Ruby, the birthstone of July, is one of the most cherished and historically significant gemstones in the world. Known for its vivid red color and deep symbolism, the ruby has long been associated with love, passion, and strength. As one of the rarest and most valuable gemstones, it ranks second only to diamond in hardness on the Mohs scale, making it a durable and enduring choice for jewelry. The ruby has captivated cultures across centuries, from ancient Burmese warriors to medieval European royalty, and remains a powerful emblem of vitality and protection.
In this article, we explore the ruby’s historical significance, its geological formation, gemological properties, cultural symbolism, and practical care tips. Drawing from the information provided in the sources, we aim to provide a comprehensive and authoritative overview of this remarkable gemstone.
History and Lore
The ruby’s history is as rich and vibrant as its color. The name “ruby” derives from the Latin word rubeus, meaning “red,” and its significance dates back to ancient civilizations. In India, the ruby was known as Ratnaraj, or “king of precious stones,” and was believed to embody the essence of the sun god Surya. Vedic astrologers saw the ruby as a powerful talisman, and it was often offered to Krishna in hopes of divine favor and rebirth as a ruler.
In Burmese culture, the ruby was so revered that it was considered a symbol of invincibility. Warriors of ancient Burma embedded rubies into their skin for protection during battle, and the Burmese king was often called the “Lord of the Rubies,” as he claimed the finest specimens for the royal crown. The Mogok Valley in Myanmar became the primary source of high-quality rubies for over 800 years, with the earliest records dating back to the 6th century AD.
Beyond Asia, the ruby’s allure extended to Europe. In medieval times, it was believed to bring health, wisdom, and success in love. Some even claimed that the ruby could predict danger or cure inflammatory diseases. These beliefs were not merely superstitions but were deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the time.
The ruby’s official status as July’s birthstone was formalized in the early 20th century. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers (now known as Jewelers of America) standardized the list of birthstones, and the ruby was officially designated as the gemstone for July. This formal recognition cemented its place in both traditional and modern gemstone traditions.
The ruby has also been associated with several zodiac signs and angelic symbols. It is the birthstone for those born in July and is linked to the zodiac sign Taurus. According to some traditions, it is also the guardian angel birthstone for March and a sacred gemstone in Hindu traditions for August.
Geological Formation and Sources
The ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed primarily of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). What distinguishes ruby from other corundum varieties, such as sapphire, is the presence of trace amounts of chromium, which gives it its signature red color. The more chromium present, the deeper and richer the red hue becomes. The finest ruby color is known in the trade as “pigeon’s blood,” a deep red with a slight purple undertone.
Rubies form under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s crust, often in metamorphic rock environments. These conditions are most commonly found in regions such as Myanmar (Burma), Vietnam, India, East Africa, the Middle East, Thailand, and the United States. Each region produces rubies with unique characteristics due to differences in geological composition and trace elements.
Myanmar, particularly the Mogok Valley, has been the most historically significant source of high-quality rubies. For centuries, it was the primary supplier of the finest specimens, and large rubies were once a royal monopoly in Burma. Other notable sources include:
- Mozambique: Known for producing vivid red rubies with excellent clarity.
- Madagascar: Produces rubies with a slightly purplish hue.
- Tanzania: Has emerged as a significant ruby source with a distinctive color.
- Vietnam: The Padparadscha ruby, a rare and highly valued pinkish-orange corundum, is sometimes found here.
Rubies are typically mined through alluvial deposits or in hard rock mines. Alluvial rubies are often found in riverbeds and sediment, while hard rock rubies are extracted from deep within the earth, often requiring more advanced mining techniques.
The rarity of high-quality rubies, particularly those with a “pigeon’s blood” color, makes them some of the most valuable gemstones in the world. Their durability, due to their high hardness on the Mohs scale, also makes them ideal for use in jewelry that can be worn daily.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of ruby is essential for both gemologists and jewelry enthusiasts. Rubies are renowned not only for their beauty but also for their physical and optical characteristics. Here is an overview of the key gemological properties of ruby:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Al₂O₃ (with trace chromium for color) |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 9 |
| Refractive Index | 1.76–1.78 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.95–4.10 |
| Color | Red, ranging from deep red to pinkish-red; finest color is known as “pigeon’s blood” |
| Crystal System | Hexagonal |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Cleavage | Basal (perfect) |
| Luminescence | Red under ultraviolet light |
| Common Cuts | Oval, cushion, round, princess, emerald, and pear shapes |
Rubies are typically cut to enhance their brilliance and color. The most popular cuts include the oval and cushion cuts, which maximize light return and showcase the stone’s fiery red color. The ruby’s high refractive index and strong dispersion contribute to its brilliance, making it one of the most visually striking gemstones.
Despite its hardness, ruby has perfect basal cleavage, which means it can be fractured if struck along the right plane. This is an important consideration for both jewelers and wearers, as it means that rubies must be set and handled with care to avoid damage.
The value of a ruby is determined by several factors, including color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. The most valuable rubies are those with a deep red “pigeon’s blood” color, excellent clarity, and a well-proportioned cut. Larger rubies are extremely rare and can command high prices in the market.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, the ruby has been imbued with powerful symbolism and metaphysical properties. It has been considered a stone of vitality, protection, and passion in various cultures. In ancient times, it was believed that rubies could predict misfortune or danger, and some cultures even claimed that they could cure inflammatory diseases and soothe anger.
In medieval Europe, ruby was associated with health, wisdom, and success in love. It was believed to bring good fortune and was often worn by royalty as a symbol of power and divine favor. Some even claimed that rubies could glow in the dark when exposed to sunlight, further adding to their mystical allure.
In Burmese tradition, ruby was thought to provide invincibility in battle. Warriors embedded the gem into their skin for protection, and the Burmese king was known as the “Lord of the Rubies,” as he claimed the finest specimens for the royal crown. The Mogok Valley in Myanmar became the epicenter of ruby production, and for centuries, the finest rubies were reserved for the royal family.
In India and Hinduism, the ruby was known as Ratnaraj, or “king of precious stones,” and was considered a symbol of the sun. Vedic astrologers believed it embodied the essence of the sun god Surya and was often offered to Krishna in hopes of divine favor. In some traditions, rubies were divided into four castes, with the highest quality stones known as “Brahmin.”
Modern metaphysical beliefs continue to attribute powerful properties to the ruby. It is considered a stone of motivation, confidence, and emotional balance. It is believed to help individuals overcome obstacles, enhance their courage, and maintain a sense of inner strength. Some also claim that ruby can protect against negative energies and promote a sense of vitality and passion.
Due to its rich symbolism and enduring allure, the ruby remains a popular choice for jewelry. It is often given as a gift for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, symbolizing enduring love and commitment. Its vibrant red color and deep meaning make it a powerful and meaningful gemstone for those born in July.
Care and Cleaning
Given the ruby’s high hardness (9 on the Mohs scale), it is a durable gemstone that can withstand daily wear. However, like all gemstones, it requires proper care to maintain its beauty and longevity. Here are some essential tips for cleaning and maintaining a ruby:
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Rubies should not be exposed to harsh chemicals, including household cleaners, chlorine, or acid-based substances. These can damage the stone or affect its luster.
Ultrasonic and Steam Cleaners: While rubies can be cleaned using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, it is important to check if the jewelry contains other gemstones or materials that may not be compatible with these methods.
Warm, Soapy Water: The safest way to clean a ruby is by using warm, soapy water. Simply soak the jewelry in a solution of mild dish soap and warm water for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.
Avoid Abrasive Materials: When cleaning ruby jewelry, avoid using abrasive materials or harsh scrubbing, as this can scratch the surface of the gemstone or damage the setting.
Store Properly: To prevent scratches and damage, store ruby jewelry separately in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or in a humid environment, as this can affect its appearance over time.
Professional Cleaning: If the ruby is set in a complex piece of jewelry or if it has been worn frequently, it is advisable to have it professionally cleaned and inspected by a qualified jeweler.
By following these simple care tips, ruby jewelry can maintain its brilliance and beauty for generations. Its durability and timeless appeal make it a valuable and lasting addition to any jewelry collection.
Conclusion
The ruby is more than just a gemstone; it is a symbol of enduring love, strength, and vitality. As the birthstone of July, it has captivated cultures for centuries with its deep red color and powerful symbolism. From ancient Burmese warriors to European royalty, the ruby has been revered for its beauty and protective properties. Its geological rarity, combined with its rich history and enduring appeal, makes it one of the most valuable and cherished gemstones in the world.
Whether worn as a symbol of love, a talisman of protection, or simply for its breathtaking beauty, the ruby remains a timeless treasure. Its enduring legacy is reflected in its continued popularity in jewelry, its association with significant life events such as anniversaries, and its place in both historical and modern gemstone traditions.
For those born in July, the ruby is not only a birthstone but a lifelong companion of meaning and significance. Its vibrant red color and deep symbolism make it a powerful and enduring gemstone that continues to inspire and enchant.