Ruby, often lauded as the “Lord of the Gems,” holds a prominent place in the world of gemstones, celebrated for its rarity, beauty, and historical significance. Recognized as the birthstone for July and the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 15th and 4th years of marriage, this vibrant gem has captivated civilizations for centuries. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of the ruby, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The history of ruby is deeply intertwined with ancient beliefs and traditions. For over 700 years, the finest rubies have emanated from Burma (Myanmar), where they were highly prized. Throughout history, rubies were believed to possess protective qualities, safeguarding owners from misfortune and ensuring harmony with neighbors. Wearing a ruby, particularly set in jewelry and positioned on the left side of the body, was thought to intensify its protective powers, assuring the owner a secure stature in life, a protected home, and land.
Ancient cultures believed rubies contained an inner flame that burned eternally, symbolizing passion, vitality, and courage. Pirates, in particular, favored peridot, considering it a powerful amulet against evil, and believed that when set in gold, it would protect the wearer from nighttime terrors. Beyond protection, rubies were also attributed with medicinal properties; fashioned into a chalice, they were thought to amplify the effects of any medicine consumed from it.
Geological Formation and Sources
Rubies are not independent minerals but rather varieties of the mineral corundum. Crucially, only red corundum is classified as ruby; all other colors are known as sapphire. The vivid, almost pure spectral red, often with a faint blue undertone, as seen in Burmese rubies, is considered the most desirable color.
The formation of rubies is often linked to volcanic activity. Peridot crystals are sometimes found combed from the black sands of Hawaii, indicating a volcanic origin. While Burma remains the historically significant source of the finest rubies, other notable mining locations include Thailand, Kenya, Tanzania, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and India.
Gemological Properties
Rubies possess distinct gemological properties that contribute to their value and allure. While the provided sources do not specify the chemical formula, they do detail key characteristics. The hardness of ruby is rated at 9 on the Mohs scale, indicating excellent durability and resistance to scratching. This toughness is also described as “Good,” meaning the stone is resistant to chipping and breaking under normal wear.
Rubies are commonly subjected to heat treatment as part of the customary fashioning process. This treatment permanently improves the color and appearance of the stone, enhancing its brilliance and desirability. The color range of rubies is remarkably diverse, encompassing shades from raspberry to blood-red, and even greens that rival the color of emeralds, as well as shades of yellow, orange, and brown.
Here's a table summarizing the gemological properties as stated in the sources:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 9 |
| Toughness | Good |
| Color | Red (varying shades), also green, yellow, orange, brown |
| Treatment | Commonly heat-treated |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, rubies have been imbued with rich symbolism. They are widely recognized as the stone of passion, love, and energy, with their fiery red color often associated with strong emotions and vitality. Beyond romantic love, rubies symbolize courage, nobility, and protection.
More broadly, birthstones themselves are thought to bring good luck and health to the wearer. Astrologers have long attributed supernatural powers to certain gemstones, further enhancing their mystical appeal. Pearls, another birthstone, symbolize purity, innocence, and loyalty, and are unique as one of the few gemstones created by living organisms. Garnet, the birthstone for January, comes in all colors except blue and offers a wide range of appearances and price points.
Mounting Options and Care
The way a ruby is mounted significantly impacts its appearance and durability. Vintage-style settings with intricate filigree or milgrain work complement the ruby’s classic beauty. Solitaire settings allow the deep red color to stand out prominently. Modern tension settings create a striking effect, suspending the ruby within the metal band. Pearls are often mounted in bezel settings for a smooth, contemporary look, or in classic stud settings for earrings, and are frequently strung together in necklaces or bracelets.
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of a ruby. It is important to protect the gemstone from scratches and sharp blows. Avoid exposure to household chemicals, cosmetics, hair sprays, and perfumes. Ultrasonic cleaners should not be used for cleaning rubies. Instead, they should be washed with mild soap and water and stored in a protective chamois pouch or tissue paper. Peridot also requires careful handling, avoiding scratches, sharp blows, household chemicals, and extreme temperature changes.
Birthstones and Jewelry Selection
The selection of birthstone jewelry is a meaningful way to honor individuality and celebrate special occasions. Whether choosing a birthstone ring, bracelet, or necklace, the gemstone’s symbolism adds a personal touch to the piece. David Yurman’s collection of birthstone jewelry fuses timeless elegance with profound meaning, while CMI Jewelry prides itself on offering expert craftsmanship and quality in its birthstone selections. Custom jewelry design services allow for the creation of truly unique and personalized pieces.
Conclusion
Ruby, the “Lord of the Gems,” remains a captivating and highly valued gemstone. Its rich history, vibrant color, exceptional durability, and symbolic significance have ensured its enduring appeal for centuries. From its ancient origins in Burma to its modern-day presence in fine jewelry, the ruby continues to represent passion, protection, and enduring beauty. The careful selection of mounting options and diligent care will ensure that this magnificent gemstone remains a cherished heirloom for generations to come.