Unveiling the Mystery & Majesty of Ruby: A Gem of Passion and Power
Ruby, with its crimson allure and storied past, stands as a gemstone revered across cultures and throughout history. If you're a July birthstone baby, or just intrigued by this rich stone, let's dig deeper! Time to explore the captivating journey of this precious stone, from its origins deep within the Earth to its rich history and symbolic significance today. See below for "crystals at a glace" snapshot, followed with a more in-depth look!
History & Origins:
The origins of ruby are believed to date back to 2500 BC, with its discovery in the Mogok region of Myanmar, formerly Burma. 
There are reports of them being traded along China's North Silk Road around 200 BC, and are rooted in many ancient civilizations. Mentioned repeatedly in the Bible, celebrated as the most precious and valuable of gems, and ancient Hindus called it "ratnaraj," Sanskrit word meaning "king of precious stones”, one can find references to this stone in many ancient texts. It should be noted that before the 1800s, most red stones were all labeled as rubies- though we know now some of them may have been garnets or red spinels. Throughout history, rubies adorned the crowns and jewelry of royalty and nobility, symbolizing power, protection, and prosperity, and in the Middle Ages they were believed to insure victory in a multitude of circumstances: war, travels, love, and health.
Formation & Locations Found:
Did you know rubies are in the same family as sapphires? That's right, rubies belong to the corundum family, made up of aluminum and oxygen. While these elements are 2 of the 3 most abundant in our Earth's crust, corundum can only be formed in very specific conditions where there's a lack of silica.
Then under intense geological conditions, within metamorphic rocks, where high pressure and temperatures alter pre-existing minerals, rubies are formed. And the defining feature that sets rubies apart from sapphires, is the presence of chromium. This trace element is what causes its vibrant, defining red color. Primary locations rubies can be found include Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, India, and more recently, regions in East Africa and very few areas in the US in Montana and Wyoming.
Characteristics:
Rubies are prized for their intense red color, ranging from vivid crimson to deep purplish-red hues, as well as their incredible durability. As a matter of fact, it is their intensity of red that will officially define it as a true ruby - if it's pale or more purple, it may be classified as "pink sapphire", "raspberry sapphire", etc.- these varieties are considered ruby's "sister stones". On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, rubies rank 9 - second only to diamond (!)- making them exceptionally durable and suitable for jewelry. Their brilliance and clarity vary, with asterism—an optical phenomenon that creates a star-like pattern—seen in some rare specimens.
What Does it Symbolize:
Throughout cultures and ages, rubies symbolize passion, love, and courage. With its rich red hues and strength, it's no wonder feelings of the heart came to mind, as well as associations with fire, blood, passion, courage, and a romance that endures. They are often exchanged as gifts to signify deep affection and commitment, and some even opt for ruby in place of diamonds on their wedding band. In ancient folklore, rubies were believed to possess protective powers, warding off misfortune and illness while fostering vitality and energy. Royalty wore rubies as talismans against enemies and harm, attributing them with the ability to strengthen leadership and resolve conflict. A symbol of love, passion, courage and wealth - once upon a time, and even today.
Chakra & Zodiac Connection:
In metaphysical practices, rubies resonate with the Root Chakra (Muladhara), located at the base of the spine. This Chakra governs our sense of stability, security, and grounding, aligning with ruby's attributes of strength and vitality. It also has a crossover connection to the heart chakra, as it holds heart-centered properties. Astrologically, rubies are associated with the Zodiac sign of Cancer (June 21 - July 22), as it is the birthstones for July and promotes inner strength among individuals born under this sign. It also has a connection with the Sun- due to its intense "inner fire"- and rubies will resonate with Leos, as the Sun is their ruling star. This stone is not exclusive, however, to only Cancers and Leos. In fact, rubies are recommended for any sign wanting to enhance and invite in more Sun energy and vitality.
Available Adornments:
Ruby Drop Threader Earrings
Faceted Briolette Rubies & 14K goldfill
Fun Facts:
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Ruby is July's birthstone
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It is the 15th and 40th Anniversary gemstone
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Rubies are a 9 hardness on the Mohs scale - second only to diamond!
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Rubies have consistently set records at auctions due to their rarity and exceptional quality. The "Ratnaraj Ruby," a 138.7-carat Burmese ruby, sold for over $30 million in 2015.
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The "Black Prince's Ruby," set in England's Imperial State Crown, is actually a large spinel, showcasing the gem's historical prestige and confusion with other red gemstones.
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Gems labeled "Australian Ruby" or "Arizona Ruby" are actually Garnet.
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Natural and synthetic rubies are used in technology - such as medical instruments and lasers!
The Beauty of Ruby...
The ruby continues to fascinate and enchant many with its rich history, vibrant color, and enduring symbolism. Whatever it is that draws you to this stone, the ruby remains a timeless gemstone that connects us to the profound mysteries and splendors of the natural world.
What do you think?
Are you a Ruby lover or learn anything interesting here today? Drop me a word below; I'd love to know, and thanks so much for reading along. Remember to check out the shop to see what the latest is in Cocoro Studios, and sign up for The Pod for updates and exclusive offers!
ox,
Heather Marie
heart . mind. soul
#liveyourcocoro
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