The Ty Beanie Baby Ruby, designed as a Happy Birthday bear for the month of July, represents a unique intersection of the collectible plush toy market and the tradition of birthstones. While not a gemstone in the traditional sense, this plush bear embodies the symbolism associated with ruby, the recognized birthstone for July. This article will explore the history of the Beanie Baby phenomenon, the specific details of the Ruby bear, its materials and care, and its place within the broader world of collectibles.
The Rise of Beanie Babies
Beanie Babies emerged in the early 1990s, created by Ty Warner and his company, TY Inc. These small, bean-filled plush toys quickly gained popularity, but experienced a dramatic surge in demand in 1995. This increase was fueled by deliberate strategies involving stock shortages and the practice of “retiring” certain designs, creating a sense of scarcity and driving up collector value. The unique construction of Beanie Babies, utilizing a combination of traditional stuffing and plastic pellets – referred to as “beans” – contributed to their distinctive soft and flexible feel, a characteristic adored by fans.
The initial success of Beanie Babies led to the creation of numerous other lines under the TY brand, including Beanie Boo’s, Beanie Buddies, and Teeny Tys, all of which continue to be popular among collectors. The company’s innovative approach to design and marketing transformed the plush toy industry and established a dedicated community of enthusiasts.
Introducing Ruby: The July Birthstone Bear
The Ty Beanie Baby Ruby is specifically designed to represent the birthstone for July: the ruby. This bear is characterized by its vibrant red color, directly associating it with the gemstone’s iconic hue. It is part of the “Happy Birthday” series, intended to commemorate birthdays throughout the year. Ruby is described as an “adorable and collectible plush toy” and is marketed as a delightful gift for those born in July, or as an addition to an existing Beanie Baby collection. The bear features the signature TY heart swing tag, a hallmark of the brand and a key element for collectors.
Currently, the Ruby Beanie Baby is available for purchase at a price of $6.00 CAD, originally priced at $10.00 CAD, indicating a sale price. A pack of six “Happy Birthday” bears, including a May bear, was sold for approximately US $19.81.
Materials and Construction
Beanie Babies, including Ruby, are constructed using a unique combination of materials. The core filling consists of traditional stuffing materials combined with plastic pellets, or “beans.” This blend provides the toys with their signature soft texture and flexibility. The outer fabric is a plush material, chosen for its appealing feel and durability. The heart-shaped swing tag, a defining feature of TY products, is attached to the bear and serves as an identifier and a collectible element.
The manufacturing process prioritizes attention to detail, ensuring each Beanie Baby is crafted with care. This commitment to quality contributes to their status as cherished keepsakes for collectors and enthusiasts.
Storage and Care
Proper storage is essential for maintaining the condition of Beanie Babies and preserving their collectible value. It is recommended to store them in breathable containers, avoiding areas exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity, or moisture. These conditions can potentially damage the plush material or affect the integrity of the plastic pellets. Keeping the bears away from humidity is particularly important.
Cleaning Beanie Babies requires a gentle approach. Specific cleaning instructions are not detailed in the provided sources, but the emphasis on avoiding moisture suggests a preference for surface cleaning or spot treatment rather than full immersion.
The Collectible Market and Ruby’s Place Within It
TY plush animals and characters are considered highly collectible items. The initial Beanie Baby craze of the 1990s established a strong foundation for the collectible market, and subsequent lines like Beanie Boo’s and Teeny Tys have continued to attract dedicated fans and collectors. The limited production runs and retiring designs employed by TY Inc. contribute to the perceived value and desirability of these items.
Ruby, as a birthstone-themed Beanie Baby, holds a specific appeal for collectors interested in both the broader Beanie Baby phenomenon and the symbolism associated with birthstones. The bear’s association with July and the ruby gemstone adds an extra layer of significance for those born in that month or with an affinity for the gemstone. The availability of Ruby, along with other “Happy Birthday” bears, in packs further enhances its appeal to collectors seeking to complete a set.
The Significance of the Ruby Birthstone (as reflected in the Beanie Baby)
While the provided sources do not detail the historical or metaphysical properties of the ruby gemstone itself, the choice of a red bear to represent July’s birthstone implicitly acknowledges the ruby’s traditional symbolism. Rubies are historically associated with passion, courage, and vitality, and their vibrant red color has long been linked to love and energy. By associating the Ruby Beanie Baby with the month of July, TY Inc. taps into these established cultural associations, offering a playful and accessible representation of the gemstone’s significance.
Conclusion
The Ty Beanie Baby Ruby, while a plush toy and not a traditional gemstone, serves as a unique collectible item that embodies the symbolism of the ruby birthstone. Its rise to popularity is intertwined with the broader Beanie Baby phenomenon of the 1990s, driven by strategic marketing, limited production, and a dedicated collector base. The bear’s construction, utilizing a combination of traditional stuffing and plastic pellets, contributes to its distinctive feel, while its vibrant red color directly links it to the iconic ruby gemstone. Proper storage and gentle care are essential for preserving its condition and maintaining its collectible value. Ultimately, the Ruby Beanie Baby represents a charming and accessible way to celebrate the birthstone of July and participate in the enduring appeal of collectible plush toys.