The ruby, a gemstone celebrated for its vibrant red hue, holds a prominent position as the birthstone for July. Revered throughout history for its beauty and perceived protective qualities, the ruby continues to be a highly sought-after gem in contemporary jewelry. This article will explore the ruby’s characteristics, historical significance, sources, symbolism, and practical considerations for its care, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
The name “ruby” originates from the Latin word ruber, meaning red. This direct connection to color underscores the ruby’s most defining characteristic and its historical association with passion, energy, and vitality. Throughout history, rubies have been prized possessions, coveted by royalty and nobility. Sources indicate ruby jewelry has been worn for centuries, particularly as statement pieces in gold, demonstrating a long-standing tradition of appreciation. The ruby’s association with romantic love and relationships is also deeply rooted in tradition, making it a customary gift for 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries.
Geological Formation and Sources
Rubies belong to the corundum mineral species, renowned for its exceptional hardness, second only to diamonds among naturally occurring gems. This durability makes rubies suitable for everyday wear. Rubies are found in various locations worldwide, including Myanmar, Africa, and even the United States. While specific mining locations are mentioned, the sources do not provide detailed geological information regarding their formation.
Gemological Properties
The ruby’s defining characteristic is its color, ranging from a delicate pink to a deep, blood-red. This vibrant hue is due to the presence of chromium within the corundum structure. The sources emphasize the ruby’s strength, noting it registers only slightly softer than diamonds on the Mohs scale.
Here's a summary of the ruby's properties, based on the provided sources:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Corundum |
| Color | Red, ranging from pink to deep blood-red |
| Hardness | Very High (slightly softer than diamond) |
| Symbolism | Love, passion, energy, protection |
Lab-grown rubies are also available, offering an alternative to naturally mined stones. These lab-created rubies possess the same chemical and physical properties as their natural counterparts. Rings featuring rubies are commonly set with a 3mm lab-grown ruby. Bands are typically around 1mm in width and can be crafted from solid 9k, 14k, 18k yellow, white, or rose gold, as well as sterling silver. A high-polish finish is standard, though matte finishes are available upon request.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The ruby is rich in symbolism. Beyond representing the July birthstone color, it is believed to symbolize love, passion, energy, and protection against evil. Some believe a ruby necklace can inspire romantic love and sensuality. The gem is also associated with courage and a passion for life. The sources suggest that the ruby’s symbolism lends itself to various jewelry types, including rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, each holding special significance for the wearer.
Care and Cleaning
The ruby’s exceptional hardness makes it a durable gemstone suitable for daily wear. However, maintaining its brilliance requires proper care. The sources do not provide specific cleaning instructions, but the mention of platinum coating over sterling silver suggests avoiding harsh chemicals that could damage the plating. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is generally recommended for most gemstones.
Ruby Jewelry Styles
The sources highlight the versatility of ruby jewelry. Ruby rings are popular choices for engagement, anniversary, and accent rings. Ruby bracelets can be designed with ruby gemstones and diamonds set in tennis or halo bracelets. Ruby necklaces range from simple pendant necklaces featuring a ruby red birthstone to more elaborate designs incorporating diamonds or sapphires. Ruby earrings are available in various shapes and sizes, including pear shapes with diamond halos and classic studs. The choice of metal – gold or silver – can influence the overall aesthetic, with gold offering a traditional appeal and silver or white gold providing a more modern look.
Purchasing Considerations
Rings crafted with rubies are often made with platinum-coated sterling silver or solid gold (9k, 14k, or 18k) in yellow, white, or rose gold. Customization options are frequently available, allowing for adjustments to width, thickness, texture, design, and the addition of diamonds or other gemstones. When purchasing a ruby ring, it’s important to consider the size and metal selection, as rings with platinum plating cannot be resized through traditional methods. Custom orders typically require approximately 10 business days for delivery to ensure quality craftsmanship. "Ready to ship" options are available for certain products and sizes, offering faster delivery times.
Conclusion
The ruby, July’s birthstone, is a gemstone steeped in history, symbolism, and enduring beauty. Its vibrant red color, exceptional durability, and association with love, passion, and protection have made it a cherished gem for centuries. Whether chosen as a birthstone gift, an anniversary token, or a personal indulgence, the ruby remains a timeless and captivating gemstone.