald
Emeralds have several alleged health benefits; they may ease the pain of childbirth, cure snake bites, treat dysentery and epilepsy, and some even believe these stones heal the blind, according to Snopes. They may have aphrodisiac properties, and some magicians used polished, round emeralds to predict events.
Pearl
Pearls are only considered good luck when given to babies, according to Snopes. Pearls may help women conceive and help their depression.
Jade
Chinese tradition indicates that jade bangles promote wealth and frugality. Jade may relieve anxiety and fear. According to Chinese Buddhist belief, smooth jade can harmonize nature and spirits, and is often used in tombs.
Amethyst
Amethyst may ease the mind and protect against obsessive behavior and overindulgence in food and drink. Wicca practitioners have used amethyst amulets, combined with silver, to ward off negative energies.
Carnelian
Carnelian, a reddish stone found in Scotland, the United States, Germany, South America and Middle Eastern deserts, may protect the wearer against negative emotions such as anger, jealousy and fear.