Ruby is the red variety of the corundum family of minerals. Along with diamonds, emeralds and sapphires, it is one of the four so-called “precious stones”. For a long time, it was the symbol of love and passion, before the diamond finally stole the show. For centuries, until the development of modern gemology and its use in ruby jewelry, its brilliant red reflections made it the victim of confusion with garnet or red spinel.
Ruby properties
- Type: Precious stone
- Color: Pinkish red to purple, sometimes with purple or orange undertones
- Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale
- Density: 3.97 to 4.05
- Family: Corundum
- Birthstone: July
- Zodiac sign: Leo in 1st decan and Cancer in 2nd and 3rd decans
- Events: 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries
History of the ruby
The name “Ruby” comes from the Latin “Rubeus”, which is the etymological root of “Red”. In ancient times, all red stones were mistakenly called “rubies”. Its color is given by the presence and content of chromium. Unlike sapphire, which owes its blue color to iron and titanium.
The first extractions of these gems took place in the deposits of Sri Lanka. The story of the ruby is equal to its color, which is that of passion.
How to recognize a ruby?
You may be surprised to learn that rubies are actually red sapphires. In fact, ruby is a precious stone belonging to the corundum family, the scientific name for sapphire. Its rarity, however, makes it more sought-after than sapphires themselves. While it’s renowned for its flamboyant red color, there are also rubies in pink, orange, purple and even violet.
Characterized by an unparalleled fluorescence when exposed to daylight, it literally glows with a thousand lights. Its incomparable brilliance and color have made it one of the world’s most coveted and expensive gems. Right up there with diamonds and emeralds. Extremely pure rubies, i.e. corundum with few inclusions, are even considered exceptional pieces.
Provenance
Ruby can be mined in Kenya, Tanzania, Madagascar, Afghanistan, Australia and the United States, particularly Montana and South Carolina. The largest mines, however, are located in South-East Asia. More specifically, in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam and, above all, Myanmar in the Mogok Valley. Myanmar is the world’s leading ruby producer, accounting for 90% of global production! Burmese mines are also renowned for the exceptional color of the stones they extract. Their deep, slightly bluish red, a quality known as “pigeon’s blood”, is highly prized on the market.
How do you determine the price of a ruby?
The ruby is without doubt the most expensive gemstone (with the exception of certain colored diamonds). Estimating the value of this gem depends on various criteria that determine its quality, such as its carat weight, clarity, the number of inclusions present, rarity, etc. Like other gemstones, the price of rubies is governed by the “four C’s”: Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat.
Astrology and ruby symbolism
In astrology, the ruby is associated with the natives of the month of July and is therefore the stone of choice for Leo in the 1st decan and Cancer in the 2nd and 3rd decans. Its flamboyant color symbolizes courage and loyalty. It is also linked to other zodiac signs with these characteristics, such as Capricorn, Scorpio and Aries.
In the Catholic religion, the ruby has long evoked the blood of Christ and divine love. Many cardinals wore ruby rings not only to show their power, but also to represent the Passion of Christ.
The virtues of ruby
An extremely powerful stone, ruby is not recommended for the hot-tempered and authoritarian. Instead, it is recommended for those of weaker or more timid character. For them, ruby provides the courage and strength to act. Symbolizing fire and warmth, this stone has the ability to capture energy and diffuse it more effectively. It therefore helps combat fatigue, ward off dark thoughts and foster a love of life. On a physical level, ruby is said to have a stimulating effect on blood circulation and the heart. It is said to heal intestinal disorders and indigestion, and to strengthen eyesight.
Legends and myths about rubies
Rubies have fascinated mankind since the dawn of time. In the Orient, these stones are regarded as drops of Mother Nature’s blood. Indian legends have it that the houses of the gods are illuminated by enormous rubies. This flamboyant gem also appears in many fairy tales, where it takes on a dark, menacing color when danger approaches. A symbol of power, the ruby has adorned the crowns of many sovereigns, including St. Wenceslas, who owned the world’s largest specimen: a fascinating 400-carat stone.
Giving a ruby
A symbol of love and exaltation par excellence, the ruby is traditionally given on the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries. Considered a sign of eternal love as far back as the Victorian era, when lovers used to conquer their sweethearts with jewelry combining rubies and diamonds, giving a ruby ring or pendant is a real commitment.
This intensely red stone will appeal to women of character who are not afraid of a challenge and who live their lives with intensity. Browse our collection of ruby earrings, bracelets, pendants, rings and wedding bands to prove to your other half that your love for her will never fade.
