Ruby, a gemstone celebrated for its vibrant red hue, holds a prominent position in the world of precious stones and is recognized as the birthstone for July. Throughout history, this captivating gem has been associated with passion, protection, and prosperity, adorning the crowns of royalty and symbolizing enduring love. This article will delve into the origins, geological formation, gemological properties, historical significance, and enduring symbolism of the ruby, drawing upon established knowledge within the field of gemology.
History and Lore
The history of ruby is deeply interwoven with ancient cultures and traditions. Its recognition as a significant gemstone dates back to ancient India, Poland, and Russia, where it was revered for its perceived protective qualities and association with courage. In Sanskrit, ruby is known as ‘ratnaraj,’ meaning ‘king of precious gemstones,’ and ‘padmaraga,’ translating to ‘red as a lotus,’ highlighting the esteem in which it was held.
Ancient texts, such as the 19th-century French “Lapidaire en Vers,” reference the ruby’s biblical significance, noting its presence on Aaron’s neck. Roman scholar Pliny the Elder believed rubies originated from igneous sources, formed by the fire of heaven – even referring to them as ‘Donnerkeil’ or ‘thunderbolt’ in Germany. These early beliefs demonstrate the ruby’s long-held association with power and divine favor.
The ruby’s historical importance is further underscored by its connection to royalty. In Burma, now Myanmar, the gem was once a monopoly of the Burmese Crown, with the king known as ‘Lord of the Rubies,’ enforcing a requirement for miners to surrender significant finds. This practice highlights the gem’s value and its role as a symbol of power and status.
The formal establishment of ruby as the July birthstone occurred in 1912, when the American National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) standardized a list of birthstones, solidifying its place in modern tradition.
Geological Formation and Sources
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide (Al2O3). While corundum can occur in various colors, the presence of trace amounts of chromium within the crystal structure is responsible for the ruby’s characteristic red coloration. Other colors of corundum are known as sapphires.
Historically, Burma was the primary source of high-quality rubies, with large gemstones often reserved for the Burmese Crown. Today, rubies are sourced from various locations worldwide, including Africa, where recent discoveries have made attractive natural rubies more accessible at affordable prices. While specific locations are not detailed beyond Africa in the provided sources, the gem’s formation requires specific geological conditions, typically metamorphic or magmatic environments.
The sources also mention the distinction between natural and lab-grown rubies. Lab-grown rubies have been available since the early 1900s and are commonly found in jewelry stores, often exhibiting superior clarity and color compared to natural gems of similar price. However, many consumers still prefer natural rubies, valuing their origin within the Earth.
Gemological Properties
The ruby’s appeal stems not only from its color but also from its exceptional physical properties. It boasts a remarkable hardness of 9 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, second only to diamond. This durability makes it highly resistant to scratching and suitable for everyday wear.
The color of ruby is its most defining characteristic, ranging from deep crimson to vivid pinkish-red. The most prized and valuable rubies exhibit a pure red hue or a slightly purplish-red tone. The intensity of the color is directly related to the amount of chromium present in the crystal.
While the provided sources do not detail other gemological properties such as refractive index or specific gravity, they emphasize the ruby’s overall quality and desirability as a precious gemstone. The sources also note that some rubies, excluding those from Thailand and Cambodia, possess enough chromium to fluoresce in sunlight, adding to their visual appeal.
Here's a table summarizing the key gemological properties mentioned in the sources:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Corundum (Aluminum Oxide - Al2O3) |
| Color | Red, ranging from orangy-red to purplish-red |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9 |
| Luster | Not specified in sources |
| Transparency | Not specified in sources |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, ruby has been imbued with rich symbolism. It is widely recognized as a symbol of passion, love, and courage. Its association with royalty further reinforces its connection to power and prestige. The gem is believed to bring good fortune and protect its wearer from harm.
The name “ruby” itself originates from the Latin word “ruber,” meaning “red,” directly referencing the gem’s dominant color and its association with strong emotions. The ruby is also considered a birthstone for Taurus, according to some traditions, and is linked to both Cancer and Leo in Western astrology, representing passionate and regal personalities.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its exceptional hardness, ruby is a relatively durable gemstone. However, proper care is essential to maintain its brilliance and prevent damage. The sources suggest that ruby jewelry can withstand daily wear, but it is still advisable to avoid harsh impacts or abrasive materials.
Cleaning rubies is straightforward. Warm, soapy water and a soft brush are generally sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, as they may potentially damage the stone. After cleaning, rinse the ruby thoroughly and dry it with a soft cloth.
Conclusion
Ruby, the captivating birthstone of July, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of precious gemstones. From its ancient origins steeped in mythology and royalty to its modern-day status as a symbol of passion and protection, the ruby continues to captivate and inspire. Its exceptional hardness, vibrant color, and rich history make it a treasured gem for generations to come. Whether admired for its beauty, cherished for its symbolism, or valued for its durability, the ruby remains a timeless and significant gemstone.