The ruby, a gemstone celebrated for its vibrant red hue, holds a prominent position as the birthstone for July. Revered throughout history for its association with passion, protection, and prosperity, the ruby continues to captivate as a symbol of love and a striking choice for jewelry, including engagement rings. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this remarkable gem, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The story of the ruby is deeply interwoven with ancient traditions and royal associations. The very name “ruby” originates from the Latin word Rubeus, meaning red. In ancient Sanskrit texts, exceptional rubies were known as ratnaraj, translating to “king of precious stones,” highlighting the gem’s esteemed status. Ancient Hindus offered rubies to the god Krishna, believing this act would lead to reincarnation as an emperor. This connection to royalty extends to astrological associations, with Leo, one of the sun signs linked to July, often referred to as the king of the zodiac.
Beyond its regal connections, the ruby was believed to bestow numerous benefits upon its wearer. Ancient cultures attributed qualities such as good health, wisdom, and success in love to the stone. Some even believed the July birthstone color, red, embodied the power of life itself. The ruby’s enduring appeal throughout history underscores its significance as a gemstone of power and prestige.
Geological Formation and Sources
While the provided sources do not detail specific geological formations, they establish the ruby as a rare and coveted gem. The sources indicate that natural rubies can be highly valuable, sometimes exceeding the cost of diamonds of comparable size. This high value is directly linked to their rarity. The sources do not specify particular mining locations.
Gemological Properties
The ruby is renowned for its striking color, a vibrant red that ranges in shade. Like all gemstones, rubies are graded based on the “four Cs”: cut, carat, color, and clarity. The quality of these factors directly influences the stone’s overall value. The value of a ruby is also affected by whether it has been naturally sourced or heat-treated.
The sources highlight the ruby’s durability, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear and particularly well-suited as a center stone for engagement rings. This durability allows for a variety of jewelry designs, from minimalistic stud earrings to elaborate pendant necklaces and custom charm bracelets.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The ruby is rich in symbolism, representing love, passion, energy, and protection against evil. It is considered a meaningful and personalized gift choice, particularly for those born in July. The stone is believed to attract desirable qualities, including good fortune and prosperity. Its association with the sun sign Leo further reinforces its connection to power and leadership.
Ruby in Jewelry and Modern Applications
The ruby’s beauty and durability make it a popular choice for a wide range of jewelry. The sources suggest that a simple pair of ruby studs can summon good luck, while an elegant pendant necklace offers a timeless style. For a more dramatic statement, a ruby paired with a yellow gold setting creates a head-turning piece.
The sources specifically mention the suitability of rubies for engagement rings, offering an appealing alternative to diamonds. The gem’s vibrant hue and enduring quality make it a symbolic and beautiful choice for marking a lifelong commitment. Lab-grown rubies are also presented as a viable option, offering the same symbolic meaning and aesthetic appeal.
Purchasing and Care
When selecting a ruby, it is important to consider the quality of the four Cs – cut, carat, color, and clarity. The sources emphasize the importance of ensuring a proper fit when purchasing a ring, noting that platinum-coated sterling silver rings cannot be easily resized. It is recommended to be sized by a professional jeweler before making a purchase.
The sources also detail specific purchasing considerations. Rings are adjustable by only 1.5 sizes (+/-) once made, and eternity-style rings or those with stone settings are generally not resizable. Custom commissions and eternity rings are often final sale and non-refundable.
Conclusion
The ruby, July’s birthstone, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of colored gemstones. From its ancient associations with royalty and power to its modern appeal in engagement rings and everyday jewelry, the ruby continues to captivate with its fiery beauty and symbolic significance. Its durability, combined with its rich history and vibrant color, ensures its place as a cherished gemstone for generations to come.