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Retrograde in astrology means moving a planet backward from its own position. It is called Vakri in Hindi and has a great relevance in Indian Jyotish. Vakri planets are powerful, especially if they are Subh (auspicious) planets like Mercury and Jupiter.
A person going through retrograde effects experiences spiritual growth and profound transformation. However, there are some instances where you can experience adverse effects too, but with the help of gemstones, you can get powerful results. In this blog, we will discuss Mercury retrograde and how the emerald stone fits in the astrological balance.
In Vedic astrology, Mercury retrograde refers to the planet's backward motion. However, visually, the planets do not move backward in the sky; they appear to. In astrology, this movement has a special relevance in an individual's life. Positive and negative effects of Mercury retrograde depend upon the placement of the planet in your birthchart. In Jyotish, retrograde does not always mean bad. It simply means a review phase in which past issues are brought back for correction.
Also Read: Mahadasha vs Antardasha vs Transits: Which One Actually Controls Your Destiny?
It is believed that the process of retrograde involves the vakri graha being in the same house but moving backwards. The retrograde planet gives results for its own house as well as the preceding house. For instance, if Vakri Budh is in Makar rashi, it will also provide results for Dhanu rashi, preceding it. Mercury retrograde effects do not necessarily mean bad results; it will stabilise many life aspects.
Some common issues are:
If you are going through the Vakri Budh phase and your planet is well placed, you will succeed, but the process will be slow. The effects are as follows:
Yes, you can buy a Jyotish gemstone during Mercury (Budh) retrograde. Buying is not restricted. When Mercury is in retrograde, wearing an emerald ring is said to be beneficial. It generally takes three weeks to end Mercury retrograde. Read More: Rituals for Wearing an Emerald (Panna) Gemstone
The best approach is:
During retrograde, not all the zodiacs have to be impacted. For instance, during Mercury retrograde 2025, zodiac signs such as Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius, Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces were impacted.
Gemini – Since Budh is the ruling planet, this sign is highly affected if the planet is weak in the birth chart. Virgo – Work stress, planning issues, and health anxiety
Aries – Speaking without thinking and making decision mistakes
Cancer – Emotional confusion and family misunderstanding
Aquarius – Technology issues and disturbed schedules
Sagittarius-Mercury retrograde. Sagittarius can bring mixed results as Jupiter (the ruling planet of Sagittarius) is not a friendly planet for Budh. It is advisable to wear a gemstone only after an astrological consultation.
Read More: Birthstone for Sagittarius: Meaning & Lucky Stones
Mercury Retrograde in birthchart slows down your efforts and benefits. Wearing a gemstone compatible with the ruling planet’s energy is highly beneficial. For Mercury Retrograde, wear only panna ratna. You can also wear it in combination with other planets.
For instance, if Surya is placed with Budh and there is a strong Budhayitav yoga in your birth chart, but due to vakri Budh, you are not able to derive the desired benefits of the yoga, then you can wear a ruby stone along with a panna. Read More: Can I Wear Panna With Ruby?
Other Tips
Mercury retrograde is not negative every time. This is the phase when one experiences delays across many aspects of life, especially in marriage, jobs, and businesses. Wearing a gemstone for the same can bring good results. If you are looking for a Mercury retrograde gemstone, buy a certified emerald stone only from Navratan.
