Ruby is the symbol of immortality and everlasting love. The second hardest gemstone after Diamond, rubies have been valued across human cultures for several centuries now. Ancient Hindus believed that the Ruby possessed the inextinguishable ‘inner fire’ that caused the stone o shine even through clothing. In early human civilizations, the red stone was believed to bless its wearers with wisdom, wealth, health and success, especially in matters related to the heart. Traditionally, this gemstone has been associated with divine power, dignity and charity.
Rubies are also the birthstones for people born in the month of July, relating to the Zodiac sign of Cancer (June 22nd to July 22nd). They are also the preferred gemstones for the 15th and 40h wedding anniversaries.
Rubies occur in different shades of red, ranging from rich dark to pinkish red. The density of red is imparted by the amount of chromium in the mineral. They occur across the globe including the continents of Africa, USA, Australia and Asia (Burma more specifically). Majority of ruby exports are done by Thailand, Myanmar and some other Asian countries. In fact, rubies were first discovered in Myanmar and it is from this instance that the finest rubies were referred to as Burmese Rubies.
Characteristics of Rubies
Rubies are among the most durable naturally occurring stones. They are mainly composed of crystallized corundum with traces of chromium oxide that lends the bright coloration to the crystal. Chemically, rubies are closest to sapphires in the mineral family. Depending upon the depth of ‘redness’; the gemstone is categorized as being a ruby or a sapphire. Deeper colored crystals are called rubies while lighter pinks are sapphires.The next important character is the size of the stone. Rubies above 2 carats are quite rare and only found in the Far East mines. Consequently, bigger rubies attract a higher price.
Origin of Ruby
The word ‘Ruby’ comes from the Latin term ‘rubeus’ meaning red. The best rubies are referred to as the ‘pegion blood’ due to the purity and richness of the color. The Pegion Rubies also showcase a tinge of blue, heightening the brilliance of the stone. Currently, one of the largest Pegion Ruby, weighing 4.0920 carats, is owned by a leading Chinese jewelry company. The largest of Rubies weighing 4.6 grams is displayed in the American Museum of Natural History.
An interesting legend says that all the rubies that weight over 6 carats are automatically owned by the Burmese King! This legend is similar to the story of King Louis IX who ruled that a diamond cannot be owned by a commoner.
Facts About Red Ruby
