July’s birthstone, ruby, has long captivated people with its intense red color and rich symbolism. Known as the “king of gems,” ruby is one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world. Its deep red hue is caused by the element chromium, and the finest rubies are known for a vivid, pure red often referred to as “pigeon’s blood.” This gemstone has a long and storied history, with associations to power, passion, and protection. In this article, we will explore ruby’s geological formation, cultural and historical significance, gemological properties, and its role in modern jewelry and symbolism.
History and Lore
Ruby has held a place of prominence in many ancient civilizations and has been considered a powerful stone for centuries. In ancient India, ruby was revered as the “king of precious stones” due to its rarity, beauty, and perceived mystical powers. It was believed to symbolize power and youthful energy, and ruby jewelry was often worn by royalty and warriors. Burmese warriors even believed that rubies made them invincible in battle, and some historical accounts suggest that ruby was used to predict misfortune or danger.
The gemstone’s name comes from the Latin word ruber, meaning “red,” a color long associated with love and passion. In medieval Europe, rubies were believed to bestow health, wisdom, wealth, and success in love. They were also used to predict misfortune, and some cultures believed that rubies could cure inflammatory diseases and soothe anger.
Ancient Egyptians also held rubies in high esteem, using them in jewelry and burial items. Some cultures believed that rubies could even glow in the dark, adding to their aura of mystery and power. In some traditions, ruby was considered a talisman of protection and was buried beneath the foundation of buildings to ensure good fortune and safety.
Ruby has also played a role in various spiritual and metaphysical traditions. In Hindu culture, ruby is considered a symbol of wisdom and spiritual truth, and it is believed to bring peace of mind and a sense of purity to the soul. In some modern spiritual practices, ruby is associated with the base chakra, promoting vitality and grounding energy.
Geological Formation and Sources
Ruby belongs to the corundum mineral family, which also includes sapphire. Corundum is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃), and the red color of ruby comes from the presence of trace amounts of chromium. The more chromium in the gemstone, the stronger the red color. The finest rubies, known as “pigeon’s blood,” have a deep red hue with a slight purplish tone, making them highly desirable in the gemstone market.
Ruby forms deep within the Earth’s mantle under high pressure and temperature conditions. It is typically found in metamorphic rocks, and its formation involves the transformation of existing rocks due to heat, pressure, and chemical processes. Rubies can also be found in igneous rocks, where they form as magma cools.
Myanmar (formerly Burma) is one of the most famous sources of high-quality rubies, particularly from the Mogok region. These rubies are known for their exceptional color and clarity and are considered among the finest in the world. Other notable ruby-producing regions include Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and parts of Africa, including Tanzania and Mozambique.
The mining of rubies is often a labor-intensive process, as the gems are typically found in small pockets or veins within the rock. Miners use a combination of traditional and modern techniques to extract the gemstones. Once extracted, rubies are carefully cut and polished to enhance their color and brilliance. Due to their hardness and durability, rubies are suitable for a wide range of jewelry designs, from rings and necklaces to earrings and bracelets.
Gemological Properties
Ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, second only to diamond on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. With a hardness of 9, ruby is highly durable and resistant to scratches, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear in jewelry. However, it is important to note that ruby can have inclusions, which are natural imperfections that may affect its clarity and durability.
The color of ruby is one of its most distinguishing features. The most valuable rubies have a deep red color with a slight purplish tone, often referred to as “pigeon’s blood.” This term is used to describe the most intense and desirable red color in rubies. The color of ruby is caused by the element chromium, and the amount of chromium present determines the intensity of the red color. Some rubies may also have secondary hues, such as purple or pink, which can affect their value and desirability.
In terms of clarity, ruby can vary widely. Some rubies are nearly flawless, while others contain inclusions that can be seen with the naked eye. These inclusions are often considered part of the gemstone’s character and can add to its beauty. However, inclusions can also affect the durability of the stone, as they may create weak points that could potentially cause damage.
Ruby is also known for its brilliance and fire. When properly cut, ruby can display a beautiful play of light, making it a stunning gemstone in jewelry. The cut of a ruby is crucial in maximizing its brilliance and color. Common cuts for ruby include the round brilliant cut, princess cut, and oval cut, each designed to enhance the gemstone’s natural beauty.
Ruby is also a popular gemstone for special occasions and milestones. It is traditionally given for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, symbolizing enduring love and commitment. Ruby is also associated with passion and vitality, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and other romantic jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Ruby has long been associated with a wide range of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. In ancient times, ruby was considered a powerful talisman of protection, and it was often worn by warriors and royalty to ensure safety and success. Some cultures believed that rubies could predict misfortune or danger, and others claimed that they could cure inflammatory diseases and soothe anger.
In modern spiritual practices, ruby is associated with the base chakra, which is believed to be the center of grounding and vitality. It is thought to promote energy, courage, and confidence, making it a popular stone for those seeking to enhance their personal power and vitality. Ruby is also believed to stimulate the heart and circulatory system, promoting physical and emotional well-being.
In addition to its association with the base chakra, ruby is also linked to the heart chakra, which is associated with love, compassion, and emotional healing. It is believed to promote feelings of love and passion, making it a popular choice for romantic jewelry. Ruby is also thought to enhance communication and encourage open and honest expression of emotions.
Ruby is also considered a stone of nobility and is often referred to as the “stone of nobility.” This nickname reflects its association with royalty and its perceived ability to bestow wisdom, power, and success. In some traditions, ruby is believed to bring prosperity and wealth, making it a popular choice for those seeking to enhance their financial fortunes.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness and durability, ruby is a relatively easy gemstone to care for. However, it is important to note that ruby can have inclusions that may affect its durability. To keep ruby jewelry looking its best, it should be cleaned regularly with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. It is also important to avoid exposing ruby to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures, as these can potentially damage the gemstone.
When cleaning ruby jewelry, it is best to use a gentle cleaning solution that does not contain abrasive ingredients. A mild dish soap mixed with warm water is typically sufficient for most cleaning needs. Once cleaned, the gemstone should be dried with a soft cloth to prevent water spots.
Ruby can also be cleaned using steam or ultrasonic cleaners, but it is important to check with a professional jeweler to ensure that these methods are safe for the specific piece of jewelry. In some cases, the presence of inclusions or other treatments may make certain cleaning methods unsuitable for ruby.
It is also important to store ruby jewelry properly to prevent damage. Ruby should be stored in a soft pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches from other gemstones or metals. It is also a good idea to remove ruby jewelry before engaging in activities that could potentially damage the gemstone, such as sports or manual labor.
Conclusion
Ruby is a gemstone with a rich history, beautiful color, and powerful symbolism. As the birthstone for July, it has long been associated with passion, love, and protection. Its deep red color, caused by the element chromium, makes it one of the most coveted gemstones in the world. Ruby is also highly durable, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear in jewelry. Whether worn for its beauty, its symbolic meaning, or its perceived metaphysical properties, ruby remains a timeless and treasured gemstone.