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Navaratnas, meaning "nine jewels" in Sanskrit, refers to a group of eight mythical beings in Hindu mythology. These beings are not a single unified entity but rather a collection of distinct divine or semi-divine figures, often associated with specific domains or powers. The concept of Navaratnas is found in various Hindu scriptures and traditions, though the exact composition and significance can vary.

One common interpretation of the Navaratnas connects them to the nine planets, the grahas, which play a significant role in Vedic astrology. In this context, each jewel is believed to represent and govern a specific planet, influencing human destiny and cosmic order. The specific gems associated with each planet are traditionally amethyst for Saturn, sapphire for Uranus, emerald for Mercury, ruby for the Sun, diamond for Venus, pearl for the Moon, coral for Mars, topaz for Jupiter, and cat's eye for Ketu (a lunar node).

Another understanding of Navaratnas pertains to a group of nine exceptionally talented individuals in a particular field, often in a royal court or during a golden age of art and literature. For instance, the court of Emperor Vikramaditya of Ujjain is famously said to have been adorned by the Navaratnas, including renowned poets and scholars like Kalidasa. Similarly, the court of the Vijayanagara king Krishnadevaraya also boasted of its own Navaratnas, celebrated for their contributions to literature and art. The term signifies a collection of the most precious and outstanding individuals, embodying excellence and brilliance.