The ruby, with its captivating crimson hue, has been revered for millennia as a symbol of passion, power, and prosperity. As the primary birthstone for the month of July, this gemstone stands alongside the diamond and sapphire as one of the world's most coveted and historically significant precious gems. Its deep red color, a result of the element chromium, has inspired legends, fueled trade, and defined luxury across civilizations. This article delves into the rich history, geological origins, distinctive gemological properties, and enduring symbolism of the ruby, providing a comprehensive guide for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
History and Lore
The history of the ruby is as deep and vibrant as its color. The belief in the power of birthstones is not a modern invention but a tradition with roots in ancient civilizations. These early societies believed that gemstones held incredible powers, offering luck, health, and prosperity to their wearers. The practice of assigning specific gems to months, however, has a more defined timeline. The use of gems as "birthstones for a month" dates back to the eighteenth century in Europe and quickly spread to the United States. This tradition was standardized in 1912 by the American National Retail Jeweler’s Association, now known as Jewelers of America, which created a list that is still widely used by jewelers today.
In ancient times, the criteria for valuing gemstones were different. Color was the most important feature, and there was less distinction between gems that share similar hues. For instance, ancient cultures did not always distinguish between a ruby and a garnet. The modern ruby, a specific variety of the mineral corundum, was likely grouped with other red stones. The ruby's journey to its current status as a distinct and prized gemstone is a story of evolving gemological knowledge and market demand. The 1912 standardization cemented the ruby's position as the definitive birthstone for July, a status it maintains to this day.
The ruby's lore is rich with symbolism. Across cultures, it has been associated with life, blood, and energy. In various traditions, it was believed to protect the wearer from harm, ward off evil, and promote vitality. Its connection to power and passion made it a favorite of royalty and warriors alike. The stone's enduring appeal is evidenced by its continued popularity in jewelry, from royal crowns to modern engagement rings. Its historical significance is so profound that it is often referenced in historical texts, such as The Curious Lore of Precious Stones by George Frederick Kunz, a seminal work on the sentiments and folklore of gemstones.
Geological Formation and Sources
Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The deep red color is caused by trace amounts of chromium replacing some of the aluminum in the crystal lattice. The formation of rubies requires specific geological conditions: they are typically found in metamorphic rocks, such as marble, and in some cases, in basaltic or pegmatitic deposits. The presence of chromium is the critical factor, and its scarcity in the Earth's crust makes large, high-quality rubies exceptionally rare.
Ruby mining is concentrated in a few key regions around the world, each producing stones with unique characteristics. The most historically significant and still prolific source is the Mogok Valley in Myanmar (formerly Burma). Burmese rubies are renowned for their "pigeon's blood" color—a pure, vibrant red with a slight bluish tint—which is considered the benchmark for fine color. The country's political history has at times disrupted the trade, but the demand for Burmese rubies remains exceptionally high.
Other important sources include: * Thailand: Historically a major trading hub for rubies, Thai mines often produce stones with darker, browner undertones, though they can also yield beautiful reds. The gem trade in Thailand is deeply developed, with expertise in cutting and treatment. * Vietnam: Since the 1980s, Vietnam has emerged as a significant source of high-quality rubies, often found in alluvial deposits. These rubies can rival the Burmese stones in color. * Tanzania: Rubies from Tanzania, particularly from the Winza region, are known for their strong red color and can be found in large sizes, though they may have inclusions. * Madagascar: This island nation has become an important source of rubies in recent decades, with deposits yielding stones of good color and clarity. * Afghanistan: Rubies from the Badakhshan province are known for their fine color and have been mined for centuries.
The geographical origin of a ruby is a key factor in its value, with Burmese stones typically commanding the highest prices. However, rubies from other localities can also be of exceptional quality and are increasingly recognized in the market.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of the ruby is essential for appreciating its value and ensuring its longevity. As a member of the corundum family, it shares characteristics with sapphire, with the only difference being its color. The following table summarizes the key properties of the ruby.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral Species | Corundum |
| Chemical Formula | Al₂O₃ (with chromium impurities) |
| Crystal System | Trigonal |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 9 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.99 – 4.02 |
| Refractive Index | 1.762 – 1.770 |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Color | Red (caused by chromium) |
| Cut | Various, including brilliant, step, and mixed cuts |
| Clarity | Typically contains inclusions; "eye-clean" rubies are rare |
Hardness and Durability: With a Mohs hardness of 9, the ruby is one of the hardest minerals on Earth, second only to diamond. This exceptional hardness makes it highly resistant to scratching and abrasion, which is why it is a durable choice for jewelry that is worn daily, such as engagement rings and other fine pieces. As noted in gemological resources, rubies are durable enough to serve as an engagement ring gemstone, provided they are placed in a protective mounting. Their hardness means they will rarely come in contact with an object that will abrade them, and with proper care, they can withstand decades of wear.
Color and Clarity: The most prized color for a ruby is a vibrant, saturated red with a slightly purplish or bluish undertone. The term "pigeon's blood" is used to describe the most desirable hue. While rubies can be found in a range of red tones, the most valuable are those without strong brownish or orange overtones. Clarity is also a critical factor. Like many natural gemstones, rubies almost always contain inclusions, which are internal characteristics like mineral crystals, needles, or fingerprint-like patterns. A completely flawless ruby is exceedingly rare. The presence, type, and visibility of these inclusions affect the stone's transparency and overall value. Some inclusions, if they do not compromise durability or beauty, are accepted as evidence of the stone's natural origin.
Treatments and Enhancements: It is important to note that heat treatment is a common and widely accepted practice in the ruby trade to improve color and clarity. This process involves heating the gemstone to high temperatures to dissolve minute inclusions and enhance the red color. Heat treatment is considered permanent and is disclosed by reputable dealers. However, other treatments, such as fracture filling or dyeing, are less stable and must be disclosed. Consumers should always request a report from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), which will detail any detectable treatments.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The ruby's symbolism is deeply intertwined with its fiery color. For centuries, it has been associated with the most intense human emotions and concepts: love, passion, vitality, and courage. In many cultures, it was believed to be a stone of protection, capable of warding off negative energies and physical danger. Its connection to blood and life force made it a talisman for health and well-being.
Metaphysical beliefs surrounding the ruby are numerous. Practitioners of crystal healing often associate the stone with the root chakra, linking it to grounding, stability, and physical vitality. It is said to stimulate circulation, boost energy, and enhance motivation. Some beliefs hold that the ruby can foster passion in relationships and inspire courage in the face of challenge. While these metaphysical properties are not supported by scientific gemology, they are a significant part of the ruby's cultural legacy and contribute to its enduring appeal.
The ruby's association with prosperity and power has made it a favorite in royal and ceremonial jewelry. It was often used in crowns, scepters, and other regalia to symbolize the ruler's authority and divine right. This historical use reinforces the stone's image as a gemstone of the highest order, fit for kings and queens.
Care and Cleaning
Given the ruby's exceptional hardness (Mohs 9), it is relatively easy to care for. It is durable enough for everyday wear, but like all fine jewelry, it requires proper maintenance to preserve its beauty.
Cleaning: The safest way to clean a ruby is with warm water, a mild dish soap, and a soft brush. Gently scrub the stone and its setting to remove dirt and oils. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for untreated and heat-treated rubies, but should be avoided if the stone has fractures or has been treated with fracture-filling materials. Steam cleaners are also not recommended, as the heat can potentially damage certain treatments or cause fractures to expand.
Storage and Protection: While a ruby is resistant to scratching by other materials, it can be scratched by a diamond, which is the only natural mineral harder than it. Therefore, it should be stored separately from other jewelry pieces, preferably in a soft cloth pouch or a compartmentalized jewelry box. When wearing ruby jewelry, it is wise to remove it during activities that could subject it to hard blows or exposure to harsh chemicals, such as gardening, cleaning, or swimming.
For ruby jewelry intended for daily wear, such as an engagement ring, the setting is crucial. A protective setting, like a bezel or a well-designed prong setting, can help shield the stone from impacts and reduce the risk of chipping at the girdle or pavilion. Regular professional inspections of the setting are recommended to ensure the stone remains secure.
Conclusion
The ruby remains a cornerstone of the gemological world, celebrated for its unparalleled color, remarkable hardness, and profound historical significance. As the birthstone for July, it carries with it a legacy of passion, protection, and power that has captivated humanity for centuries. From the ancient mines of Myanmar to modern jewelry showcases, the ruby continues to be a symbol of the finest qualities of the human spirit. Its journey from a stone often confused with garnet to a distinct and highly valued gemstone reflects the evolution of our understanding of the mineral world. Whether chosen for its metaphysical properties, its stunning beauty, or its connection to a July birthday, the ruby is a timeless gem that will continue to inspire and enchant for generations to come. For those considering a ruby, understanding its origins, properties, and care requirements is key to appreciating this magnificent jewel and making a wise investment in a piece of enduring beauty.