The ruby, a gemstone steeped in history and revered for its vibrant red hue, holds a prominent place in the world of precious stones. As the birthstone for July, it symbolizes passion, protection, and prosperity, embodying a fiery energy that has captivated civilizations for millennia. This article will delve into the ruby’s geological origins, historical significance, gemological properties, and enduring cultural symbolism, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The ruby’s story is interwoven with tales of royalty, warfare, and mystical belief. Its name originates from the Latin word “ruber,” meaning red, a direct reference to its defining characteristic. Throughout history, the ruby has been associated with life, blood, and vitality, earning it a place of honor in numerous cultures. In ancient India, the ruby was known as the “king of precious stones,” prized for its rarity, hardness, and perceived mystical powers. It was believed to predict misfortune or even cure inflammatory diseases and soothe anger. Burmese warriors, according to ancient beliefs, considered rubies to imbue them with invincibility in battle.
Medieval Europeans similarly attributed protective qualities to the ruby, believing it bestowed health, wisdom, wealth, and success in love. References to the ruby appear in historical texts, including the Bible, where it is listed as one of the stones representing the tribes of Israel. The gemstone’s association with power and prestige is further evidenced by its frequent inclusion in royal regalia, signifying the status and authority of kings and queens. In 19th-century France, the “Lapidaire en Vers” described the ruby as being placed on Aaron’s neck by divine command, solidifying its religious and symbolic importance.
Historically, Burma (now Myanmar) was a primary source of rubies, with large gemstones becoming the exclusive property of the Burmese Crown. The king was even known as the ‘Lord of the Rubies,’ enforcing a law requiring miners to surrender significant finds to the royal treasury.
Geological Formation and Sources
The ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum (aluminum oxide – Al₂O₃), the same mineral species that forms sapphires. However, while corundum occurs in a spectrum of colors, only the red variety is classified as ruby; all other colors are considered sapphires. The characteristic red color of the ruby is attributed to the presence of trace amounts of the element chromium within its crystal structure. The more chromium present, the more intense the red hue.
Rubies are formed in metamorphic and igneous rocks. They require specific geological conditions, including high pressure and temperature, and the presence of both aluminum and chromium. Notable sources of rubies include Afghanistan, Cambodia, India, Madagascar, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Vietnam. Burma (Myanmar) is particularly renowned for producing some of the world’s finest quality rubies, often exhibiting a vibrant “pigeon’s blood” red color – considered the most desirable shade.
Gemological Properties
The ruby’s exceptional qualities contribute to its enduring appeal. It boasts a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, second only to diamond, making it exceptionally durable and suitable for everyday wear. This hardness also contributes to its resistance to scratching and abrasion.
Key gemological properties of ruby include:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mineral | Corundum (Al₂O₃) |
| Color | Red (various shades) |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9 |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Refractive Index | 1.762-1.770 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.97-4.05 |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal |
The most prized ruby color is a deep, vibrant red with a hint of purple, known in the trade as “pigeon’s blood.” Clarity is also a significant factor in determining a ruby’s value. While completely flawless rubies are rare, stones with minimal inclusions are generally more valuable. However, the presence of needle-like rutile inclusions can sometimes indicate that the stone has undergone treatment to enhance its clarity or color.
Rubies are cut into a variety of shapes, including round, pear, oval, cushion, and emerald-cut. They can also be carved into intricate designs or cut as cabochons (smooth, polished stones) or beads.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond its physical properties, the ruby carries a rich tapestry of symbolic meaning. It is universally recognized as a symbol of passion, love, and intense emotion. This association stems from its vibrant red color, which has long been linked to the heart and the life force.
The ruby is also believed to offer protection, shielding the wearer from harm and promoting courage and vitality. In ancient times, it was thought to ward off evil spirits and protect against misfortune. As the July birthstone, it is believed to bring good fortune and passionate love to those born in that month. Furthermore, rubies are traditionally gifted to celebrate the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, symbolizing the enduring flame of love and commitment.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its exceptional hardness, the ruby is a relatively durable gemstone. However, proper care is essential to maintain its brilliance and prevent damage. Rubies can be safely cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can potentially damage the stone or any treatments it may have undergone.
It is also advisable to store rubies separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching. Regular inspection can help identify any loose settings or damage, allowing for timely repairs. While rubies are resistant to scratching, they can be chipped or fractured if subjected to a strong impact.
Lab-Created Rubies and Treatments
It is important to note that lab-created rubies are also available. These synthetic stones possess the same chemical and physical properties as natural rubies but are produced in a controlled laboratory environment.
Furthermore, many natural rubies undergo treatments to enhance their appearance. Heat treatment is a common practice used to improve transparency, clarity, and color. Other treatments, such as filling fractures with leaded glass or using oils and dyes, may also be employed. Any treatments should be disclosed to the buyer, as they can affect the stone’s value and long-term durability.
Conclusion
The ruby remains one of the most coveted and highly valued gemstones in the world. Its captivating red color, exceptional durability, and rich historical and symbolic significance continue to inspire and enchant. From its ancient origins as a symbol of power and protection to its modern role as the birthstone of July and a token of enduring love, the ruby’s legacy is firmly cemented in the annals of gemological history. Whether admired for its aesthetic beauty or cherished for its metaphysical properties, the ruby is a timeless treasure that will continue to captivate generations to come.