The ruby, a gemstone renowned for its vivid red color and deep symbolism, holds a special place in the world of birthstones as the July birthstone. Known as the "king of precious stones" in ancient times, ruby is celebrated for its rarity, hardness (second only to diamond), and its association with power, vitality, and passion. This article explores the ruby’s historical significance, geological properties, sources around the globe, and its role in modern jewelry, particularly in July birthstone rings. We also examine the metaphysical beliefs and care instructions associated with this exquisite gemstone.
History and Lore
Ruby’s history is steeped in legend and lore, with its vibrant red hue often symbolizing life, power, and passion. In ancient India, ruby was considered the "king of precious stones" due to its scarcity, beauty, and perceived mystical properties. It was long associated with the life force of blood and was believed to possess the ability to enhance youthfulness and vitality. Warriors in Burma held the belief that rubies made them invincible in battle, and many historical accounts suggest that these stones were worn for protection and strength.
In medieval Europe, ruby was thought to bestow health, wisdom, and success in love. These beliefs were rooted in the gemstone’s deep red color, which was likened to the color of blood—symbolizing life and vitality. Additionally, ruby was traditionally given as a gift for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, further cementing its status as a symbol of enduring love and commitment.
The ruby’s cultural significance has persisted through the centuries, and it continues to be a popular choice for jewelry, especially for those born in July. Its enduring appeal is a testament to its historical and symbolic value.
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 trace amounts of the element chromium. The more chromium present in the crystal structure, the more intense the red hue. The finest rubies exhibit a deep red with a hint of purple, a color known in the trade as "pigeon’s blood." This term refers to a rich, vibrant red that appears to glow under light.
Major Sources of Ruby
Rubies have been mined in various parts of the world for centuries. One of the most famous and historically significant sources is Myanmar (formerly Burma). The Mogok area in Myanmar has produced some of the finest rubies known to the world for over five centuries. These gems are renowned for their vibrant red color and the presence of inclusions that give them a unique appearance. The region is also culturally rich, with ancient Buddhist temples and weathered marble landscapes that contribute to its allure.
In the late 20th century, Vietnam emerged as an important source of high-quality rubies. The Luc Yen region in northern Vietnam is known for its red to purplish-red rubies, while the Quy Chau district has also yielded many fine stones. Artisanal miners in this region work the soil in hopes of uncovering a gemstone that could change their fortunes.
Mozambique is another significant source of rubies, particularly from the Montepuez mines. These rubies have been compared to the famed gems of Mogok due to their similar color and quality. The discovery of ruby deposits in Mozambique has added to the global supply of high-quality rubies and has made the gemstone more accessible to collectors and jewelers.
Other important sources of ruby include Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Tanzania, and Madagascar. These regions have contributed to the global ruby trade, each producing stones with their own unique characteristics and color variations.
Gemological Properties
Ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, ranking a 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This high level of hardness makes ruby highly durable and suitable for everyday wear in jewelry. However, despite its hardness, ruby can be brittle and may have inclusions or fractures that can make it vulnerable to damage under certain conditions.
The chemical composition of ruby is aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃), with the red coloration caused by the presence of chromium. The intensity of the red color is directly related to the concentration of chromium in the crystal structure. The finest rubies exhibit a "pigeon’s blood" red, a term used to describe a deep red with a slight purplish tone.
Ruby’s refractive index is between 1.76 and 1.78, which contributes to its brilliance and fire. The gemstone is typically cut in a variety of styles, including oval, cushion, round, and emerald cuts, to best showcase its color and brilliance. The cut of the ruby plays a crucial role in how light interacts with the stone, enhancing its overall beauty.
Ruby can also contain inclusions, which are natural characteristics formed during the stone’s growth. These inclusions can range from small, barely visible specks to larger, more noticeable features. Some inclusions are considered desirable as they add to the stone’s uniqueness and character, while others may indicate the need for caution when handling the gemstone.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, ruby has been associated with a wide range of symbolic and metaphysical beliefs. 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 it is believed to promote emotional healing and strength. Some traditions hold that ruby can enhance courage, confidence, and a sense of power.
In ancient times, ruby was believed to have protective properties. Warriors in Burma wore rubies for protection in battle, and some cultures believed that the gemstone could predict danger or misfortune. Additionally, ruby was thought to have medicinal properties and was used in traditional remedies to soothe inflammation and reduce anger.
In modern times, ruby is often associated with energy and motivation. It is considered a stone of passion and is believed to stimulate creativity and ambition. Many people wear ruby as a talisman to attract success and good fortune.
Care and Cleaning
Despite its hardness, ruby requires careful handling and cleaning to maintain its beauty and longevity. The gemstone can be sensitive to certain treatments and conditions, and it is important to follow proper care instructions to avoid damage.
Ruby is often heat-treated to enhance its color and remove any purplish undertones, resulting in a purer red hue. This treatment is widely accepted in the gem trade and is generally stable under normal conditions. However, some rubies may undergo lattice diffusion treatment or dyeing to improve their appearance. In lower-quality rubies, surface-reaching fractures and cavities may be filled with glass to improve clarity. These treatments can make the gemstone more vulnerable to damage, and special care must be taken when cleaning and handling such stones.
For general cleaning, rubies can be safely cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are usually safe for untreated, heat-treated, and lattice diffusion-treated rubies. However, glass-filled or dyed rubies should only be cleaned with a damp cloth to avoid damaging the treatment.
It is important to be aware of the treatments a ruby has undergone before purchasing it. The Federal Trade Commission requires disclosure of treatments that affect a gemstone’s perceived value, and a GIA Identification Report can provide valuable information about a ruby’s origin and treatment history.
When storing ruby jewelry, it is best to keep it separate from other gemstones to prevent scratches and damage. Rubies should also be protected from harsh chemicals, including perfumes, hairsprays, and other household cleaners, which can dull their luster and affect their appearance.
Conclusion
The ruby, as the July birthstone, is a gemstone of deep significance and beauty. Its rich red color, symbolic meaning, and historical importance have made it a cherished gemstone for centuries. From its origins in the mines of Myanmar to its modern-day role in July birthstone rings, ruby continues to captivate and inspire. Whether worn for its beauty, its cultural significance, or its metaphysical properties, ruby remains a timeless and treasured gemstone.
Understanding the geological properties, sources, and care requirements of ruby is essential for anyone who owns or is considering purchasing ruby jewelry. By following proper care and maintenance guidelines, ruby jewelry can be enjoyed for generations, preserving its beauty and value.