The ruby, celebrated as the birthstone for July, holds a prominent place in jewelry, particularly in the form of cuff bracelets. These bracelets, often featuring raw or simulated rubies set in metals like sterling silver and gold, represent more than just aesthetic appeal; they embody symbolism of passion, strength, and vitality. This article will explore the characteristics of ruby cuff bracelets, their historical context, craftsmanship, and significance as a meaningful piece of jewelry.
History and Lore
Rubies have a long and storied history, associated with royalty and power across numerous cultures. While the provided sources do not detail the ancient origins of ruby lore, they do establish the ruby’s enduring association with powerful emotions. Modern interpretations, as highlighted by one source, connect rubies to “love, courage, and vitality,” reinforcing their status as a symbol of emotional strength. The tradition of designating specific gemstones for each month is a relatively recent development, but the ruby’s inherent symbolism has resonated for centuries. The sources indicate that ruby bracelets are considered meaningful choices for both personal wear and as gifts, signifying a deep connection and well-wishing.
Craftsmanship and Materials
Ruby cuff bracelets are crafted with a variety of techniques and materials. Several sources emphasize the handcrafted nature of these pieces, with artisans carefully selecting and setting the stones. The materials used range from sterling silver to 14K gold, providing options for different preferences and budgets. One source specifically mentions Italian-made sterling silver with a gold finish, while others highlight raw brass cuffs.
A notable trend is the use of both natural and lab-created rubies. CinnamonSticks Designs explicitly states that their stones are lab-created, offering a price-conscious alternative to natural gemstones. The Cord Gallery features raw ruby bracelets, emphasizing the unique, asymmetrical nature of each stone. These raw rubies are electroplated in gold trim, adding a touch of elegance to the natural form. Gabriel NY focuses on precision and purpose in their craftsmanship, selecting rubies for their deep, vibrant red hue. Wendell August utilizes Austrian Crystal inspired by birthstones.
Gemological Properties and Appearance
The sources primarily focus on the appearance of the rubies used in these bracelets, rather than detailed gemological properties. The consistent descriptor is a “deep, vibrant red” color, which is the hallmark of a high-quality ruby. The Cord Gallery notes that the raw rubies vary in color and texture, highlighting the natural uniqueness of each stone. The bracelets feature rubies of approximately one inch in size, though this varies depending on the design.
The sources do not provide information on ruby’s chemical composition, hardness, or refractive index. However, the emphasis on the stone’s color and brilliance suggests an appreciation for its visual qualities. The use of simulated rubies and Austrian Crystals indicates that the aesthetic appeal is prioritized in some designs, offering a more accessible price point.
Styles and Designs
Ruby cuff bracelets are available in a diverse range of styles to suit individual tastes. The sources showcase several distinct designs:
- Single Cable Cuff: Kelly Waters offers a simple, elegant cuff bracelet with a single cable design and a row of simulated rubies.
- Raw Ruby Cuff: The Cord Gallery specializes in raw ruby cuffs, featuring asymmetrical stones set in raw brass.
- Stacking Cuff: CinnamonSticks Designs offers stacking cuff bracelets adorned with a hand-sculpted bronze heart and gemstones, including rubies.
- Pave Bolo Bracelet & Charm Bangles: Alex and Ani presents a variety of ruby-themed bracelets, including pave bolo bracelets, charm bangles, and interchangeable charm options.
- Classic Ruby Bracelets: Gabriel NY crafts ruby bracelets set in 14K gold or sterling silver, emphasizing timeless elegance.
- Birthstone Charm Bracelets: Alex and Ani offers charm bangles specifically designed to celebrate the July birthstone.
These diverse styles demonstrate the versatility of the ruby cuff bracelet, catering to both minimalist and maximalist aesthetics.
Symbolism and Meaning
The ruby is deeply symbolic, representing a range of positive attributes. As noted by Gabriel NY, rubies symbolize “love, courage, and vitality.” This symbolism extends to the bracelets themselves, making them meaningful gifts for birthdays, Christmas, or simply as a gesture of affection. The association with emotional strength makes ruby bracelets particularly suitable for those seeking to enhance their inner resilience. Alex and Ani offers zodiac-themed bracelets for Cancer and Leo, combining the symbolism of the birthstone with astrological signs.
Care and Cleaning
While the sources do not provide detailed care instructions, the materials used in the bracelets offer clues. Sterling silver requires regular polishing to maintain its shine, while gold is more resistant to tarnishing. The Cord Gallery’s raw brass cuffs may require occasional cleaning to prevent oxidation. Alex and Ani offers a jewelry polishing cloth for maintaining the brilliance of their bracelets. Given the potential for scratches on both natural and lab-created rubies, it is advisable to store the bracelets separately from other jewelry and avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
Purchasing and Market Availability
Ruby cuff bracelets are widely available through various retailers, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. The sources represent a range of vendors, from independent artisans like The Cord Gallery to established jewelry brands like Gabriel NY and Alex and Ani. Wendell August offers a 100-day money-back guarantee, providing customers with peace of mind. Gabriel NY offers the option to book a VIP viewing session at select stores. The price range varies depending on the materials, craftsmanship, and the type of ruby used, from $49.00 for a raw ruby cuff to $99.95 for a simulated ruby bracelet.
Ruby Bracelet Styles: A Summary Table
| Bracelet Style | Materials | Ruby Type | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Cable Cuff | Sterling Silver (Gold Finish) | Simulated | $99.95 |
| Raw Ruby Cuff | Raw Brass | Natural | $49.00 |
| Stacking Cuff | Sterling Silver, Bronze | Lab-Created | Price Quote Required |
| Pave Bolo/Charm Bangle | Various Metals | Ruby | Varies |
| Classic Ruby Bracelet | 14K Gold, Sterling Silver | Natural | Varies |
| Birthstone Charm Bangle | Various Metals | Ruby | Varies |
Conclusion
Ruby cuff bracelets represent a beautiful and meaningful way to celebrate the July birthstone. From the handcrafted designs featuring raw, natural rubies to the elegant pieces adorned with lab-created stones, these bracelets offer a diverse range of styles to suit every taste and budget. The ruby’s enduring symbolism of love, courage, and vitality adds a layer of significance, making these bracelets cherished gifts and personal treasures. The craftsmanship and materials used reflect a commitment to quality and artistry, ensuring that these bracelets will be enjoyed for years to come.