Flashing a diamond engagement ring may be impressive, but without the knowledge of gemstone energy the result can be unintended misfortune, according to an astrologer.

He says that an expert trained in the combined sciences of gemology and astrology can determine who can wear certain gems for positive effects.

Subtle yet powerful, a diamond engagement ring on a person's finger can alter life patterns and forces.

The fiery brilliance of diamonds has long been associated with the virtues of love and devotion, but beauty is only one facet of this gem. The effects of wearing a diamond engagement ring can also be chaos and disharmony, says Howard Beckman of Balaji Natural Gems in New Mexico.

"Diamonds emit an electromagnetic field that interacts with the energy field of the person wearing it. Certain diamonds should not be worn by anyone and certain people should never wear diamonds," he says.

Of the estimated 2.4 million couples who get married in the United States every year, over 95% of engagement rings and 75% of wedding rings are diamonds, says Howard.

Giving a diamond ring for marriage is a tradition that began in 1477 with Archduke Maximilian of Austria and Mary of Burgundy and now divorce rates are higher than ever before, he points out. Coincidence or not?

Gem therapy, or planetary gemology, dates back to ancient Indian, Greek, Egyptian, and Jewish cultures. Gems were worn for the potencies they imparted, not for their monetary value.

"Planetary gemology comes from the ancient Vedic (Hindu) system of astrology based on the fixed positions of stars and constellations. This system is very precise in determining strengths and weaknesses and the direction of one's destiny," Howard says.

Consulting an expert before choosing a gemstone can determine personal energy patterns and how to harmonize them with gemstone energies," he says.

Howard says he's one of the few people in the world today who has been given the title of "Planetary Gemologist", awarded him by the Planetary Gemological Association in Bangkok, Thailand.

He is said to be recognized as the sole gemologist in the U.S. who is also expert in the field of vedic astrology and gem therapy.

Howard is the author of three books and a CD on these subjects and travels frequently for lectures and workshops. He is president of the Vedic Cultural Fellowship in Pecos, New Mexico, where he also has a thriving consultation practice.

So, if you're buying a diamond engagement ring, should you consult an astrologer first? Or does this sound like a load of rubbish? You'll have to decide.