July’s Birthstone
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The rich red ruby has been prized for thousands of years not just for its beauty but for its durability. In fact, only the diamond is stronger than July’s famed birthstone . Let’s take a closer look at this stunner of a stone.
What Is Ruby?
The word ruby originates from the Latin word ruber meaning (Surprise!) red. Classified along with sapphires as a variation of the corundum mineral, the ruby gets its red color from the amount of chromium present – the more chromium, the deeper the red. While they can range from a light rosy to a deep rich wine shade, rubies are only found in red. The most valuable rubies are considered “pigeon’s blood” red and can fetch higher prices per carat than any other gemstone outside of diamonds.
History & Symbolism of the Ruby
Along with diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds, rubies are considered “precious” gemstones, vs. the less rare “semi-precious” gemstones. The ruby has long been a symbol of love, strength, protection, and commitment. Thousands of years ago warriors would adorned their armor and breastplates with the gem to provide protection in battle. As early as 200 B.C., rubies were traded around the North Silk Road in China. Centuries later, it was a much desired gem of European royalty and the wealthy. Today, of course, it is the birthstone of July and is often given as a gift in honor of 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries.
Mistaken Identity
Once upon a time, other red stones were mistakenly identified as rubies. Until the beginning of the 1800’s, red spinels were often thought to be rubies. Even some of the most famous gems in the world suffered this confusion including the “Black Prince’s Ruby”, currently set in the British Imperial State Crown. It is actually a red spinel.
Ruby Necklace by Zoe Lev Jewelry
Where are Rubies Found?
Rubies originate deep in Earth’s surface often in marble or basalt rock.Burma (Myanmar) is the world’s major producer of the finest rubies but they can also be mined in Afghanistan, Australia, Cambodia, India, Pakistan, Madagascar, Mozambique, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Vietnam. A small number have been found in the U.S. The mining process for rubies has stayed the same for years- by using hand tools and panning in rivers on a small scale.
Record Breakers
The world’s largest ruby is the 125 West Ruby, a rough-cut colossus of 18,000 carats. The most expensive ruby ever sold was the “Hope Ruby” which weighed 32 carats and sold for $6.7 million. If you’re looking to buy a ruby in the real world, look for obvious inclusions- the fewer the better. A high quality ruby should have a rich red hue but the best color for a ruby is really whatever hue you prefer. Don’t be bothered if your ruby has been treated with heat- this is common and doesn’t negatively impact the stone or its durability.
*Please note that all metaphysical/ healing properties are for informational/entertainment purposes and do not constitute advice or recommendation concerning the treatment of physical, mental, or emotional medical conditions. The Jewelry Junket does not guarantee the validity of any of such statements.
