The July birthstone, ruby, is a gemstone of remarkable beauty and rich history. Known for its deep red color, ruby has captivated humans for centuries. As the birthstone for July, ruby is associated with passion, vitality, and courage. This article explores the historical and cultural significance of ruby, its gemological properties, and its role in modern jewelry, particularly in bar necklaces. Drawing from reliable sources, we will uncover the enduring allure of this precious gemstone.
History and Lore of Ruby
Ruby, the July birthstone, has a long and storied history that spans across cultures and continents. In ancient times, ruby was considered a powerful gemstone, believed to bring protection, prosperity, and good fortune. In many Asian cultures, ruby was revered as the "King of Gems" due to its deep red color and its association with the sun and vitality.
In the ancient world, ruby was highly valued in India, where it was believed to be a symbol of the life force or "prana." Indian texts from the 1st century CE mention ruby as a gemstone of great importance, often associated with the planet Mars. This association with Mars contributed to the belief that ruby could bring courage and strength to its wearer.
During the Middle Ages, ruby was considered a symbol of the heart and was often used in religious artifacts and royal regalia. European monarchs, including those of England and France, adorned their crowns and scepters with rubies to symbolize power, wisdom, and divine favor. The ruby's deep red color was also linked to the blood of Christ, making it a significant gemstone in Christian iconography.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, ruby gained popularity in Europe, particularly in England and France. The gemstone was often set in elaborate jewelry pieces, including rings, pendants, and brooches. The discovery of ruby deposits in Burma (now Myanmar) in the 19th century further increased its availability and desirability. Burma became known for producing some of the finest rubies in the world, with the "Pigeon's Blood" ruby being the most prized variety.
Geological Formation and Sources of Ruby
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). What distinguishes ruby from other corundum varieties, such as sapphire, is the presence of trace amounts of chromium, which gives ruby its characteristic red color. The intensity of the red color can vary depending on the concentration of chromium and other trace elements.
Ruby forms in metamorphic rocks, particularly in marble and in the alluvial deposits where it has been eroded from its primary source and transported by water. The most famous and historically significant ruby deposits are found in Myanmar, where the gemstone has been mined for centuries. The rubies from Myanmar are known for their deep red color and excellent clarity, making them highly sought after in the gemstone market.
Other notable ruby-producing countries include Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Tanzania. Each of these locations produces rubies with slightly different characteristics. For example, Thai rubies tend to have a slightly purplish hue, while Tanzanian rubies are often more orangish-red. Despite these variations, the most highly valued rubies are those that exhibit a pure, deep red color without any noticeable secondary hues.
Ruby is typically found in alluvial deposits, where it has been eroded from its original source and transported by water. This makes ruby relatively accessible for mining, as it can often be found in riverbeds and other alluvial settings. However, the process of extracting ruby from these deposits can be labor-intensive and requires skilled miners.
Gemological Properties of Ruby
Ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This high hardness makes ruby durable and suitable for use in a variety of jewelry applications, including rings, pendants, and earrings. Despite its hardness, ruby is not indestructible and can be scratched by diamonds, which rank 10 on the Mohs scale.
The refractive index of ruby is approximately 1.76 to 1.78, which contributes to its brilliance and fire. Ruby has a specific gravity of around 4.00, which is relatively high compared to other gemstones. This high density gives ruby a substantial feel, which is often described as "hefty."
Ruby is typically found in a range of colors, from a deep red to a more orangish-red. The most valuable and sought-after rubies are those that exhibit a pure, deep red color known as "Pigeon's Blood." This term is often used to describe the finest rubies from Myanmar, which have a deep red color with a slight blue undertone. The presence of inclusions is also an important factor in determining the value of a ruby. While some inclusions can reduce the clarity of a ruby, others can actually enhance its value by providing evidence of its natural origin.
Ruby is often cut in a variety of styles, including the emerald cut, round brilliant cut, and cushion cut. The choice of cut depends on the shape and size of the rough stone, as well as the desired aesthetic. In modern jewelry, ruby is often set in silver or gold settings, with the gemstone's deep red color contrasting beautifully with the metal.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Ruby has long been associated with a range of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. In many cultures, ruby is considered a stone of passion, vitality, and courage. It is often referred to as the "stone of kings" due to its historical association with royalty and power.
In ancient India, ruby was believed to be a symbol of the life force or "prana." It was thought to bring energy, vitality, and protection to the wearer. In Ayurvedic traditions, ruby was associated with the heart chakra and was believed to promote love, compassion, and emotional healing.
In medieval Europe, ruby was considered a symbol of the heart and was often used in religious artifacts and royal regalia. It was believed to bring good fortune, protect against illness, and promote wisdom and clarity. Ruby was also associated with the planet Mars, which contributed to the belief that it could bring courage and strength to its wearer.
In modern times, ruby continues to be associated with passion, love, and vitality. It is often given as a gift to celebrate love and commitment, particularly on anniversaries. Ruby is also believed to have protective properties and is often worn as a talisman to ward off negative energies and promote a sense of security and confidence.
Care and Cleaning of Ruby
Due to its high hardness and durability, ruby is relatively easy to care for compared to other gemstones. However, there are some precautions that should be taken to ensure the longevity of ruby jewelry.
Ruby should be cleaned regularly to maintain its brilliance and fire. A simple solution of warm, soapy water and a soft cloth is usually sufficient for cleaning ruby. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone's surface or the setting. Ultrasonic cleaners can also be used to clean ruby, but care should be taken to ensure that the gemstone is free of any structural weaknesses that could be exacerbated by the vibrations.
When storing ruby jewelry, it is best to keep it in a soft cloth or a jewelry box to prevent scratches. Ruby can be scratched by diamonds, so it is important to store ruby jewelry separately from other gemstones that are harder. It is also advisable to remove ruby jewelry before engaging in activities that could expose it to impact or abrasion.
Ruby is generally resistant to heat, but it is best to avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures. Sudden changes in temperature can cause stress in the gemstone, potentially leading to cracks or other damage. It is also advisable to avoid exposing ruby to prolonged periods of direct sunlight, as this can cause the gemstone to fade or lose its luster over time.
Ruby in Modern Jewelry: Bar Necklaces
In modern jewelry, ruby is a popular choice for a variety of pieces, including rings, earrings, and pendants. One particularly elegant and versatile piece is the ruby bar necklace, which features a ruby set in a sleek, minimalist design. These necklaces are often made from sterling silver 925, a durable and hypoallergenic metal that complements the deep red color of ruby beautifully.
Ruby bar necklaces are available in a range of chain lengths and designs. For example, some necklaces feature a double beaded design, which adds texture and visual interest to the piece. Others have a simple, streamlined design that emphasizes the beauty of the ruby. The choice of chain length can also affect the overall look of the necklace, with longer chains creating a more dramatic effect while shorter chains offer a more delicate and subtle appearance.
The use of ruby in bar necklaces is particularly popular as a way to celebrate the July birthstone. These necklaces are often given as gifts to mark special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, and other milestones. The deep red color of ruby makes it a bold and eye-catching statement piece, while the minimalist design of the bar necklace ensures that it can be worn with both casual and formal attire.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, ruby bar necklaces also carry symbolic significance. Ruby is associated with passion, vitality, and courage, making it a meaningful choice for those who wear it. The sleek and modern design of the bar necklace also makes it a versatile and timeless piece that can be enjoyed for years to come.
Conclusion
The July birthstone, ruby, is a gemstone of enduring beauty and significance. With a rich history that spans across cultures and centuries, ruby has been revered for its deep red color and its association with power, vitality, and protection. From ancient India to medieval Europe, ruby has played a central role in both royal regalia and religious artifacts. In modern times, ruby continues to be a popular choice for jewelry, particularly in bar necklaces that highlight its bold and elegant appearance.
Ruby's gemological properties, including its high hardness and deep red color, make it a durable and desirable gemstone. Its association with passion, vitality, and courage further enhances its appeal, making it a meaningful choice for those who wear it. Whether set in a classic ring or a modern bar necklace, ruby remains a timeless and captivating gemstone that continues to enchant and inspire.