The ruby, a gemstone celebrated for its vibrant red hue, holds a prominent position in the world of colored stones. Revered for centuries, it serves as the birthstone for July, symbolizing passion, love, and vitality. Often considered one of the “Big Three” gemstones – alongside emerald and sapphire – the ruby’s exceptional beauty and rarity contribute to its high value, sometimes exceeding that of diamonds. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and significance of the ruby, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The ruby’s history is steeped in lore and symbolism. Its name originates from the Latin word ruber, meaning “red,” a direct reference to its defining characteristic. Throughout history, the ruby has been associated with power, protection, and prosperity. While specific historical details are limited within the provided sources, the consistent association with love and passion is evident. The ruby’s enduring appeal is reflected in its continued use in jewelry, particularly as a symbol of deep affection and commitment. It is a gemstone chosen to mark significant life events, such as engagements, anniversaries, and birthdays.
Geological Formation and Sources
Rubies belong to the corundum family, a crystalline mineral composed of aluminum oxide. The red coloration arises from trace amounts of chromium within the crystal structure. These gemstones are not formed in just any geological environment; their creation requires specific conditions.
The sources indicate that rubies are found in several countries, including Myanmar, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and Mozambique. More recently, mining operations have been established in Greenland, indicating a broadening of sourcing locations. The demand for rubies continues to drive exploration and extraction efforts worldwide.
Gemological Properties
The ruby’s appeal extends beyond its color to its remarkable physical properties. It boasts a Mohs hardness rating of 9, making it exceptionally durable and resistant to scratching. This hardness, only one point below that of a diamond, makes rubies ideal for everyday wear, including in engagement rings, bracelets, and necklaces.
Here's a summary of the ruby’s key gemological properties, as indicated by the sources:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Gemstone Family | Corundum |
| Color | Primarily red, varying in shades |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9 |
| Luster | Adamantine |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
The sources emphasize that rubies are the most valuable form of corundum, often commanding higher prices per carat than other colored stones. This value is influenced by factors such as color intensity, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The ruby is deeply embedded with symbolism. As the birthstone for July, it represents passion, love, and vitality. This fiery gemstone is often associated with intense emotions and commitment, mirroring the energy of the summer season. Beyond its birthstone association, rubies are believed to possess calming and soothing properties, symbolizing love and affection. While the sources do not delve into extensive metaphysical beliefs, the consistent connection to positive emotions and relationships is noteworthy.
Popular Ruby Jewelry Styles
Rubies are incredibly versatile gemstones, lending themselves to a wide range of jewelry designs. Ruby rings are particularly popular, often chosen to commemorate significant life events. Classic solitaire ruby rings, featuring a single, stunning ruby set in a simple band, are an elegant and timeless choice. Other styles include ruby and diamond-studded necklaces, offering sparkle and sophistication. Ruby bracelets, such as flexible bangles featuring a row of rubies, provide a touch of color and personalization. The sources highlight the versatility of ruby jewelry, offering options for both formal occasions and everyday wear.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its exceptional hardness, the ruby is a relatively durable gemstone. However, certain treatments, such as heat treatment or glass filling, can affect its resilience. While the sources do not provide detailed cleaning instructions, the durability suggests that rubies can withstand regular wear. It is advisable to store ruby jewelry in a luxurious jewelry box to protect it from scratches and damage.
Platinum and Sterling Silver Settings
The sources mention rubies being set in both platinum finish sterling silver and sterling silver. Platinum finish sterling silver offers a durable and hypoallergenic setting, ideal for sensitive skin. Sterling silver provides a more affordable option while still maintaining a beautiful presentation. The choice of metal depends on individual preferences and budget.
Market Trends and Value
The gems and jewellery market was estimated at 395.58 (USD Billion) in 2022 and is projected to grow to 556.7 (USD Billion) by 2032, with rubies being a significant contributor to this market. High-quality rubies can fetch prices that surpass even diamonds, demonstrating their exceptional value and desirability. This demand drives ongoing exploration and mining efforts in various countries.
Purchasing Considerations
When selecting ruby jewelry, it is important to consider the quality of the gemstone and the craftsmanship of the setting. Look for rubies with a vibrant, saturated color and minimal inclusions. Ensure the setting is secure and well-made, using high-quality materials such as platinum finish sterling silver or sterling silver. Purchasing from a reputable jeweler, such as Ben Garelick, can provide assurance of quality and authenticity.
Guarantees and Customer Satisfaction
Reputable jewelers often offer guarantees and customer satisfaction policies. These policies provide peace of mind, ensuring that you are delighted with your purchase. It is important to review the terms and conditions of these policies before making a purchase.
Shipping and Returns
Understanding the shipping and return policies is crucial when purchasing jewelry online. Most jewelers offer shipping options to your home or in-store pickup. Returns are typically accepted with a sales receipt, allowing for exchanges, refunds, or warranty repairs.
Conclusion
The ruby, July’s birthstone, is a gemstone of enduring beauty and significance. Its vibrant red color, exceptional durability, and rich history have captivated hearts and minds for centuries. Whether worn in a ring, necklace, or bracelet, ruby jewelry remains a timeless expression of love, passion, and vitality. Its continued popularity and increasing market value solidify its position as one of the most coveted gemstones in the world.