Ruby is a variety of mineral corundum. The red color is due to the presence of chromium. Without it, you’d just have sapphire, same mineral, different color. What sets a ruby apart is not just its color, but also its rarity. Fine-quality rubies are significantly harder to find than many other gemstones, making them especially valuable and desirable.
The Importance of Color
When it comes to rubies, color is everything. The most prized rubies display a vivid, pure red with a slight hit of blue, often referred to as “pigeon blood” red. This color is highly coveted for its intensity and brilliance.Rubies can range in other shades from bright, vibrant red to slightly pinkish reds to deep, darker red tones. The more saturated and lively the color, the more valuable the stone.
Durability for Everyday Wear
Ruby is one of the hardest gems available, ranking at 9 on the Mohs scale, just below diamonds. This makes it an excellent choice for jewelry that is worn regularly. It resists scratches and holds up well over time, making it ideal for heirloom pieces that can be passed down for generations.Symbolism
Throughout history, ruby has been associated with powerful emotions. Its deep red color naturally connects it to the heart, making it a timeless representation of love and passion. It can also symbolize devotion, strength, courage, protection, energy and vitality. For centuries, it was thought to bring good fortune and even protect its wearer from harm. Today, it remains a meaningful choice in romantic gifts, anniversaries and milestone celebrations.History
Rubies have appeared in royal collections across the world. In ancient cultures, particularly in Asia, it was considered the “king of gemstones.” Warriors believed that wearing rubies would grant them protection, while royalty prized them as symbols of wealth and power. Some of the most famous rubies in history originated from Myanmar (formerly Burma), a region still known for producing some of the finest stones available.Rubies in Jewelry
The rubies bold color allows it to shine as the centerpiece of a design or complement the center stone. In a solitaire ring, a single ruby makes a dramatic statement, perfect for those who appreciate bold elegance. When you surround rubies with diamonds, it enhances its color and brilliance, creating a luxurious, eye-catching look. Ruby adds a pop of color to everyday jewelry, offering a balance of sophistication and wearability. Whether set in yellow gold for warmth, white gold for contrast, or platinum for a modern feel, ruby adapts beautifully to a variety of styles.
Natural vs. Treated Rubies
Most rubies available today have undergone heat treatment to enhance their color and clarity. This is a standard and widely accepted practice in the jewelry industry. Untreated rubies are extremely rare and often command significantly higher prices due to their natural beauty.Star Rubies
In addition to traditional faceted rubies, there is a fascinating variety known as the star ruby. These stones display a natural phenomenon called asterism, a star-like pattern that appears across the surface when light hits the stone. These rubies are typically cut into smooth, rounded shapes, cabochons, to highlight this effect, offering a distinctive and collectible alternative to traditional ruby jewelry.Why Choose Ruby?
Ruby is more than just a birthstone, it’s a statement. Its rich history, symbolic meaning and striking color mean it’s one of the most captivating gemstones available. Whether you’re celebrating a July birthday, marking an anniversary or simply looking for a piece that stands out, look no further, the ruby offers a perfect balance of beauty and significance.Discover Ruby at Floyd & Green
If you’re drawn to the bold beauty of ruby, we invite you to explore our collection in-store or online. From classic designs to custom creations, our team is here to help you find the perfect piece to celebrate life’s most meaningful moments.Because some gemstones don’t just sparkle, they tell a story. And ruby tells one of passion, strength and enduring beauty.