Ruby, renowned for its captivating red hue, is a gemstone that has been cherished throughout history for its beauty and symbolic significance.

Mohs Hardness	Suitable for Jewelry Types	Good for Everyday Wear?
9 Learn More	All Kinds of Jewelry: Rings, Bracelets, Earrings, Necklaces, Cufflinks, Money Clips	Yes, with care

With a Mohs hardness rating of 9, rubies are exceptionally durable, making them ideal for various jewelry pieces intended for daily wear.

 

Birthstone Significance

Ruby is the birthstone for July, symbolizing love, passion, and vitality. Its vibrant red color makes it an ideal gift for those born in this month or for anyone seeking a gemstone that embodies energy and enthusiasm.

 

Origin

Ruby is a red variety of the mineral corundum, colored by trace amounts of chromium. It forms under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions in metamorphic and igneous rocks.

Major sources of ruby include:

• Myanmar (Burma): Known for producing some of the finest rubies with exceptional color, particularly the coveted "pigeon blood" red variety.
• Thailand: A significant source of high-quality rubies, contributing notably to the global supply.
• Sri Lanka: Produces rubies with a range of red hues, adding to the diversity of available stones.
• Mozambique: Known for rubies with a unique, vibrant red color.

 

Chemical Formula

Ruby is composed of aluminum oxide, with the chemical formula Al₂O₃. Its red color is primarily due to trace amounts of chromium within the crystal structure.

 

Fun Facts

1. Etymology

The term "ruby" originates from the Latin word "ruber," meaning red, reflecting the gemstone's signature color.

2. Hardness

On the Mohs scale, rubies rank 9, making them the second hardest gemstone after diamonds. This exceptional hardness contributes to their durability in jewelry.

3. Historical Misidentification

Several famous "rubies," such as the Black Prince's Ruby in the British Imperial State Crown, are actually red spinels. Historically, spinels were often mistaken for rubies due to their similar appearance.

4. Symbolism

Throughout history, rubies have symbolized passion, protection, and wealth. They were often worn by royalty and warriors as talismans to ensure safety and success.

5. Record-Breaking Ruby

The "Sunrise Ruby," a 25.59-carat Burmese ruby, holds the record for the most expensive ruby ever sold at auction, fetching $30 million in 2015.

6. Fluorescence

Many rubies exhibit strong red fluorescence under ultraviolet light, which can enhance their apparent color and brightness.

7. Synthetic Rubies

The first synthetic rubies were produced in the late 19th century using the Verneuil process. These lab-created rubies are chemically identical to natural ones and are used in both jewelry and industrial applications.

8. Star Rubies

Some rubies display asterism, a star-like pattern caused by needle-like inclusions of the mineral rutile. When cut into cabochons, these "star rubies" exhibit a six-ray star effect on their surface.

 

Ruby's rich color and historical significance make it a timeless gemstone, perfect for those seeking elegance and depth in their jewelry.

 

Care and Maintenance

Rubies should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It's advisable to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.