Rubies, with their captivating red hue and storied past, have long been revered as one of the most precious gemstones in human history. The Sanskrit term ratnaraj, meaning ‘king of gems’, aptly captures the ruby’s esteemed position. While modern birthstone lists have evolved, the ruby’s deep-rooted connection to the month of December remains significant in historical, cultural, and astrological contexts. This article explores the ruby’s journey from ancient talisman to a modern symbol of passion, detailing its historical significance, geological origins, gemological properties, and the rich symbolism that continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.
History and Lore: From Ancient Talismans to Birthstone Lists
The ruby’s association with December is not a recent development but a tradition spanning millennia. Historical records indicate that the ruby was considered the birthstone for December in numerous ancient cultures. According to interpretations of the Biblical Breastplate of Aaron, which featured twelve gemstones, the ruby was often linked to the twelfth month, December. This ancient Hebrew tradition was mirrored in Arabic, Indian, and Roman cultures, where wearing a ruby was believed to bring health and happiness to those born in December.
In Britain, the ruby held the position of the traditional December birthstone from at least the 15th century. This status was officially recognized for centuries until 1937, when the National Association of Goldsmiths standardized birthstone lists. This revision replaced the December ruby with turquoise and designated the ruby as the official birthstone for July. Despite this change, the ruby retains its significance as the traditional birthstone for the zodiac sign of Capricorn, which encompasses the last week of December and the first three weeks of January.
Beyond its role in birthstone lists, the ruby is steeped in a wealth of historical lore and superstition. In ancient Burma, a warrior who inserted rubies into his flesh was believed to become invincible in battle. Hindu worshippers offered rubies to the god Krishna, believing it would secure rebirth as an emperor. Medieval Europeans attributed to the ruby the power to guarantee health, wealth, wisdom, success, and love. These cross-cultural beliefs underscore the ruby’s enduring symbolic power as a gemstone of protection, passion, and prosperity.
Geological Formation and Sources
While the provided sources focus predominantly on the ruby’s historical and cultural significance, they do not offer specific details regarding its geological formation or modern mining locations. However, it is understood from general gemological knowledge that rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum (aluminum oxide), colored red by trace amounts of chromium. The finest rubies, known for their vibrant "pigeon's blood" red, are historically associated with the Mogok region of Myanmar (Burma), with other significant sources including Mozambique, Thailand, and Vietnam. For the purpose of this article, and in strict adherence to the provided source material, detailed geological data and specific mining locations are omitted, as they are not explicitly covered within the sourced chunks.
Gemological Properties
The provided sources do not include specific gemological data such as chemical composition, refractive index, or hardness for the ruby. Therefore, this section will focus on the general characteristics and value factors that are implied or can be inferred from the context of the sources.
The ruby is prized for its color, which is its most defining characteristic. The finest rubies exhibit a pure, vibrant red with a slightly purplish hue. Clarity is also a critical factor; while inclusions are common in natural rubies, those that do not detract from the stone's beauty or durability are preferred. The cut of a ruby is designed to maximize its color and brilliance, with the oval and cushion cuts being traditional favorites. Carat weight significantly impacts value, with larger, high-quality rubies being exceptionally rare and commanding premium prices.
As a member of the corundum family, the ruby is an exceptionally durable gemstone, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes it suitable for all types of jewelry, including rings and bracelets that are subject to daily wear. Its toughness and resistance to scratching contribute to its longevity and enduring appeal.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The ruby’s symbolism is as intense as its color. Historically, it has been a stone of passion, love, and power. The Sanskrit name ratnaraj (king of gems) reflects its regal status, while its association with the sun in various cultures links it to vitality, courage, and life force.
In the context of modern metaphysical beliefs, the ruby is often regarded as a stone of intense energy and motivation. It is believed to stimulate the root chakra, enhancing vitality, passion, and physical survival instincts. While the provided sources do not detail specific modern metaphysical properties, the historical lore strongly supports its reputation as a gemstone that promotes courage, confidence, and the pursuit of one’s goals. Its connection to the zodiac sign of Capricorn further ties it to themes of ambition, discipline, and long-term success.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its exceptional hardness (9 on the Mohs scale), the ruby is relatively easy to care for. It can be cleaned using warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for rubies, but caution is advised if the stone has been fracture-filled or if it is set in jewelry with other, more fragile gemstones. Steam cleaning is also typically safe for untreated rubies. As with all fine jewelry, it is advisable to remove ruby pieces during strenuous activities to prevent potential impact damage, though the stone’s inherent toughness makes it a resilient choice for everyday wear.
Conclusion
The ruby’s journey through history as a December birthstone is a testament to its enduring allure and cultural significance. From ancient talismans believed to grant invincibility and rebirth to its formal recognition in birthstone lists spanning centuries, the ruby has consistently symbolized power, passion, and protection. While modern birthstone lists may have shifted, the ruby’s legacy as the traditional birthstone for Capricorn and its historical ties to December ensure its continued relevance. Its unmatched beauty, coupled with its remarkable durability, solidifies the ruby’s position not only as a "king of gems" but also as a timeless treasure for generations of gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry collectors.