The ruby, a gemstone celebrated for its vibrant red hue, holds a prominent position as the birthstone for July. Revered throughout history for its beauty and perceived powers, the ruby continues to captivate as a symbol of love, energy, and good fortune. This article will explore the ruby’s significance, from its historical use and cultural lore to its gemological properties and modern applications in jewelry, particularly within platinum settings.
History and Lore
The ruby’s history is steeped in ancient beliefs and symbolism. Referred to as the “Stone of Divine Creativity,” the ruby is believed to increase energy, self-esteem, and spiritual wisdom. Throughout time, the ruby has been associated with passion, protection, and prosperity. Its intense color has long been linked to the life force, and it was often worn by royalty and warriors to symbolize power and courage.
The ruby’s enduring appeal is evident in its continued use as a gift for special occasions, particularly those celebrating July birthdays or significant milestones like anniversaries. It represents a symbol of good fortune, loyalty, and enduring love, making it a cherished keepsake for generations. The stone’s association with passion and intensity makes it a fitting emblem for summer, the season of July.
Geological Formation and Sources
While the provided sources do not detail the geological formation of rubies, they emphasize the sourcing of high-quality rubies for jewelry. The focus is on the craftsmanship involved in selecting and incorporating these stones into fine jewelry pieces. The sources highlight the dedication of jewelers to hand-selecting unique and beautiful ruby designs for customers.
Gemological Properties
The ruby is renowned for its striking red color, which is caused by the presence of chromium within its crystalline structure. The sources do not provide specific details regarding the ruby’s chemical formula, refractive index, or hardness. However, they do emphasize the ruby’s brilliance and beauty, particularly when set in platinum.
The rings described in the sources are crafted with a platinum coating over sterling silver. This plating enhances the durability and longevity of the ring, ensuring it maintains its brilliance. Due to the platinum plating, resizing the rings through traditional methods is not possible, necessitating custom orders to achieve a perfect fit.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The ruby is deeply embedded in symbolism. It is considered a stone of passion, representing the intensity of love and desire. Beyond romantic love, the ruby is also believed to inspire energy, self-esteem, and spiritual wisdom. The “Stone of Divine Creativity” is thought to unlock inner potential and promote a sense of vitality.
The sources suggest that gifting a ruby symbolizes good fortune, loyalty, and love. This makes it a particularly meaningful gift for those born in July, as it aligns with their birthstone’s inherent qualities. The ruby’s fiery color and associated symbolism make it a powerful and evocative gemstone.
Platinum and Ruby: A Modern Pairing
The sources specifically highlight the use of platinum-coated sterling silver in ruby jewelry. Platinum is a highly durable and lustrous metal that complements the ruby’s vibrant color beautifully. The platinum plating enhances the ring’s longevity and ensures it maintains its brilliance for years to come.
The combination of ruby and platinum creates a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic. The cool, understated elegance of platinum provides a striking contrast to the ruby’s warm, passionate hue. This pairing is particularly popular in engagement rings, offering a unique alternative to traditional diamond settings. Jewelers offer customization options, allowing customers to select the ruby size that best fits their budget and personal taste.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific instructions for ruby care and cleaning. However, given the platinum coating on the sterling silver, it is advisable to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners. Gentle cleaning with mild soap and warm water, followed by a soft cloth polish, is recommended to maintain the ring’s brilliance. Due to the platinum plating, professional cleaning may be necessary to preserve the coating’s integrity.
Customization and Purchasing Considerations
The sources emphasize the importance of accurate sizing when purchasing a ruby ring with a platinum coating. Because the rings cannot be easily resized due to the plating, it is crucial to ensure a precise fit. Jewelers recommend professional sizing before confirming a purchase.
Customization options are available, allowing customers to select the size and quality of the ruby that best suits their preferences and budget. Jewelers like Ben Garelick offer selections from renowned designers, such as Simon G. and Gabriel, providing a wide range of styles and designs.
Purchasing Policies and Guarantees
Several sources detail purchasing policies and guarantees. These include free sizing and overnight shipping, a 7-day 100% return policy, a 30-day exchange for credit, free appraisal with purchase, and a 100% authenticity guarantee. It is important to note that custom commissions and eternity-style rings are typically final sale and non-refundable. Adjustments to ring size are limited to +/- 1.5 sizes once the ring is made, and eternity designs are not resizable.
The Ruby in Contemporary Jewelry
Today, the ruby remains a highly sought-after gemstone in the jewelry industry. Its vibrant color and symbolic significance continue to appeal to a wide range of customers. Jewelers are responding to this demand by offering a diverse selection of ruby jewelry, from classic solitaire rings to more contemporary designs. The ruby’s versatility allows it to be incorporated into various settings and styles, making it a timeless and enduring choice for those seeking a touch of passion and elegance.
Conclusion
The ruby, July’s birthstone, is a gemstone steeped in history, symbolism, and beauty. Its fiery red hue and association with passion, energy, and good fortune make it a cherished stone for centuries. The combination of ruby and platinum creates a stunning and durable piece of jewelry, perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply adding a touch of elegance to everyday life. Whether chosen for its metaphysical properties or its aesthetic appeal, the ruby remains a captivating and enduring symbol of love, power, and vitality.