The ruby, a captivating gemstone celebrated for its rich, red hue, holds a prominent place in the world of jewelry and as the birthstone for July. Revered throughout history for its beauty and perceived powers, the ruby continues to be a symbol of passion, protection, and prosperity. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of the ruby, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
Throughout history, rubies have fascinated humankind. Their appeal stems not only from their vibrant color but also from their ability to absorb and re-emit light. Ancient civilizations associated the ruby with blood, linking it to physical strength and vitality. Sources indicate that rubies were historically placed in drinking vessels, with the belief that this practice would promote health and toast to well-being.
The ruby’s deep red color has long been associated with passion and energy, making it a fitting gift for those needing a reminder of their talents and contributions. The most prized rubies, known as “pigeon-blood” rubies, possess a deep red color with subtle blue undertones.
Interestingly, sources note a historical connection between rubies and sapphires. If not for their characteristic red color, rubies would be classified as sapphires. A ruby lacking sufficient chromium content is referred to as a pink sapphire, highlighting the close relationship between these two gemstones.
Geological Formation and Sources
The formation of rubies is intrinsically linked to specific geological processes. Rubies grow in volcanic rock formations. While specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided sources, the mention of a peridot source—an island in the Red Sea mined by the Egyptians, later lost and rediscovered in 1900—suggests that ruby sources, too, have been historically subject to discovery and rediscovery. The sources do not provide specific details on current ruby mining locations.
Gemological Properties
The ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, known for its exceptional hardness. According to available information, rubies are exceptionally durable. The hardness of diamonds is mentioned as the highest on the Mohs scale, but the ruby’s resistance to scratching is not directly compared.
The color of a ruby is determined by the presence of chromium. The amount of chromium dictates the intensity of the red hue. The sources highlight that the most valuable rubies exhibit a deep red color with blue undertones, termed “pigeon-blood” rubies.
The provided sources detail specific gemological properties for a ruby featured in a 10K white gold ring: the center gemstone is oval-shaped, measuring 6mm x 4mm, with a clarity grade of I1 and a cut grade of “Very Good.” The ruby’s carat weight is 0.15 ct tw (total weight), and it is surrounded by 26 round diamonds. Another example details a 0.12 ctw natural ruby set in a 14k solid gold ring with a 4mm bezel.
A table summarizing the gemological properties from the provided sources is shown below:
| Property | Value (Source 2) | Value (Source 1) |
|---|---|---|
| Gemstone | Ruby | Ruby |
| Shape | Oval | N/A |
| Dimensions | 6mm x 4mm | 4mm (Bezel) |
| Clarity | I1 | N/A |
| Cut | Very Good | N/A |
| Carat Weight | 0.15 ct tw | 0.12 ctw |
| Setting Material | 10K White Gold | 14k Solid Gold |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The ruby is rich in symbolism, representing a range of positive attributes. It is associated with passion, vitality, and strength. Historically, the ruby’s resemblance to blood contributed to its association with physical health and energy. The act of toasting with ruby-set vessels was a testament to this belief.
In modern interpretations, rubies are considered a reminder of one’s energetic nature, talents, and potential. The symbolism extends to commitment and longevity, though this association is more strongly linked to diamonds in the provided sources.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources do not offer specific guidance on ruby care and cleaning. However, given the ruby’s hardness and durability, it can be inferred that it is relatively resistant to scratching. Further research would be needed to provide detailed cleaning instructions.
The Ruby in Jewelry
The sources showcase rubies prominently featured in rings. One example is a 10K white gold ring with an oval ruby and surrounding diamonds. Another is a 14K solid gold ring featuring a natural ruby. These examples demonstrate the ruby’s versatility in jewelry design, complementing both white and yellow gold settings. The sources also mention Color Merchants as a leading supplier of diamond and gemstone jewelry, including ruby pieces. They offer a range of styles, from classic birthstone designs to more contemporary pieces.
Conclusion
The ruby, with its captivating red hue and rich history, remains a highly sought-after gemstone. From its ancient associations with vitality and strength to its modern symbolism of passion and energy, the ruby continues to hold a special place in the hearts of jewelry enthusiasts and those seeking a meaningful birthstone. Its durability and beauty ensure its enduring appeal for generations to come. The ruby’s geological origins, while not fully detailed in the provided sources, contribute to its mystique and value. As a July birthstone, the ruby offers a vibrant and powerful symbol for those born under its radiant glow.