The ruby, known as the “king of gemstones,” holds a place of prestige in the world of gemology and has long been cherished as the birthstone for July. This vibrant red gemstone has captured the hearts of jewelers, historians, and gemstone enthusiasts for centuries. Its deep red hue, symbolic power, and geological rarity make it one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world. This article delves into the rich history, gemological properties, cultural significance, and practical care of the ruby, offering a comprehensive guide to this timeless gem.
History and Lore
Ruby has been revered across cultures and civilizations for millennia. In ancient India, ruby was known as ratnaraj, meaning "king of precious stones." It was believed to possess protective powers and was often worn by warriors before battle to ensure victory and strength. In medieval Europe, rubies were associated with wealth, nobility, and divine favor. Royal crowns and regalia often featured these precious stones, symbolizing power and authority. One historical reference from a 19th-century French book titled Lapidaire en Vers describes the ruby as a divine gift, stating that it was placed on the high priest Aaron’s neck by Christ’s command.
In Germany, ruby was known as Donnerkeil, meaning "thunderbolt," a nod to the belief that rubies were formed by lightning strikes or other celestial phenomena. Roman philosopher and military leader Pliny the Elder theorized that rubies were of igneous origin, shaped by the fiery forces of the Earth. These early beliefs highlight the ruby’s enduring mystique and its role as a symbol of divine and earthly power.
The ruby’s status as the July birthstone is well established in modern times. As noted in various sources, ruby is officially recognized as the birthstone for July, alongside other traditional and alternative gemstones like sardonyx, sapphire, onyx, and carnelian. This month also marks the birth of several notable personalities, including Tom Cruise, Margot Robbie, and Eva Green, all of whom might share in the ruby’s symbolic energy of passion and vitality.
Geological Formation and Sources
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). Corundum is the same mineral that produces sapphires, with the primary difference being the trace elements that determine the gemstone’s color. In the case of rubies, the presence of chromium or vanadium imparts their signature red hue. The most desirable rubies exhibit a pure red or slightly purplish-red color, known as pigeon’s blood, a term often used in the gem trade to describe the most valuable stones.
Rubies form deep within the Earth’s crust under intense heat and pressure, typically in metamorphic rocks such as marble or in igneous rocks like basalt. Over millions of years, the interaction of aluminum, oxygen, and trace elements creates the conditions necessary for ruby crystals to grow. Once formed, these gems are often found in alluvial deposits—rivers and streambeds—where they have been eroded from their original rock formations and transported by water.
Historically, Burma (now Myanmar) was the primary source of high-quality rubies. The country’s Mogok region was particularly famous for producing some of the finest rubies in the world. During the Burmese royal era, the king was referred to as the “Lord of the Rubies,” and miners were required to surrender large gemstones to the crown. Today, while Myanmar still produces some of the finest rubies, other countries such as Thailand, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Mozambique have become significant sources. The discovery of high-quality rubies in Africa has also brought more affordable options to the market.
In addition to natural rubies, lab-grown rubies are now widely available. These are created under controlled conditions that mimic the natural geological processes that form ruby in the Earth. Lab-grown rubies share the same chemical composition and physical properties as their natural counterparts but are often more affordable and have better clarity and color consistency. These synthetic stones are a popular alternative for those seeking ruby jewelry without the high cost of a natural gemstone.
Gemological Properties
The ruby is not only admired for its beauty but also for its exceptional durability. On the Mohs Hardness Scale, which measures a gemstone's resistance to scratching, ruby ranks a 9 out of 10, making it one of the hardest gemstones in the world—second only to the diamond. This hardness means that ruby jewelry can withstand daily wear and maintain its brilliance over time, making it an excellent choice for rings, bracelets, and other frequently worn pieces.
In addition to its hardness, ruby is relatively resistant to common types of damage, such as chipping or cracking. However, like all corundum, ruby has a hexagonal crystal structure, which can result in a directional cleavage. This means that while rubies are tough, they can be more susceptible to breakage if struck along specific planes. Therefore, it is important to handle ruby jewelry with care, especially when it is set in rings or pendants.
The refractive index of ruby ranges between 1.76 and 1.78, contributing to its brilliance and sparkle. The gemstone exhibits strong pleochroism, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. This effect is particularly noticeable in rubies with a purplish or orangish undertone, which can appear more pink or brown depending on the light and viewing angle.
In terms of color, the most valuable rubies are those with a vivid red to slightly purplish-red hue. The presence of a secondary color, such as blue or orange, can enhance or detract from the stone’s value depending on the specific shade. Rubies with a yellowish or brownish tint are generally less desirable and command lower prices. The saturation and tone of the color also play a crucial role in determining a ruby’s value, with deep, rich colors being the most prized.
The clarity of a ruby is another important factor in its valuation. While rubies can have inclusions—natural flaws that form during the crystal’s growth—these are often considered characteristics of authenticity rather than defects. However, a ruby with excessive inclusions may be less valuable than one with fewer, or a lab-grown ruby with consistent clarity. Jewelry-grade rubies typically have moderate inclusions that are not visible to the naked eye.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, ruby has been associated with a range of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. In many cultures, ruby is seen as a stone of passion, vitality, and courage. Its deep red color is often linked to the heart and emotions, making it a popular gemstone in jewelry meant to express love and devotion. In some traditions, rubies are believed to protect the wearer from harm, bring good fortune, and enhance spiritual awareness.
In ancient India, ruby was considered a powerful protective stone, especially for warriors. It was believed to bring strength, courage, and success in battle. In medieval Europe, rubies were associated with the royal bloodline, symbolizing power, nobility, and divine favor. Kings and queens often wore ruby jewelry as a sign of their status and connection to the divine.
In modern times, ruby is still revered for its symbolic power. It is often given as a gift for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions, especially for those born in July. The gemstone is also associated with the zodiac sign Taurus and is considered a birthstone with strong emotional and energetic properties. Some believe that wearing a ruby can help the wearer manifest their desires, boost their confidence, and enhance their creativity.
While these metaphysical beliefs are not scientifically proven, they reflect the deep cultural and historical significance of the ruby. Whether worn for its beauty, durability, or symbolic meaning, the ruby continues to be a cherished gemstone around the world.
Care and Cleaning
Given its hardness and durability, ruby is one of the most practical gemstones for everyday wear. However, like all gemstones, it requires proper care to maintain its brilliance and longevity.
To clean ruby jewelry, a mild soap solution and a soft brush are generally sufficient. A warm water and dish soap mixture can be used to gently scrub the gemstone and remove dirt and grime. After cleaning, the gemstone should be rinsed thoroughly with warm water and dried with a soft, lint-free cloth.
It is important to avoid harsh chemicals, such as bleach or ammonia, which can damage the gemstone or the metal setting. Ultrasonic cleaners can be used for ruby, but care must be taken if the gemstone has a fracture-filled or treated appearance, as the vibrations may cause damage to the treatment.
When storing ruby jewelry, it is best to keep the pieces separate to prevent scratches from harder gemstones. Storing ruby in a soft cloth or jewelry box with compartments can help protect it from damage. Additionally, avoid exposing ruby to extreme temperatures or sudden temperature changes, as this can cause thermal shock and potentially damage the stone.
Conclusion
The ruby is a gemstone of remarkable beauty, history, and symbolism. As the birthstone for July, it represents passion, vitality, and strength, making it a meaningful and enduring choice for those born in this month. Its geological rarity, combined with its durability and rich color, ensures that ruby remains one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.
From its ancient roots as the ratnaraj of India to its role in royal regalia in Europe, ruby has always been associated with power, protection, and divine favor. Whether worn as a ring, necklace, bracelet, or earrings, ruby jewelry is not only a fashion statement but also a connection to the deep cultural and historical traditions that have revered this gem for centuries.
For those who choose to wear ruby, it is more than just a gemstone—it is a symbol of passion, courage, and enduring beauty. Whether natural or lab-grown, ruby continues to captivate and inspire, making it a timeless treasure in the world of gemology.