The ruby, with its intense, fiery red color, is the official birthstone for July. This gemstone has captivated people for centuries with its vibrant hue and deep symbolism. As one of the four traditional precious gemstones—alongside diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires—the ruby holds a special place in both historical and cultural contexts.
This article explores the ruby in detail, covering its historical significance, geological properties, cultural symbolism, and care instructions. The information presented is drawn exclusively from authoritative sources that provide a comprehensive understanding of this remarkable gemstone.
The Historical Significance of the Ruby
The ruby's history is as rich and vibrant as its color. One of the earliest recorded connections between gemstones and the months of the year can be traced back to the Bible. According to this ancient text, the High Priest of the Israelite nation wore a breastplate adorned with twelve gemstones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. This tradition laid the foundation for the later association of gemstones with the twelve months of the year, a concept that has persisted across various cultures.
In ancient India, the ruby was known as the "king of precious stones" and was revered for its rarity, hardness, and perceived mystical powers. Indian warriors and royalty believed that rubies were not only symbols of power and wealth but also sources of vitality and protection. In medieval Europe, ruby was thought to bestow health, wisdom, and success in love. Burmese warriors, in particular, believed that wearing a ruby in battle would make them invincible.
The ruby has also been associated with significant life events. It is traditionally given as a gift for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, symbolizing enduring love and passion. In some cultures, rubies were believed to have the ability to predict danger or misfortune, and they were used in talismans to ward off evil.
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 is the presence of trace amounts of chromium, which gives it its characteristic red color. The more chromium present in the gemstone, the stronger the red hue. This relationship between chromium concentration and color intensity is a key factor in determining a ruby's value.
The finest rubies are known for a specific shade referred to as "pigeon's blood." This term describes a rich, deep red color with a slight hint of blue, which is considered the most desirable and valuable in the trade. Rubies with this coloration are rare and command high prices in the gemstone market.
Rubies are formed under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions deep within the Earth's crust. They are typically found in metamorphic rocks such as marble and in alluvial deposits. Some of the most renowned ruby deposits are located in Myanmar (formerly Burma), where the gemstones exhibit exceptional color and fluorescence. Other notable sources include Thailand, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Afghanistan.
The geological environment in which a ruby forms can influence its color and secondary hues. For example, rubies with pinkish or purplish tones are often associated with specific regions, and these subtle variations can help gemologists determine the stone's origin.
Gemological Properties of Ruby
The ruby's gemological properties contribute to its status as one of the most valued colored gemstones. On the Mohs scale of hardness, which ranges from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest), ruby ranks a 9, making it second only to diamond in hardness. This durability makes it an excellent choice for everyday jewelry, as it is less prone to scratches and damage.
In terms of color, ruby is prized for its rich red hue. As mentioned earlier, the most valuable rubies display a "pigeon's blood" color, characterized by a deep red with a slight blue modifier. The color of a ruby is influenced by several factors, including the concentration of chromium and the presence of other trace elements. Some rubies may also exhibit fluorescence under ultraviolet light, which enhances their brilliance and makes them appear more vivid in daylight.
Ruby is a transparent to translucent mineral, and its clarity can vary. High-quality rubies are typically free of inclusions, or internal flaws, but some natural inclusions are common and can even be used to determine a stone's authenticity. Cut is another important factor in ruby valuation. Since ruby is a hexagonal crystal, it is often cut into shapes that emphasize its symmetry and brilliance, such as the emerald cut or the oval cut.
The weight of a ruby is measured in carats, and like other gemstones, its value increases with size. However, the quality of the color and clarity is often more important than the size when determining a ruby's worth.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, the ruby has been associated with a wide range of symbolic and metaphysical meanings. In many cultures, it is seen as a symbol of passion, love, and vitality. Its deep red color is often linked to the heart and emotions, making it a popular choice for romantic jewelry.
In ancient times, people believed that rubies possessed healing properties. They were thought to cure inflammatory diseases and soothe anger. Some cultures also believed that rubies could predict danger or misfortune, and they were used in protective talismans. In India, rubies were considered to be powerful stones that could enhance one's vitality and strength.
The ruby is also associated with power and protection. Warriors in various cultures wore rubies into battle, believing that the stones would make them invincible. In medieval Europe, ruby was thought to bestow wisdom, health, and success in love. These beliefs have contributed to the ruby's enduring popularity and its role in both historical and modern jewelry.
Care and Cleaning of Ruby
Due to its high hardness and durability, ruby is relatively easy to care for compared to other gemstones. However, it is still important to handle ruby jewelry with care to maintain its beauty and longevity.
When cleaning ruby, it is best to use a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. A soft cloth can be used to dry the gemstone gently. It is important to avoid harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface of the stone or affect its fluorescence.
Ruby should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. Since it is a hard stone, it can scratch softer gemstones such as pearls, emeralds, and opals. It is also advisable to remove ruby jewelry before engaging in activities that may expose it to impact or abrasion.
If a ruby is mounted in a piece of jewelry, it is important to have it inspected regularly by a professional jeweler. This can help identify any loose settings or structural issues that may compromise the stone's security.
Conclusion
The ruby is a remarkable gemstone that has captivated people for centuries with its vibrant red color, rich history, and deep symbolism. As the official birthstone for July, it represents passion, love, and vitality, making it a fitting symbol for the height of summer. Its geological properties, including its high hardness and unique coloration, contribute to its value and desirability.
From its ancient roots in Indian and European traditions to its modern use in jewelry and anniversary celebrations, the ruby continues to hold a special place in the world of gemstones. Whether admired for its beauty, its historical significance, or its metaphysical properties, the ruby remains one of the most cherished gemstones of all time.