The ruby, a gemstone steeped in history and revered for its vibrant red hue, holds a prominent position as the birthstone for July. Known since ancient times for its beauty and perceived mystical properties, the ruby continues to captivate and inspire. This article will explore the ruby’s history, geological origins, gemological characteristics, symbolism, and place in modern jewelry.
History and Lore
The ruby’s history stretches back millennia, with evidence of its appreciation dating to ancient civilizations. In ancient India, the ruby was lauded as the “king of precious stones,” referred to as “ratnaraj” in Sanskrit, a testament to its rarity and perceived power. This reverence stemmed from the association of the ruby’s color with the life force – blood – symbolizing power and youthful energy. Burmese warriors believed possessing a ruby would render them invincible in battle.
Medieval Europeans also held the ruby in high esteem, attributing to it the power to bestow health, wisdom, wealth, and success in love. Its historical significance extends across continents and cultures, with British monarchs, Chinese emperors, and kings throughout Asia all captivated by its allure. The Mogok region of Myanmar (formerly Burma) is credited with the earliest discoveries of rubies, around 2500 BC, establishing it as a historically significant source.
The ruby’s association with July as a birthstone wasn’t formally codified until the early 20th century. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) standardized a list of birthstones, officially designating the ruby as the gem for those born in July. Prior to this, the ruby was already favored in older birthstone charts for its symbolism of love, strength, and protection.
Geological Formation and Sources
Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, an aluminum oxide mineral. Their characteristic red color arises from trace amounts of the element chromium within the crystal structure. The more chromium present, the more intense the red hue. Interestingly, the presence of chromium can also create fissures and cracks within the gemstone, paradoxically contributing to its rarity, as it makes large, high-quality rubies exceptionally scarce.
While rubies are found in various locations globally, certain regions are particularly renowned for their production. Myanmar (Burma) has historically been a primary source, with the Mogok region being especially famous. Other significant sources include Vietnam, India, East Africa, the Middle East, Thailand, and the United States. Each region yields rubies with unique characteristics, with five major types being the Burmese ruby, Thai ruby, Mozambique ruby, Madagascar ruby, and Tanzanian ruby.
Gemological Properties
The ruby’s appeal lies not only in its color but also in its exceptional physical properties. It ranks a 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, second only to diamond, making it exceptionally durable and suitable for everyday wear. The name “ruby” itself is derived from the Latin word “ruber,” meaning red. While rubies are most commonly known for their red hues, they can also exhibit shades of pink. However, no other colors exist in nature for rubies.
The most prized ruby color is a deep, vivid red with a hint of purple, often referred to as “pigeon’s blood” by gem traders. This specific shade is highly sought after and commands a premium price. The chemical formula for ruby is Al₂O₃, with chromium impurities contributing to its color.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, the ruby has been imbued with rich symbolism. Beyond its association with passion and love, stemming from its red color, the ruby has been seen as a symbol of power, courage, and vitality. Ancient cultures believed it could predict misfortune or danger, while others claimed it possessed healing properties, capable of curing inflammatory diseases and soothing anger.
The ruby’s symbolism extends to modern times, where it is often given to commemorate 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, representing enduring love and commitment. The “king of gemstones” title reflects not only its aesthetic appeal but also its perceived ability to bestow strength and protection upon its wearer.
Ruby in Modern Jewelry
Today, rubies remain highly coveted gemstones, frequently featured in a wide range of jewelry designs. They are particularly popular in rings, including engagement and wedding bands, as well as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Both natural and lab-grown rubies are available, offering options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Natural ruby rings, often set in 14K yellow or white gold, can start at several thousand dollars, depending on the quality of the stone. Lab-grown ruby rings offer a more affordable alternative, starting around $1500, while still providing the beauty and durability of a ruby. Ruby earrings, pendants, and bracelets are also available in both natural and lab-grown varieties, with prices varying based on the size, quality, and setting of the stones.
Dual Birthstone Status: Onyx
Interestingly, July also recognizes Onyx as a traditional birthstone alongside the ruby. While the ruby is the more widely recognized modern birthstone, Onyx holds a timeless charm of its own. The distinction between modern and traditional birthstones arose from the availability of gemstones in the market and a desire for standardization within the jewelry industry.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its exceptional hardness, the ruby is a relatively durable gemstone. However, proper care is essential to maintain its brilliance. Rubies can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for rubies, but caution should be exercised if the ruby has been fracture-filled, as these treatments can be affected by ultrasonic cleaning. Regular cleaning will help preserve the ruby’s vibrant color and luster.
Conclusion
The ruby, with its rich history, captivating color, and exceptional durability, remains a highly prized gemstone. From its ancient origins as the “king of precious stones” to its modern status as the birthstone for July, the ruby continues to symbolize passion, power, and enduring love. Its geological formation, unique gemological properties, and cultural significance all contribute to its enduring appeal, making it a timeless treasure for generations to come.