Show off the fiery personality of Ruby.
As the truest symbol of passion and strength, Ruby is known throughout history as one of the most desirable and famous gemstones. Its rich red hue and fiery gleam catch the eye and hold attention. Though held dear by those born in the height of summer, Ruby is a gemstone adored by all, worn year-round, and is always in style. Let’s take a comprehensive look at this magnificent gemstone and see why it’s the perfect option to celebrate every July birthday.
The History and Meaning of Rubies
Ruby has been called the king of precious stones and the most precious of the 12 stones created by God. It has a rich and storied history dating back to ancient times. The name comes from the Latin word ruber, meaning red, a color deeply associated with intense emotions and power. Early cultures treasured Rubies for their resemblance to blood and believed they held the essence of life.
In ancient India, Rubies were revered, and those who offered them to the god Krishna were believed to be reborn as emperors. In Burma, warriors embedded Rubies into their skin to become invincible in battle. Medieval Europeans wore Rubies to guarantee health, wealth, and success in love. Today, their vibrant red color remains a symbol of love and passion, making them a sought-after gemstone for romantic gifts and luxurious jewelry.
Sources for Rubies are as diverse as their history. For more than 500 years, Myanmar (formerly known as Burma) has been known as the source of the finest quality of Rubies. Mozambique is a newer location producing Rubies that some believe are similar in quality to Myanmar. Since the late 1900s, Vietnam has also been a major source for Rubies. Beyond these notable locations, other sources for Rubies include Thailand, Cambodia, Afghanistan, Tajikstan, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Tanzania, and Madagascar.
Did You Know?
Not only is Ruby the July birthstone, but it is the traditional symbol for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries.
How to Care for Rubies
Ruby, as part of the corundum species of gemstones, has a rating on the Mohs hardness scale of 9, making it extremely durable and suitable for everyday wear. It exhibits excellent toughness as well, meaning it is resistant to breaking or chipping. Normal exposure to light does not typically affect Rubies; however, they are sensitive to certain chemicals and harsh cleaning agents. Extreme heat should also be avoided.
When it comes to cleaning Rubies and Ruby jewelry, both ultrasonic and steam cleaners are typically safe options, but caution should be used with fracture-filled or treated stones.
Gemstone Education
Want to learn more about the colorful world of gemstones? Visit Stuller’s Gemstone Information Center to see a rainbow of options along with fun facts, care tips, and helpful resources.
Options With Rubies
The finest Rubies have a vivid, pigeon-blood red color with minimal inclusions visible to the naked eye. Whether looking for tiny accents to bring a pop of color to a pair of earrings or trying to find the most eye-catching statement, Rubies of varying sizes and cuts are available to meet any need. Looking for something particularly stunning? Some Rubies display a phenomenon known as asterism, an optical effect caused by unique inclusions that results in a star-shaped pattern to appear. These Rubies are known as Star Rubies.
Sapphire — another member of the corundum species — exhibits the same durability and toughness as Ruby but comes in a much larger variety of colors. This makes pairing the two together in multi-colored pieces an excellent choice.
Choosing Ruby Jewelry
Rubies positively glow in the sunlight and the warm tones of yellow gold mountings give Ruby a regal appearance. Consider these facts when telling the story of Ruby to your customers to help them experience the visual appeal that has captivated jewelry lovers for centuries.
Ruby: Fiery Passion and Rich Devotion
Rubies are not just beautiful gemstones; they are storied treasures cherished throughout history for their beauty and symbolic meaning. By understanding the history, care, and options available with Rubies, you can better serve your customers and help them find the perfect piece of Ruby jewelry. Whether it’s a modern engagement ring, a timeless necklace, or a bold pair of earrings, Rubies offer a unique combination of elegance, durability, and passionate color that will always be in demand. Embrace the allure of Rubies and fall in love with the everlasting beauty of July’s birthstone.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kristen Chauvin
Senior Product Manager, Gemstones
Kristen holds degrees in Marketing and Entrepreneurship from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and has multiple certifications from GIA. Her experience with interior design and jewelry merchandising aids her in curating a diverse gemstone assortment.