The ruby, a gemstone celebrated for its vibrant red hue, holds a prominent position in the world of colored stones and is recognized as the birthstone for July. Associated with passion, protection, and prosperity, the ruby has captivated civilizations for millennia. This article delves into the history, lore, gemological properties, and symbolism of the ruby, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The historical understanding of birthstones traces back to biblical times, with origins in the Book of Exodus and the writings of Flavius Josephus. Josephus linked twelve stones to the months of the year, believing each stone possessed unique healing and protective properties, amplified during its corresponding month. The ruby, consistently associated with the month of July, has long been considered a stone of power and significance.
Throughout history, rubies have been highly valued. Sources indicate a belief that rubies offer protection of home and family. This protective quality, combined with its striking color, contributed to its association with courage and leadership. Modern interpretations continue to emphasize these qualities, portraying rubies as symbols of confidence and vitality.
Gemological Properties
The ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, known for its exceptional hardness. While the provided sources do not detail the specific chemical composition or refractive index, they do highlight the ruby’s characteristic color: red. Specifically, the ruby featured in an adjustable sterling silver ring is described as a “Rhodolite Stone” representing a ruby birthstone.
The sources also mention the availability of rubies in various jewelry forms, including rings, earrings, and pendants. An adjustable sterling silver ring featuring a 6mm diameter ruby is specifically described, indicating a common size for this gemstone in jewelry settings. The material used in the setting, sterling silver (925), is noted as requiring cleaning with a silver cloth to maintain its luster.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The ruby is rich in symbolism, consistently linked to positive attributes. Sources portray rubies as embodying courage, confidence, and a determined spirit. Individuals associated with this birthstone are described as “courageous, confident try-hards,” possessing a resilient nature and a willingness to persevere.
However, the sources also acknowledge a potential drawback: a tendency to become overly focused on challenges, potentially “digging deep holes” for themselves. Despite this, the overall impression is one of strength and charisma, with rubies often seen as natural leaders. The ruby is also associated with improved energy and concentration.
Ruby in Jewelry and Modern Offerings
Contemporary jewelry design frequently incorporates the ruby, as evidenced by the variety of items listed from Alex and Ani and other retailers. These include expandable bangles with ruby-colored crystal charms, pendant charms, and stud earrings. The availability of ruby-themed jewelry suggests continued popularity and demand for this gemstone.
The sources indicate that ruby jewelry is often crafted from sterling silver, a common and affordable metal. The presence of Swarovski® Crystals in some designs suggests an effort to enhance the brilliance and aesthetic appeal of the jewelry.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources offer limited guidance on ruby care, but do state that sterling silver components should be cleaned with a silver cloth. While rubies themselves are exceptionally durable, the settings in which they are mounted may require more delicate handling. Given the hardness of rubies, they are generally resistant to scratching, but regular cleaning is recommended to maintain their brilliance.
The Ruby and Alex and Ani
The brand Alex and Ani features several ruby-themed items, including expandable bangles with Siam crystal charms representing the July birthstone. These bangles are described as being adjustable, fitting wrists from 2 to 3.5 inches. The inclusion of ruby-themed jewelry within the Alex and Ani product line demonstrates the gemstone’s continued relevance in contemporary fashion and gift-giving.
Ruby as a Gift
The sources suggest that ruby jewelry makes a “lovely present,” particularly when paired with matching earrings. The adjustable nature of the rings described makes them versatile and suitable for various finger sizes, enhancing their appeal as a gift.