Rubies, known as the “King of Gems,” have captivated humanity for centuries with their fiery red hue and unparalleled brilliance. From ancient legends to modern-day splendor, rubies are more than just gemstones; they symbolize passion, power, and protection. In this post, we will delve into the geological origins of rubies, explore significant historical pieces, uncover myths and legends, and examine their use in jewelry. We will also touch on the advent of synthetic rubies and their role in jewelry history.

Geological Origins of Rubies

Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, composed of aluminum oxide. The red color of rubies is primarily due to the presence of chromium. The most sought-after rubies are those with a vibrant, deep red color, often called “pigeon’s blood.” These gemstones are primarily found in Myanmar (formerly Burma), but significant deposits also exist in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Madagascar.

The formation of rubies dates back millions of years, occurring under extreme heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s crust. These conditions allow the corundum to crystallize and, with the correct trace elements, transform into the stunning rubies we admire today. Rubies are the red variety of corundum, while all other colors are sapphire.

Imperial State Crown with Black Prince’s “Ruby.” via Wikipedia

Significant Historical Pieces

Throughout history, rubies have adorned the crowns, jewelry, and artifacts of royalty and nobility. One of the most famous rubies is the Black Prince’s Ruby, a large, irregular red spinel set in the Imperial State Crown of England. Although not a genuine ruby, its history as a treasured gemstone highlights the value placed on red gems.

Another notable ruby is the Liberty Bell Ruby, the largest mined ruby in the world, discovered in East Africa in the 1950s. Weighing approximately 8,500 carats, this gem was sculpted into the shape of the Liberty Bell, symbolizing freedom and enduring beauty.

Rubies in Jewelry

Rubies have been a favored gemstone in jewelry for centuries and are the birthstone for July. Their hardness, second only to diamonds, makes them ideal for various types of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. The vibrant color of rubies adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any piece.

One of the most iconic uses of rubies in jewelry is the tiara worn by Queen Elizabeth II, known as the Burmese Ruby Tiara. This stunning piece features 96 rubies gifted by the people of Burma and is a testament to the timeless appeal of rubies.

Verneuil’s Machine

Synthetic Rubies and Modern Advancements

The synthesis of rubies began in the late 19th century. In 1902, French chemist Auguste Verneuil developed a flame fusion process known as the Verneuil process to create synthetic rubies. This breakthrough allowed for the mass production of rubies with the same physical and chemical properties as natural rubies, making them more accessible for jewelry and industrial applications. Learn more in our blog post here.

Due to their durability and optical properties, synthetic rubies are widely used in various industries, including watchmaking, lasers, and electronics.

Rubies as the Birthstone for July

Rubies are the birthstone for July and are believed to bestow qualities such as passion, protection, and prosperity on those born in this month. The vibrant red hue of rubies is associated with love and energy, making ruby jewelry a popular gift for July birthdays and anniversaries.

Rubies are more than beautiful gemstones; they symbolize enduring allure and historical significance. From their geological origins to their role in myths and legends, rubies have captivated the hearts of many throughout history. Whether set in a crown, a piece of fine jewelry, or created synthetically, rubies continue to shine as a testament to their timeless appeal.

As July’s birthstone, rubies bring a touch of magic and elegance to those who wear them. They embody qualities of passion, power, and protection. The journey of rubies from the depths of the Earth to the pinnacle of human adornment is a testament to their extraordinary charm and value.

Explore the world of rubies and let their fiery allure inspire you, whether you are a gem enthusiast, a collector, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature’s treasures.

Discover the timeless beauty of rubies – explore our collection and shop for these exquisite gems in our store below!

Sources:

• Gemological Institute of America (GIA). “Ruby Description.” Accessed July 3, 2024. GIA Ruby Description.
• International Gem Society. “Ruby Gemstone Description.” Accessed July 3, 2024. IGS Ruby Origin and Sources.
• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. “Famous Rubies.” Accessed July 3, 2024. Smithsonian Famous Rubies.
• Gemological Institute of America (GIA). “Legendary Gems: The Nga Mauk Ruby.” Accessed July 3, 2024. GIA Nga Mauk Ruby.
• Christie’s. “Elizabeth Taylor’s Ruby and Diamond Necklace.” Accessed July 3, 2024. Christie’s Elizabeth Taylor Necklace.
• Sotheby’s. “The Ruby: History, Lore, and Properties.” Accessed July 3, 2024. Sotheby’s Ruby History.
• GemSelect. “Ruby History and Lore.” Accessed July 3, 2024. GemSelect Ruby History.
• American Gem Society. “Ruby Birthstone.” Accessed July 3, 2024. AGS Ruby Birthstone.
• OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT (3.5) [Large language model]. https://chatgpt.com