The July birthstone, ruby, is one of the most cherished and historically significant gemstones in the world of jewelry. Known for its deep red color and symbolic associations with passion, vitality, and protection, ruby has long been a favorite among jewelers and collectors. In the context of Kendra Scott, a brand celebrated for its elegant and timeless designs, ruby takes center stage in several exquisite pieces, including the Marisa 14k Yellow Gold Oval Solitaire Pendant Necklace. This article explores the gemological properties, historical significance, and cultural symbolism of ruby, as well as its role in Kendra Scott's fine jewelry collection.
History and Lore
Ruby, a variety of the mineral corundum, has been revered for centuries across various cultures. Its rich red color, often attributed to the presence of chromium, has made it a symbol of love, power, and divine energy. In ancient times, ruby was believed to possess protective qualities and was often worn by warriors and leaders to ward off danger and inspire courage. In many Eastern cultures, ruby is considered a sacred stone, associated with the sun and often used in religious and ceremonial contexts.
In Western history, ruby has been prized by royalty and nobility. European monarchs, for instance, often set rubies in their crowns and regalia, signifying their status and divine right to rule. The stone's association with the heart and life force made it a popular gift for lovers and a favored gem in romantic jewelry.
In the context of birthstones, ruby has been recognized as the July birthstone for many decades. This designation reflects its enduring appeal and the belief in its positive influence on those born in this month. Kendra Scott, a designer known for her innovative and elegant creations, has embraced ruby as a key element in her fine jewelry line, incorporating it into pieces that celebrate both its beauty and its symbolic meaning.
Geological Formation and Sources
Ruby is a type of corundum, a mineral composed primarily of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The intense red color of ruby is due to trace amounts of chromium or, less commonly, vanadium. Corundum in general is known for its hardness, ranking at 9 on the Mohs scale, which makes it highly durable and suitable for use in jewelry. The formation of ruby requires specific geological conditions, including high pressure and temperature, which are typically found in metamorphic rock environments.
The most famous sources of ruby are in Southeast Asia, particularly in Myanmar (formerly Burma), Thailand, and Sri Lanka. Burmese rubies, especially those from the Mogok region, are considered some of the finest in the world due to their intense red color and high clarity. These rubies are often referred to as "pigeon's blood" rubies, a term used to describe their vivid, almost blood-like hue. Other significant sources include India, Vietnam, and Madagascar, each producing rubies with their own unique characteristics.
In Kendra Scott's jewelry, rubies are sourced from reputable and ethical suppliers, ensuring that the stones used in her designs are of high quality and responsibly obtained. The Marisa 14k Yellow Gold Oval Solitaire Pendant Necklace, for example, features a ruby that exemplifies the gemstone's natural beauty and brilliance. The careful selection of such stones reflects Kendra Scott's commitment to excellence and her dedication to creating pieces that are both aesthetically pleasing and meaningful.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of ruby are a key factor in its enduring popularity. As a corundum, ruby is one of the hardest naturally occurring minerals, second only to diamond on the Mohs scale. This hardness makes it highly resistant to scratches and wear, which is particularly important for gemstones used in jewelry that is worn regularly.
The refractive index of ruby ranges from 1.76 to 1.78, which contributes to its brilliance and fire. When cut and polished properly, ruby can display a remarkable luster and a deep, saturated color. The clarity of ruby can vary, with some stones being almost flawless and others containing inclusions that are characteristic of natural gemstones. These inclusions, often referred to as "silk," can enhance the stone's beauty by giving it a velvety appearance.
Ruby is also known for its pleochroism, a property that allows it to display different colors when viewed from different angles. While the dominant red color is most commonly seen, some rubies can exhibit a secondary color, such as blue or purple, depending on the lighting and the angle of observation. This unique optical property adds to the stone's allure and makes each ruby a one-of-a-kind gem.
In terms of carat weight, ruby can be found in a wide range of sizes, from small gemstones used in delicate jewelry to larger, more impressive specimens that are showcased in statement pieces. The value of a ruby is influenced by several factors, including its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Stones with a deep red color and high clarity are the most valuable, while those with a lighter or purplish hue may be less sought after.
Kendra Scott's use of ruby in her fine jewelry collection highlights the gemstone's exceptional qualities. The Marisa 14k Yellow Gold Oval Solitaire Pendant Necklace, for instance, features a ruby that has been carefully selected for its color, clarity, and cut. The setting, crafted in 14k yellow gold, complements the ruby's warm red hue and enhances its brilliance. The combination of the gemstone's natural beauty and the craftsmanship of the design results in a piece that is both elegant and timeless.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Ruby has long been associated with a range of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. In many cultures, it is believed to represent passion, love, and vitality. The stone is often referred to as the "king of gems" and is associated with the heart chakra, which is linked to emotions, love, and compassion. It is believed to enhance feelings of love and strengthen relationships, making it a popular choice for romantic jewelry.
In addition to its associations with love, ruby is also believed to have protective qualities. Ancient warriors and leaders often carried rubies into battle, believing that the stone would protect them from harm and inspire courage. This belief in ruby's protective power has persisted over the centuries, with many people still wearing ruby as a talisman for safety and strength.
Ruby is also associated with vitality and energy. It is believed to stimulate the body's energy and enhance physical strength, making it a popular gemstone for those seeking to improve their health and well-being. Some cultures also believe that ruby can help to dispel negative thoughts and emotions, promoting a sense of optimism and positivity.
In the context of birthstones, ruby is considered a powerful and auspicious stone for those born in July. It is believed to bring good fortune, protection, and vitality to individuals born in this month. Kendra Scott's use of ruby in her fine jewelry collection reflects this belief, as the gemstone's symbolic meaning adds depth and significance to the pieces she creates.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its high hardness and durability, ruby is a relatively easy gemstone to care for. However, proper maintenance is essential to preserve its beauty and longevity. Ruby can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the stone or its setting.
Ruby should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. A soft pouch or a lined jewelry box is ideal for storing ruby jewelry. It is also advisable to remove ruby jewelry before engaging in activities that could expose it to impact or chemicals, such as swimming, exercising, or applying cosmetics.
Kendra Scott provides specific care instructions for her jewelry, including pieces featuring ruby. The company recommends removing jewelry before washing hands, swimming, or applying personal care products to avoid exposure to soaps, lotions, and other substances that can dull the gemstone's luster. Additionally, Kendra Scott emphasizes the importance of using rubber or metal safety backs with earrings to prevent loss.
For more detailed care instructions, Kendra Scott offers a comprehensive guide on how to maintain the shine and beauty of her jewelry. This includes advice on how to clean and store different types of jewelry, as well as tips for avoiding damage and extending the life of the pieces. By following these guidelines, owners of Kendra Scott's ruby jewelry can ensure that their pieces remain as beautiful and vibrant as the day they were purchased.
Conclusion
Ruby, as the July birthstone, is a gemstone of profound beauty, historical significance, and symbolic meaning. Its deep red color, high hardness, and unique optical properties make it one of the most cherished gemstones in the world of jewelry. From ancient times to the present day, ruby has been associated with love, vitality, and protection, making it a popular choice for both personal adornment and meaningful gifts.
Kendra Scott's fine jewelry collection showcases the timeless appeal of ruby, incorporating the gemstone into elegant and meaningful designs. The Marisa 14k Yellow Gold Oval Solitaire Pendant Necklace is a prime example of how ruby's natural beauty can be enhanced through careful craftsmanship and thoughtful design. By selecting high-quality rubies and setting them in beautiful, durable settings, Kendra Scott creates pieces that are not only visually stunning but also rich in meaning and significance.
Whether worn as a personal adornment or given as a gift, ruby jewelry from Kendra Scott is a celebration of the gemstone's enduring appeal. Its vibrant color, symbolic meaning, and exceptional durability make it a treasured addition to any jewelry collection. For those born in July or those who simply appreciate the beauty of ruby, Kendra Scott's creations offer a perfect way to experience the magic of this remarkable gemstone.