The ruby, a gemstone celebrated for its vibrant red hue, holds a prominent position as the birthstone for July. Representing passion, protection, and prosperity, the ruby has captivated civilizations for centuries. This article explores the ruby’s presence in contemporary jewelry, particularly within the Pandora collection, and examines its symbolic significance as reflected in available sources. While detailed historical and gemological information is limited within these sources, we will focus on the ruby’s modern representation and its enduring appeal.
A Contemporary Symbol: The Ruby in Jewelry
The provided sources showcase the ruby primarily through the lens of modern jewelry design, specifically within the Pandora brand and other retailers like Hannoush and Wexford Jewelers. These sources demonstrate the ruby’s continued popularity as a gemstone for necklaces, earrings, rings, and charms. Several items feature lab-created rubies, alongside natural rubies set with diamonds, catering to a range of preferences and budgets.
Pandora offers a variety of ruby-centered pieces, including the “July True Red Eternity Circle Dangle Charm,” the “July Birthstone Faceted True Red Eternity Circle Dangle Charm,” and “July Eternity Circle Stud Earrings.” These designs emphasize the symbolic meaning of eternity, incorporating the circular motif and a “true red” colored crystal or man-made ruby. Hannoush showcases ruby and diamond band rings, pendant necklaces, and halo earrings in 14K yellow and white gold. Wexford Jewelers presents a sterling silver necklace featuring a 4.5mm lab-created ruby, designed with a rose motif.
The price points vary considerably, ranging from $58 for a Pandora charm to $2,800 for 14K gold ruby and diamond earrings. This range reflects the influence of material (sterling silver versus gold), the presence of diamonds, and whether the ruby is lab-created or natural. Lafonn offers simulated diamond and lab-grown ruby pendants at more accessible price points, around $75-$80.
The Symbolism of Eternity and Everlasting Bonds
A recurring theme across the provided sources is the association of the ruby with eternity. The “Eternity Circle” designs from Pandora explicitly highlight this symbolism. The openwork infinity braid and circular form of the charms and earrings are intended to represent an everlasting bond. This suggests a modern interpretation of the ruby’s meaning, focusing on enduring relationships and commitments.
The rose slider necklace from Wexford Jewelers also carries symbolic weight. The rose, a classic symbol of love and beauty, combined with the ruby, reinforces themes of passion and affection. The design’s “floating appearance” adds a touch of elegance and delicacy, further enhancing its appeal as a sentimental gift.
Lab-Created Rubies and Material Choices
The sources reveal a growing trend towards the use of lab-created rubies in jewelry. Several Pandora items and the Lafonn pendants specifically utilize man-made crystals or lab-grown rubies. This practice offers a more affordable alternative to natural rubies while maintaining a similar aesthetic appeal.
The materials used in these pieces vary, with sterling silver being a prominent choice for charms and necklaces. Gold, in both 14K yellow and white gold, is reserved for higher-end items like rings and earrings. The combination of rubies with diamonds is also common, particularly in rings and earrings, adding brilliance and enhancing the overall value of the piece.
Ruby as a Birthstone: A Modern Perspective
The sources consistently identify the ruby as the birthstone for July. While they do not delve into the historical origins of this association, the consistent presentation of ruby jewelry marketed specifically for those born in July reinforces its status as the traditional birthstone for that month. The availability of a wide range of ruby-centered jewelry pieces suggests a continued demand for birthstone gifts and a desire to personalize jewelry with meaningful symbolism.
Caring for Ruby Jewelry
Although the sources do not provide specific care instructions, general knowledge regarding rubies suggests that they are relatively durable gemstones. However, as with any jewelry, proper care is essential to maintain its beauty. Sterling silver pieces should be cleaned regularly with a silver polishing cloth to prevent tarnishing. Gold jewelry can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. Given that some pieces feature lab-created rubies and cubic zirconia, avoiding harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners is advisable.
Conclusion
The ruby remains a captivating gemstone, deeply embedded in contemporary jewelry design and retaining its symbolic significance. The provided sources demonstrate its enduring appeal as the July birthstone, particularly within brands like Pandora and Hannoush. The emphasis on eternity, everlasting bonds, and passionate love, coupled with the increasing use of lab-created rubies, reflects a modern interpretation of this classic gemstone. While the sources offer a limited scope of information, they highlight the ruby’s continued relevance in the world of jewelry and its enduring power to symbolize beauty, passion, and enduring affection.