Ruby, the vibrant red gemstone that holds a place of honor as the July birthstone, is often referred to as the "king of gemstones." This accolade is not unfounded; ruby has been cherished for centuries for its fiery hue, exceptional durability, and rich historical significance. It is a gemstone that has captivated royalty and commoners alike, symbolizing love, power, and vitality. This article will explore the ruby’s geological properties, its historical journey to becoming a birthstone, the symbolism and metaphysical beliefs associated with it, and practical advice for its care and maintenance.
History and Lore
The history of ruby is as rich and colorful as the gemstone itself. The name "ruby" originates from the Latin word ruber, meaning "red," a fitting description for a gemstone known for its intense crimson color. In ancient times, ruby was considered one of the most precious gemstones, often associated with divine power and protection. In India, ruby was referred to as the "king of precious stones," a title that reflects its rarity, hardness (second only to diamond), and beauty. The gemstone was believed to possess mystical powers and was used in jewelry to symbolize power and youthful energy.
Burmese culture held ruby in particularly high regard. The Burmese monarchy was so enamored with the gemstone that the king was known as the "Lord of the Rubies." Large ruby stones were considered the property of the crown, and miners were required to surrender any significant finds to the royal family. This practice made Burma a primary supplier of rubies for centuries, with the gemstone becoming a symbol of national pride.
In medieval Europe, ruby was believed to bestow health, wisdom, wealth, and success in love. Warriors carried rubies into battle, believing that the gemstone made them invincible. The gemstone was also thought to have the power to predict danger and cure inflammatory diseases. These beliefs highlight the ruby’s deep cultural significance and its role as a protective talisman.
Ruby’s association with royalty and divine favor is further evidenced by its presence in royal crowns and jewelry. The gemstone’s fiery color and brilliance made it a symbol of power and divine right, often worn by monarchs to signify their authority. Today, ruby continues to be a symbol of passion and vitality, making it a popular choice for those born in July.
Geological Formation and Sources
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The gemstone’s characteristic red color is due to the presence of trace amounts of chromium. The more chromium present, the deeper and richer the red hue. The most prized ruby color is known as "pigeon’s blood," a deep red with a slight purplish overtone that is highly sought after in the gemstone trade.
The formation of ruby occurs under specific geological conditions. Corundum, the mineral from which ruby is derived, forms in metamorphic rocks when aluminum-rich minerals are subjected to high temperatures and pressures. The presence of chromium during this process gives the gemstone its distinctive red color. Ruby is typically found in igneous and metamorphic rock formations, with the most famous deposits located in Myanmar (formerly Burma), Thailand, India, and Sri Lanka.
Myanmar has historically been the most important source of high-quality ruby. The Mogok Stone Tract in central Myanmar is particularly renowned for producing rubies with the coveted "pigeon’s blood" color. Other notable ruby-producing regions include Thailand, where rubies are found in the Chanthaburi and Trang provinces, and India, where ruby deposits are located in the state of Rajasthan. More recently, ruby has also been discovered in Mozambique, which has emerged as a significant source of fine rubies in the 21st century.
The mining of ruby is a complex and labor-intensive process. Due to the gemstone’s historical value and the difficulty of locating high-quality stones, ruby mining has often been a closely guarded industry. In some regions, ruby mining has been restricted or controlled by governments to ensure the protection of natural resources and to prevent illegal trade. Despite these challenges, ruby remains one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world.
Gemological Properties
Ruby is one of the four most prized precious gemstones, along with diamond, emerald, and sapphire. Its exceptional hardness and durability make it an ideal gemstone for everyday wear. On the Mohs Hardness Scale, ruby scores a 9, second only to diamond. This hardness means that ruby is resistant to scratches and can withstand daily wear without losing its luster. However, like all gemstones, ruby is not impervious to damage. It has a hexagonal crystal structure and can be susceptible to cleavage along certain planes, which means that it can chip or fracture if struck with sufficient force.
Ruby’s refractive index, which measures how light bends as it passes through the gemstone, ranges between 1.76 and 1.78. This high refractive index contributes to ruby’s brilliance and fire, making it one of the most visually striking gemstones. The gemstone’s color is also affected by its cut, as the way a ruby is shaped can enhance or diminish its color and sparkle. A well-cut ruby will display a deep, vivid red color and a brilliant, fiery luster.
In terms of clarity, ruby is typically found with inclusions, which are natural imperfections that form during the gemstone’s creation. These inclusions can range from small crystals to feathers and are often considered part of the gemstone’s character. High-quality rubies are those that have a good balance between color and clarity, with minimal visible inclusions that do not detract from the gemstone’s overall appearance.
Ruby is also known for its pleochroism, a property that allows the gemstone to display different colors when viewed from different angles. In the case of ruby, it can appear slightly different in color depending on the angle of light, adding to its visual complexity and allure.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, ruby has been associated with a wide range of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. In many cultures, ruby is seen as a symbol of love, passion, and vitality. Its deep red color is often linked to the heart and is believed to represent the life force and energy of the body. In ancient India, ruby was considered a powerful gemstone that could enhance one’s vitality and bring success in love and business.
In medieval Europe, ruby was believed to have protective properties. It was thought to ward off evil spirits and provide its wearer with courage and strength. Some sources suggest that ruby was used in talismans to predict danger and to protect against illness. These beliefs highlight the gemstone’s role as a protective and empowering stone.
Ruby is also associated with wealth and prosperity. In some cultures, it was believed that wearing ruby could attract financial success and abundance. This belief may have contributed to ruby’s popularity among the wealthy and powerful, who sought to surround themselves with the gemstone to enhance their fortunes.
In addition to its protective and prosperous qualities, ruby is often linked to courage and determination. The gemstone’s fiery color and enduring strength have made it a symbol of bravery and resilience. In many cultures, ruby has been used in jewelry to inspire confidence and to encourage the wearer to face life’s challenges with strength and determination.
Modern metaphysical beliefs continue to attribute powerful properties to ruby. It is considered a stone of passion and is often recommended for those seeking to enhance their romantic lives or to reignite their sense of purpose. Ruby is also believed to stimulate the heart chakra, promoting emotional healing and strengthening the connection between the heart and mind.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its high hardness and durability, ruby is a gemstone that can be worn daily with proper care. However, like all gemstones, it requires regular cleaning and maintenance to preserve its beauty and longevity. Ruby’s hardness makes it resistant to scratches, but it is still susceptible to damage from impact, especially along its cleavage planes.
When cleaning ruby jewelry, it is recommended to use mild soap and warm water. A soft brush can be used to gently remove dirt and debris from the gemstone and its setting. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can potentially damage the gemstone or its setting. Steam cleaners should also be avoided, as they can cause thermal shock and damage the ruby.
Ruby should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. A soft pouch or a jewelry box with individual compartments is ideal for storing ruby jewelry. When not in use, ruby should be kept in a cool, dry place to prevent exposure to extreme temperatures and humidity, which can affect the gemstone’s color and clarity.
In addition to regular cleaning, it is important to have ruby jewelry inspected by a professional jeweler periodically. This is especially important for pieces with delicate settings or intricate designs, as these can be more prone to damage. A jeweler can also provide advice on the best ways to care for ruby jewelry based on its specific characteristics.
Conclusion
Ruby, the July birthstone, is a gemstone of exceptional beauty and enduring significance. Its deep red color, symbolic meaning, and historical importance make it a cherished gemstone that has captivated people for centuries. From its geological formation in the earth’s crust to its role in royal jewelry and metaphysical beliefs, ruby continues to be a symbol of love, power, and vitality. With its high hardness and durability, ruby is an ideal gemstone for everyday wear, and with proper care, it can be enjoyed for generations.
Whether worn as a piece of fine jewelry or as a meaningful gift, ruby remains a timeless treasure that connects us to our past and inspires us in the present. Its fiery brilliance and rich history ensure that ruby will continue to be a beloved gemstone for years to come.