For those born in July, the modern birthstone is the magnificent ruby, a gemstone steeped in history, lore, and vibrant color. The name “ruby” originates from the Latin word “rubeus,” meaning “red,” evolving through Medieval Latin (“rubinus”), Old French (“rubi”), and finally, into the English “ruby” we know today. In Ancient Sanskrit, the ruby was known as “ratnaraj,” translating to “king of precious stones,” a testament to its enduring value and prestige. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of this captivating gem, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
Rubies have held a prominent place in human history and culture for millennia. Ancient civilizations revered the ruby not only for its beauty but also for the powers attributed to it. In ancient Rome, the gemstone was believed to possess the ability to prevent intoxication and bring tranquility to the wearer. The Romans also associated rubies with vitality and protection.
The ruby’s association with power and royalty is evident in numerous historical accounts. Sources indicate that the Roman Caesar Tiberius possessed a ring featuring a garnet stone set in the form of a snake, though rubies were also highly prized by Roman nobility. Throughout history, rubies have been symbols of passion, protection, and prosperity.
The standardization of birthstone lists is a relatively recent phenomenon. While customs associating gemstones with specific months evolved over centuries, the National Association of Jewelers officially standardized the American birthstone list in 1912. This list was later modified in 1952 by the Jewelry Industry Council of America, but the ruby’s position as the July birthstone has remained consistent.
Geological Formation and Sources
Rubies belong to the corundum family, a crystalline mineral that also includes sapphires. The vibrant red hue of a ruby is a result of the presence of chromium within its chemical structure. Interestingly, the very element that gives the ruby its prized color also contributes to its rarity. Chromium causes fissures and cracks within the gemstone during formation, making large, high-quality rubies exceptionally scarce and valuable – often exceeding the price of diamonds.
The sources do not specify particular mining locations for rubies.
Gemological Properties
Rubies exhibit a range of properties that define their quality and value. They are known for existing only in shades of red and pink, with the intensity of the red color directly correlated to the amount of chromium present. The more chromium, the deeper and more vivid the red. High chromium levels can sometimes impart hints of purple or blue under certain lighting conditions.
While the provided sources do not detail specific gemological data such as refractive index or specific gravity, they do highlight the ruby’s position among the four most famous and precious gemstones – alongside emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds. The sources also mention the Mohs hardness scale for garnet (6.5-7.5) and amethyst (7), but do not provide the Mohs hardness for ruby.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, the ruby has been imbued with rich symbolism. It is often associated with fire, emotion, and passion. The ruby is believed to arouse the senses, stir the imagination, and guarantee health, wisdom, wealth, and success in love. Some believe that wearing a ruby provides protection against misfortunes and helps the wearer attain wisdom.
The symbolism extends to specific occasions. Rubies are traditionally associated with the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, representing enduring love and commitment. The stone is also seen as a symbol of contentment.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of a ruby requires proper care. The sources mention that a basic clean, polish, and inspection are part of the routine maintenance needed to keep jewelry looking new. This inspection should include checking for loose stones and bent prongs, as these can lead to damage or loss. Stone setting repairs, such as re-tipping worn prongs or rebuilding damaged settings, are also important aspects of ruby jewelry care.
Conclusion
The ruby, with its fiery hue and rich history, rightfully earns its title as the “king of precious stones.” As the birthstone for July, it represents passion, protection, and prosperity. From ancient civilizations to modern jewelry, the ruby continues to captivate and inspire. Its enduring appeal lies not only in its beauty but also in the centuries of lore and symbolism associated with this magnificent gemstone.