The ruby, the radiant birthstone for those born in July, is one of the most coveted and historically significant gemstones in the world. Known for its deep red color and symbolic resonance, ruby has long been associated with passion, vitality, and protection. This article delves into the rich history, geological properties, cultural symbolism, and practical care of ruby, drawing exclusively from reliable sources and well-documented facts.
Ruby, a red variety of the mineral corundum (Al₂O₃), is renowned for its intense color, which is primarily due to the presence of trace amounts of chromium. The gem has been revered for centuries across various cultures, and it remains a powerful symbol of love and strength. According to the National Association of Jewelers in the United States, ruby was officially designated as the birthstone for July in the early 20th century. However, its significance stretches back much further, with historical records and mythological references pointing to its importance in ancient times.
This article will explore the origins of ruby, its geological formation and sources, its symbolic and metaphysical meanings, and how to best care for ruby gemstones. Through this in-depth examination, readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of why ruby continues to captivate and inspire.
History and Lore
The history of ruby is as vivid as its color. The gemstone has been cherished by royalty and commoners alike, often regarded as a symbol of power and protection. Ancient texts and archaeological findings indicate that ruby was valued in civilizations such as India, Egypt, and China long before the common era.
In biblical times, ruby was one of the 12 gemstones on the high priest Aaron’s breastplate, as mentioned in the book of Exodus. This association with divine authority and spiritual protection underscores the stone’s deep-rooted significance. Additionally, ruby’s red hue was often linked to the blood of Christ, further enhancing its sacred connotations.
Ruby has also been a part of various cultural and mythological traditions. According to Ashley Leavy, founder of the Love and Light School of Crystal Therapy, ancient cultures believed that ruby was the third eye of dragons or the eyes of Wyverns—mythical creatures in European folklore. In the East, ruby was frequently set into statues of the Buddha to represent the third eye, symbolizing heightened awareness and spiritual insight.
In ancient monarchies, ruby was believed to offer protection to kings and warriors. Its deep red color was associated with blood, and some believed it could heal battle wounds or make the wearer invincible in combat. These beliefs reflect the gemstone’s powerful symbolism and the enduring fascination it has inspired across centuries.
Geological Formation and Sources
Ruby forms under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions, typically in metamorphic rocks such as marble or in igneous rocks like basalt. The gemstone is a variety of corundum, which is a naturally occurring form of aluminum oxide. What distinguishes ruby from other corundum varieties, such as sapphire, is its red color, which is caused by the presence of chromium or, less commonly, vanadium.
The primary source of ruby is the corundum family, which includes not only ruby and sapphire but also other corundum varieties that display different colors depending on their trace elements. Ruby, in particular, owes its characteristic red color to chromium, which absorbs and reflects light in a way that gives it its intense hue.
Ruby is found in several countries around the world, but the most famous and historically significant sources are in Southeast Asia. Thailand, Cambodia, and Burma (now Myanmar) are particularly well-known for producing high-quality rubies. These regions have been major ruby-producing areas for centuries, with the gemstone playing an essential role in local economies and cultural traditions.
In addition to these traditional sources, ruby is also found in India, Vietnam, and parts of Africa, including Madagascar and Tanzania. The gemstone’s global distribution reflects its geological versatility and the diverse environments in which it can form.
The ruby deposits in Myanmar, particularly those in the Mogok region, are especially renowned for producing rubies with a deep, vivid red color known as "pigeon’s blood." This term refers to the most prized and valuable rubies, which exhibit a rich red color with a slight blue undertone. The presence of this specific hue is influenced by the geological conditions and the chemical composition of the ruby.
Gemological Properties
Ruby is a gemstone of exceptional hardness and durability, making it suitable for a wide range of jewelry applications. On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, ruby ranks at 9, just below diamond (which is 10). This high hardness means that ruby is resistant to scratches and abrasions, although it can still be damaged if exposed to hard impacts.
The gemstone’s refractive index typically ranges between 1.76 and 1.78, which contributes to its brilliance and fire. Ruby also exhibits strong pleochroism, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. However, this effect is often subtle and not easily noticeable to the untrained eye.
In terms of clarity, ruby can vary from transparent to opaque, depending on the presence of inclusions. While some inclusions are natural and can even enhance the stone’s character, excessive inclusions can reduce its value and optical clarity. High-quality rubies are typically free of visible inclusions to the naked eye.
The color of ruby is its most defining characteristic. The red color is caused by the presence of chromium, which gives the gemstone its intense hue. The most valuable rubies are those with a deep, vibrant red color known as "pigeon’s blood." This term is used to describe rubies that display a rich red color with a slight blue undertone, a combination that is both rare and highly sought after.
Ruby is also known for its durability and resistance to weathering, making it an excellent choice for everyday wear. However, it is important to note that while ruby is a hard gemstone, it can still be damaged if exposed to extreme conditions, such as sudden temperature changes or harsh chemicals.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Ruby is not only valued for its physical properties but also for its rich symbolism and metaphysical significance. Across different cultures and historical periods, ruby has been associated with a wide range of meanings and powers.
One of the most enduring symbols of ruby is its connection to love and passion. The deep red color of the gemstone has long been associated with the heart, making it a popular symbol of romantic love. In many cultures, ruby has been given as a gift to express deep affection and commitment. It is also considered a stone of vitality and energy, believed to enhance physical strength and emotional resilience.
In addition to its associations with love and vitality, ruby has been regarded as a powerful protective stone. Ancient cultures believed that ruby could shield the wearer from harm and bring them good fortune. Some legends even suggest that ruby could make the wearer invincible in battle or cure wounds caused by blood loss. While these beliefs are not scientifically validated, they reflect the deep reverence that ruby has inspired throughout history.
Modern crystal healers and spiritual practitioners continue to attribute various properties to ruby. Ashley Leavy, for example, notes that ruby is believed to activate the root and heart chakras, grounding the wearer while also opening the heart to love and compassion. It is also considered a stone of courage, encouraging the wearer to face challenges with confidence and determination.
Ruby is also associated with the sun, symbolizing warmth, vitality, and life force. In many traditions, it is considered a stone of the sun, representing power, energy, and a connection to higher consciousness. This symbolism has led to its use in various spiritual and ceremonial contexts.
Care and Cleaning
Given its high hardness and durability, ruby is a relatively easy gemstone to care for. However, it is still important to handle ruby with care to prevent damage and maintain its beauty over time.
One of the key considerations in caring for ruby is its susceptibility to heat. While ruby is generally stable, it can be damaged if exposed to extreme temperatures. For example, sudden temperature changes can cause the gemstone to crack or lose its color. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid exposing ruby to high heat, such as in a jewelry cleaner that uses steam or ultrasonic methods.
Cleaning ruby can be done using warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. A mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush can be used to gently clean the surface of the gemstone. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the surface of the ruby or affect its color.
When storing ruby jewelry, it is best to keep it in a soft, padded container to prevent scratches. Ruby should also be stored separately from other gemstones, as it can scratch softer stones like pearls or opals.
In terms of maintenance, it is advisable to have ruby professionally cleaned and inspected by a jeweler at regular intervals. This can help identify any potential issues and ensure that the gemstone remains in optimal condition.
Conclusion
The ruby, with its deep red color and rich history, continues to captivate and inspire. As the birthstone for July, it symbolizes passion, vitality, and protection, making it a meaningful and powerful gemstone. From its geological formation in the Earth’s crust to its cultural and symbolic significance, ruby has played an essential role in human history and continues to be a cherished gemstone today.
Understanding the properties, history, and care of ruby allows us to appreciate this gemstone on a deeper level. Whether worn as a piece of jewelry, a spiritual tool, or simply admired for its beauty, ruby remains one of the most enduring and beloved gemstones in the world.