Ruby, the radiant red gemstone, has long captivated humanity with its deep, fiery hue and rich historical legacy. Revered as the birthstone for the month of July, ruby is more than just a symbol of love and vitality; it is a gemstone steeped in myth, power, and cultural significance. This article delves into the multifaceted nature of ruby, exploring its geological formation, historical and cultural importance, gemological properties, and practical care tips.
Introduction
Ruby is the birthstone for July and is celebrated for its intense red color, derived from the Latin word ruber, meaning “red.” Known as the “king of precious stones” in ancient India and prized by royalty across many cultures, ruby has long been associated with passion, power, and protection. Its rarity, coupled with its hardness—second only to diamond—has made it one of the most valuable colored gemstones in the world.
This article will explore the historical and cultural significance of ruby, its geological formation and sources, its gemological properties, and the metaphysical beliefs attributed to it. Additionally, we will provide guidance on the proper care and cleaning of ruby jewelry to ensure its longevity and brilliance.
History and Lore
Ancient Significance and Cultural Symbolism
Ruby has been treasured for millennia, with its earliest known use dating back to ancient civilizations. In India, ruby was known as ratnaraj, or “king of gemstones,” a title that reflects its esteemed status. Indian jewelers regarded ruby as a symbol of power and youthful energy, often associating it with the life force of blood. Ancient texts and oral traditions highlight ruby as a stone of vitality and courage.
In Burmese culture, ruby was believed to bring invincibility in battle, with warriors wearing the gemstone into combat. Some historical accounts suggest that the Burmese Crown maintained a monopoly over ruby mining, with the king referred to as the “Lord of the Rubies.” The Burmese Mogok region, in particular, has been a significant source of high-quality rubies for over 500 years.
Ancient Roman and Greek scholars also documented their fascination with ruby. Pliny the Elder, a Roman philosopher and naturalist, theorized that rubies were formed by fire from the heavens, or lightning. This belief led to the German name for ruby, Donnerkeil, meaning “thunderbolt.” In medieval Europe, ruby was thought to possess the power to predict danger or misfortune, while also having the ability to cure inflammatory diseases and soothe anger.
Modern Relevance
In the 19th century, ruby continued to be celebrated in literature and poetry. One notable example is the French book Lapidaire en Vers, which poetically describes ruby as a gemstone placed by Christ on the high priest Aaron’s chest, symbolizing divine authority and protection.
In modern times, ruby remains the official birthstone for July and is often associated with qualities such as passion, love, and vitality. It is also considered a powerful symbol of protection and courage, making it a popular choice for jewelry, especially for those born in July.
Geological Formation and Sources
What Makes a Ruby a Ruby?
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, the same mineral family that includes sapphire. In its pure form, corundum is colorless, but the presence of trace elements can alter its color. Ruby gets its signature red color from chromium, which is introduced into the crystal lattice during formation. The intensity of the red color depends on the amount of chromium present, with the most valuable rubies exhibiting a deep, vibrant red or a slightly purplish red hue.
The formation of ruby occurs under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions deep within the Earth’s crust. These conditions allow for the growth of ruby crystals over millions of years. The presence of other minerals and geological factors can influence the final appearance and quality of the gemstone.
Key Sources of Ruby
Myanmar (formerly Burma) is one of the most historically significant sources of ruby. The Mogok area in particular is renowned for producing some of the finest rubies in the world. These gems are often characterized by their vibrant red color, enhanced by light-scattering inclusions and a glowing red fluorescence.
In addition to Myanmar, ruby is also found in other parts of the world, including Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and more recently, parts of Africa. The discovery of ruby deposits in Africa has led to an increase in the availability of natural rubies at more affordable prices. This has expanded the market for ruby jewelry and made the gemstone more accessible to a wider audience.
Lab-Grown Rubies
Lab-grown ruby has been available in the jewelry market since the early 20th century. These gems are chemically identical to their natural counterparts but are created in controlled environments. Lab-grown rubies often exhibit better clarity and color uniformity than natural rubies of similar price, making them an attractive option for those seeking high-quality ruby jewelry without the premium price tag.
Despite the growing popularity of lab-grown ruby, many consumers still prefer natural rubies for their unique inclusions and the romantic notion of their formation within the Earth over millions of years.
Gemological Properties
Color and Clarity
The most desirable rubies are those with a deep red to slightly purplish-red color. This hue is often referred to as "pigeon blood" and is considered the most valuable. The presence of chromium not only affects the color but also contributes to the gemstone’s fluorescence, which can enhance its brilliance.
Clarity in ruby is typically evaluated based on the presence of inclusions. While most rubies contain inclusions, these are often considered part of their character and can even be used to determine their origin. For example, rubies from Myanmar often display silk-like inclusions that scatter light, giving the gem a soft, glowing appearance.
Hardness and Durability
Ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. This makes it highly durable and suitable for everyday wear in jewelry. However, it is important to note that ruby can have cleavage planes, which can make it susceptible to chipping if struck at the right angle. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid subjecting ruby jewelry to impact or abrasion.
Chemical and Physical Properties
Ruby is composed primarily of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) with trace amounts of chromium. Its refractive index ranges between 1.76 and 1.78, which contributes to its brilliance and fire. The gemstone is also birefringent, meaning it can split light into two rays as it passes through the crystal structure. This property can be observed in some ruby cuts and can affect the gem’s optical performance.
Cutting and Carat
Rubies are typically cut to enhance their color and brilliance. The most common cuts include the emerald cut, round brilliant cut, and pear cut. The choice of cut depends on the shape and quality of the rough gemstone, as well as the desired final appearance.
In terms of carat weight, rubies come in a wide range, from small accent stones to large centerpieces in high-end jewelry. The value of a ruby is influenced by its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight, with larger, high-quality rubies commanding extremely high prices in the market.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Ruby in Different Cultures
Ruby has been attributed with various symbolic and metaphysical properties across different cultures. In ancient India, ruby was believed to bring vitality, protection, and success in love and leadership. It was often worn by royalty and warriors as a talisman of power and courage.
In Europe, ruby was associated with love and passion. It was believed to bring good fortune and to strengthen the bond between lovers. Some historical accounts suggest that ruby was used in engagement rings and as a symbol of eternal love.
In the East, ruby was considered a symbol of prosperity and was often used in feng shui and other spiritual practices to enhance energy flow and promote positive change.
Modern Metaphysical Beliefs
In modern gemstone therapy, ruby is considered a powerful stone that stimulates the heart and encourages emotional healing. It is believed to enhance vitality, reduce stress, and promote a sense of inner strength and courage. Ruby is also associated with the root chakra, which is linked to grounding and stability.
Ruby is often used in jewelry not only for its beauty but also for its supposed metaphysical properties. Many people wear ruby as a protective stone, believing it to ward off negative energy and promote positive change in their lives.
Care and Cleaning
Daily Care
To maintain the beauty and longevity of ruby jewelry, it is important to handle it with care. Avoid exposing ruby to harsh chemicals, such as household cleaners or perfumes, as these can dull its surface. It is also advisable to remove ruby jewelry before engaging in activities that could cause physical impact, such as sports or manual labor.
Cleaning Methods
Ruby can be cleaned using mild soap and warm water. Gently scrub the gemstone with a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt and debris. After cleaning, rinse the gemstone thoroughly and pat it dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as these can potentially damage the gemstone, especially if it has inclusions or is set in a delicate setting. If the gemstone has been treated or enhanced, it is best to consult a professional jeweler for cleaning advice.
Storage
When not in use, store ruby jewelry in a soft, breathable pouch or a jewelry box with compartments to prevent scratches and damage. Avoid stacking ruby jewelry on top of other gemstones, as this can cause abrasions.
Professional Maintenance
For valuable ruby pieces, it is recommended to have them professionally inspected and cleaned on a regular basis. A qualified jeweler can assess the condition of the gemstone and its setting, ensuring that it remains secure and in good condition over time.
Conclusion
Ruby, the vibrant July birthstone, is a gemstone that has captivated humanity for centuries with its deep red color, historical significance, and powerful symbolism. From its origins in the corundum mineral family to its formation in the Earth’s crust, ruby is a natural wonder that combines beauty, rarity, and durability. Its association with passion, power, and protection has made it a treasured gemstone across many cultures and eras.
Whether as a symbol of love and vitality or as a protective talisman, ruby continues to hold a special place in the world of gemstones. With proper care and appreciation, ruby jewelry can be cherished for generations, passing down its vibrant energy and enduring beauty to future owners.