As one of the four precious gemstones, along with diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds, rubies hold a special place in the world of fine jewelry. Rubies have captivated human beings for millennia, adorning royalty, inspiring legends, and symbolizing power and passion. In modern times, the famous ruby slippers worn by Dorothy in “The Wizard of Oz” have become an iconic symbol in American pop culture.
Rubies have captivated human beings for millennia, adorning royalty, inspiring legends, and symbolizing power and passion. These precious gemstones are found in several locations around the world, each contributing unique characteristics to the rubies extracted.
Rubies belong to the corundum mineral family, which also includes sapphires. What sets rubies apart is their distinctive red color, caused by the presence of chromium. The finest rubies are known for their deep, vivid red color, often referred to as “pigeon’s blood,” characterized by a pure red hue with a hint of blue.
India has one of the earliest records of ruby mining, particularly in the region of Burma (now Myanmar). Ancient Indian texts referred to rubies as “ratnaraj,” meaning “king of precious stones.” The Mogok Valley in Myanmar is arguably the most famous source of rubies, known for producing some of the finest rubies in the world. Burmese rubies, especially those from Mogok, are highly prized for their exceptional color and clarity. The most coveted color of Burmese rubies is aforementioned “pigeon’s blood”.
Thailand, Sri Lanka, Mozambique are also notable sources for ruby mining.
Rubies have long been associated with powerful symbolism and cultural significance. In various cultures, rubies are believed to bring health, wealth, wisdom, and success in love.
Passion and Love: The deep red color of rubies is often associated with intense emotions and romantic love.
Protection: Ancient warriors and kings wore rubies as talismans to protect them in battle.
Wealth and Power: Rubies have long been a status symbol, worn by royalty and the elite to signify wealth and authority.
For those born in July, the ruby is a particularly meaningful gemstone. It is said to bring good luck, health, and prosperity to its wearer. The ruby’s vibrant color is also thought to reflect the warmth and energy of the summer month.
Caring for ruby jewelry is important to maintain its beauty and longevity. Here are some tips for proper care:
▪️ To clean, use a soft brush with mild soapy water. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
▪️ Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, perfumes, and cosmetics.
▪️ Store your jewelry separately from other pieces to prevent scratching. Use individual pouches, soft jewelry boxes, or lined compartments in a jewelry box.
▪️ Avoid prolonged exposure to heat and direct sunlight as it can affect the color of rubies.
▪️ Periodically inspect your ruby jewelry for any loose or damaged stones, as well as signs of wear and tear on the metal settings. If you notice any issues, take your jewelry to a reputable jeweler for professional inspection and repair.
For more tips on how to care for your piercing jewelry, consult our Body Jewelry Care Guide.
Rubies have captivated civilizations throughout history and have retained their status as one of the most coveted and revered gemstones.
Our collection includes everything from nose rings, belly rings and labrets, to cartilage earrings. Check out some of our favorites.
Rubies are beautiful as a stand-alone piece, but when paired with other gemstones, its benefits and attributes amplify. We suggest combining with Citrine to promote creativity and abundance, Amethyst to bring a sense of peace and tranquility, and Lapis Lazuli to bring a sense of inner wisdom and spiritual insight.
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