Ruby is a dark reddish gemstone that has been a favorite of monarchs, actresses and aristocrats. There is a centuries-old history behind the ruby stone, where it became the “Queen of Gemstones.” In ancient European and Hindu cultures, it was considered the "stone of the Sun" and therefore represents vitality, inner fire, love and passion.
History and origin
People learned about ruby 300–400 BC. In the East, scarlet crystals were revered as the blood of the Dragon.
Ruby
For Ancient Rome it was the number one stone.
- The red ruby is the first of 12 gems on the robe of the high priest of Ancient Judea. King Solomon owned the ring with the star gem.
- Aesculapians of the Middle Ages treated the plague with ruby; alchemists were as eager to obtain it as the philosopher’s stone.
- Two stones (47 and 37 carats) sold by the Burmese king financially ensured his reign and prosperity for several generations.
Ruby means “red” in Latin. Other names for the stone: lal, carbuncle, yakhont. Used as synonyms for the official name.
Who should refrain from purchasing rubies?
Along with those zodiac signs for whom ruby is suitable as a talisman stone, it is important to know about those representatives for whom the stone can cause some harm. The gem itself does not pose a threat to humans. It just has its own energy wave, which interacts with the horoscope, the elements, and other important signs. And if ruby strengthens some qualities, then, on the contrary, it weakens others. Therefore, such jewelry should not be worn by people who do not really like the intense rhythm of life, business activity and constantly changing events.
Physicochemical characteristics
Ruby is a variety of corundum and is a top-tier gemstone.
Ruby
Second only to diamond in hardness, the color of ruby is always red. Natural stone with any shade has uneven or zonal coloring.
The length of the pristine gem reaches 2 cm.
| Formula | Al2O3 |
| Color | Red, red-brown, red-purple, red-pink |
| Shine | Glass |
| Transparency | Transparent |
| Hardness | 9 |
| Cleavage | Imperfect |
| Kink | Conchoidal |
| Density | 3.99—4.10 g/cm³ |
Properties of rubies
Ruby belongs to the class of corundums, which are aluminum oxide – Al?O?. Density 3.97-4.05 g/cm?. Has optical anisotropy. The red color is due to chromium impurities. But other elements are also identified among the impurities, for example, titanium or iron are occasionally present. Therefore, ruby can produce purple, rose-red, red and dark red shades.
Ruby is a hard stone - 9 on the Mohs scale. It is second only to diamond, although its hardness is much less than that of diamond.
Ruby is a red stone, but its richness of shades is great. Every nuance in the color of a ruby determines its quality, and therefore its cost.
Jewelry rubies are not so common. And the reason is the same chromium, which creates cracks and fractures in the ruby crystal. Therefore, ruby crystals are rarely found weighing 2 or more carats.
What about the large rubies that adorn the royal crowns? Where did they come from, if in nature everything is not so simple? The fact is that many large crystals in the crowns turned out to be ruby spinels or rubellites (red tourmalines).
Ruby deposits
Ruby crystals are mined in many places on the planet, but mainly Asian and African gems are valued. The most beautiful and high-quality rubies have always been mined in Burma (Myanmar) - amazingly beautiful crystals with a deep rich red color, with a hint of blue, which is called the color of “pigeon’s blood”.
Today, these rubies are the standard of quality; they retain their color in any light. The discovery of ruby deposits in Burma occurred in the 15th century. The Mogok mines in the north of the country, where beautiful crystals are mined, were discovered by accident. Thieves and bandits of the Burmese kingdom were exiled here. It was they who found the beautiful stones, which they did not doubt, and sent them as a gift to the ruler of the country.
When the monarch received valuable gifts, the thieves and bandits were pardoned and allowed to return to their homes. However, many decided to stay on this land, away from people, in order to mine beautiful stones. But now, according to the ruler’s order, they had to give large gems to the state treasury. And if anyone conceals it, he will pay for it with his life.
Such a ban led to the fact that the world never saw the beauty of many large gems, since lawbreakers split large stones into smaller ones and smuggled them to Calcutta. There the precious stones ended up in the treasuries of the Maharaja or were sent to Europe.
Today, Mogok's mines continue to operate, they are under strict government control and are leased only to nationals of the country. The mine area is carefully guarded.
Among Burmese rubies there are star-shaped crystals, on the surface of which, if cut correctly, a six- or twelve-rayed star will appear. This asterism effect occurs due to the presence of needle-shaped rutile inclusions located in the crystal structure at an angle of 120?. The crystals are very beautiful; after cutting they take on a silky shine.
There are also deposits of dark red rubies in Myanmar, which have not been used in jewelry production for a long time. But then they discovered that after heat treatment they acquire the same color that is characteristic of the standard Burmese. These rubies also became popular and are now used in jewelry.
Another country that can lay claim to the best rubies in the world is Thailand. Dark red crystals with a brown tint were found here. They are called "Siamese". Rubies of unique beauty are found in Ceylon. They are valued for their rarity; the color of the gems ranges from light red tones to the color of ripe raspberries.
In Vietnam, rubies with a purple hue are mined. There are rubies in Laos, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nepal, the Pamirs, India, Kenya, Tanzania.
Place of extraction
Ruby is found throughout the world, but is often opaque. Corundums are found in mountains (primary or primary deposits) or rivers (placer deposits).
Ruby
The richest and oldest deposits are in Burma and Sri Lanka (Ceylon).
Each deposit has its own color of stone:
- Burma (Myanmar) - red;
- Ceylon - pale colored, purple and star-shaped;
- Madagascar - especially transparent and clean;
- Tanzania - raspberry transparent, glowing after cutting;
- Thailand - dark red and brown;
- Vietnam - purple;
- Indian Kashmir - scarlet.
Sometimes the description of gems from the same mine differs. In the mines of Kashmir, mining is carried out 90 days a year.
The best rubies - deep, rich colors - are mined in Burma (Mogok region). Price range: $25–$5,500 per 1 carat.
In Russia, rubies are found in the Northern Urals and the Kola Peninsula, but there are no separate mines. The gem is mined along the way.
Where is it mined?
Rubies were formed from sedimentary rocks at temperatures of about 430°C and high pressure. The depth of their occurrence in some places reaches more than 30 m. Most often they are formed in dolomite massifs, with inclusions of marble and granite.
Rubies are mined in mines and adits after the destruction of the parent rock. But the richest deposits are in alluvial placers.
The deposits are located in different parts of the world. Minerals differ in quality and price.
The most ancient ones are located in Burma (today the reserves are almost depleted). The most valuable dark red rubies are obtained here.
The second place in quality is occupied by stones from Sri Lanka. Siamese, mined in Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia, are slightly inferior to them.
Deposits with second-grade rubies are located in the following countries:
- Afghanistan
- Pakistan
- Australia
- USA
- Brazil
- Madagascar
- Tanzania
- Malawi
- Kenya
- Madagascar
- Zimbabwe
- Switzerland
- Norway
In the twentieth century, deposits were found in Russia. Mining is carried out in the Southern Urals (Mramorny Log deposit), the Polar Urals (Rai-Iz), the Kola Peninsula, and North Karelia.
Varieties and colors
Ruby is red corundum. The gamma is given by chromium impurities: the more of them, the darker and brighter the stone.
Corundums of other colors (green, yellow, blue, pink, colorless) are sapphires. Black ruby (picotite) is actually a dark (chrome) spinel.
Natural stones
Varieties of natural rubies:
- Stellate (or "stellar"). Any shade, the asterism effect is required - a six-pointed star created by rutile impurities. A rarely found specimen - with a double asterism (12-pointed star).
Star ruby - With cat eye effect. Specimens with parallel-oriented needle inclusions of other minerals.
Cat's eye ruby
A clean, transparent crystal with a clear, regular star or stripe is exorbitantly expensive. Cloudy specimens are much cheaper.
The color of ruby varies. This is the basis of the commercial grade classification: excellent, dark, light.
Varieties of Burmese stones received their own names:
- “pigeon blood” - the most expensive, rare, bright red color;
- “ox blood” - predominance of dark tones;
- cherry.
There is a classification of rubies by country of extraction: Indian, Tanzanian, Ceylon, Burmese, Madagascar.
Refined mineral
The transparent color of the crystal is rare; specimens that are not ideal by jewelers’ standards are “improved” by heat treatment. Heating the stone neutralizes the tint (for example, yellowishness) and impurities.
The resulting crystals are called heated, and stones that are not treated with high temperatures and have a natural color are called unheated. Jewelers call this procedure a natural “cure” for the crystal. Used in 95% of cases.
“Heated” copies are three to four times cheaper than natural ones. A carat of heated ruby costs from $110. In Russia they make up the majority of the ruby assortment. If there are voids left, they are filled with molten colored, transparent glass, resins or oils.
A natural, inconspicuous stone becomes a natural substitute for a ruby. Its cost is $30 per carat.
Description and meaning
Ruby is a precious stone second only to diamond in hardness and significance. And in ancient times, this marvelous gem even surpassed in importance. Since ancient times it was considered a royal decoration. They were used to decorate symbols of power and royal household items.
It is generally accepted that ruby is an exclusively red stone. However, this is not the case. With different chemical compositions, its shades vary from bright scarlet to dark red, occasionally brown-red and even violet-red.
There are several types of ruby:
- “Pigeon Blood” has a bright scarlet color with a purple tint. The rarest and most expensive among its kind.
- “Star ruby” - its value lies in the six-rayed star, which is located in the center of the processed mineral. Typically, these stones are opaque, although there are exceptions. It is extremely rare to find a double star, that is, twelve faces are clearly visible. This is an incredibly mesmerizing sight.
Expensive and natural minerals are mined mainly in South Asian countries such as Thailand, Sri Lanka, Burma and Vietnam. If the certificate indicates an unknown deposit, and the cost of the stone itself is low, there is reason to be wary.
Artificial ruby
Natural stone is available to only a few, so technologies for producing an analogue have been developed. This is the first gem reproduced by people.
Ruby crystals are grown in several ways. The most popular is the Verneuil method. The Frenchman obtained “Siamese rubies” by fusing ruby powder. In three hours, a 30-carat synthetic stone is obtained. It looks natural.
In the 20th century, new methods for producing artificial crystals appeared: Czochralski and zone melting methods, crystallization from solutions in the melt or from the gas phase; hydrothermal method.
Latest most popular:
- cheap minerals are mixed with additives and melted;
- the mass is crystallized under a set pressure and at high temperature;
- Large stones are formed; their composition and properties are identical to natural ones.
Such rubies are called hydrothermal.
Ruby
All rubies in Soviet jewelry from jewelry stores are artificial.
How to clean rubies
Because rubies are so strong and durable, they are easy to care for. However, it is not recommended to wear the jewelry if you are doing any rough dirty work or using strong chemicals.
Rubies should be stored in a cloth box, away from other jewelry, as they can scratch softer gemstones.
You can clean the stone with soapy water and a brush. Cleaning with a special detergent for jewelry is allowed. It is important to rinse the stone thoroughly and dry it after cleaning. If you take care of your ruby, it will retain its beauty for many years to come.
Medicinal properties
Lithotherapists have discovered the healing properties of the mineral:
- improves blood flow, pressure, tones blood vessels;
- strengthens the immune system;
- heals the heart;
- heals wounds;
- improves brain functioning;
- eliminates depression or stress;
- effective for epilepsy or paralysis.
Sore spots are treated by applying a crystal.
Ruby is a powerful emitter of energy. Sunlight passing through the stone helps more.
The water in which the stone has lain overnight has healing properties. They drink it or wash their face to be beautiful. It helps to recover from illness or nervous shock.
Magic properties
The magical properties of scarlet ruby were recognized throughout the ancient world and are used in the modern world.
Faceted ruby
Ruby in religions
The secret symbolism of the crystal was used by the servants of the main faiths of the world:
- Indian sages considered the corundum crystal to be a means of influencing the masses of people;
- the rabbis of Ancient Judea, knowing about its connection with Mars - the planet of war and disasters, used the stone carefully;
- Chaldean magicians prescribed wearing a crystal for women who wanted, but were unable to become mothers;
- Buddhists understood the meaning of ruby as generating aspiration for high goals.
Customs associated with stone
Since ancient times, the presence of poisons in a liquid was detected by immersing a ring with a ruby in a bowl. Swords were tested by bringing the ring insert closer to the blade.
To make a girl inflamed with passion, noble grooms or knights presented a fiery ruby. This technique also works today.
The magical power of gems in life
The magical properties of natural stone, recognized by everyone:
- a strong amulet against negativity such as the evil eye or damage, especially in a gold frame;
- a powerful talisman for women: attracts male attention, strengthens relationships;
- restores positivity and self-confidence;
- changing color or fading, warns of danger;
- makes the owner merciful, generously helping his neighbor;
- the owner of the stone discovers his courage or previously dormant talents.
Red ruby
The properties of the magic stone ruby are available only to a kind person. For other cases, the gem is dangerous. The magic of the stone does not change the character of the owner. Ruby reveals and enhances what is on the surface or hidden by a person. The aggressive ones become more aggressive, the vicious ones become more vicious, the honest ones become more honest.
The properties of ruby have a dual effect on weak-willed people: the owner will become pushy or go “in the wrong direction.”
A natural stone serves as a talisman or amulet.
Properties of red stone
The red color makes it a fire element stone. The inhabitants of the ancient East called it a clot of dragon blood, the inhabitants of ancient India believed that it symbolized the Sun. It is also a symbol of love. If the stone is deep red - passionate love, if pink - tender.
Medicinal properties
Ancient Hindus used this mineral to treat epilepsy, depression and paralysis. Medieval alchemists ground ruby into powder and made a cure for intestinal and stomach ailments, as well as impotence. Only rich patients could afford such a powder, and it was recommended to take it by dissolving it in wine.
Modern lithotherapists also appreciate it. They believe that ruby can treat hypertension, bronchial asthma, ailments of the eyes, ears and throat, and solve problems with the spine and joints. It also treats depression and insomnia.
By the way, for treatment you can not only wear the stone on yourself, but also make a water infusion with it. Of course, the mineral must be real and the larger the better.
Magical
The red stone excited the feelings and minds of our ancestors. It truly has magical properties. He is highly revered by Indian Buddhists. So in our time they believe that it generates greatness in people, and this is its main magical property. In their opinion, the stone gives people a sense of omnipotence and the ability to influence others, subordinating them to their will.
Star rubies, which have already been described above, give a person moral strength and dispel melancholy. They will help you cope with depression and protect you from the most powerful black magic. Those who wear rubies become more courageous and filled with self-esteem. The mineral brings thirst back to life and relieves the apathy characteristic of depressive individuals. A talisman with a ruby revives lost strength and creates harmony of feelings and mind, revives in people the ability to perform feats and great deeds.
And finally, this is the element of fire, which means it gives passion, strength and sexual energy. This is the stone of all lovers, which brings couples harmony in sex and simply happiness.
Special attention should be paid to pink rubies. They especially affect women, help to conceive and bear a child, relieve infertility and give strength to bear a baby. They also affect male strength and fertility.
But this is a stone of sincere intentions; it is not recommended for those who do not believe in themselves or are up to something evil.
In the video below you will learn more about the magical and healing properties of this stone.
Who is suitable according to their zodiac sign?
This is a fire symbol, and it has long been found out which zodiac signs it is useful for.
According to the zodiac sign, natural ruby is suitable for representatives of all elements:
- Fire - the gem will energize.
- The earth will become a support for strengthening the spirit.
- Water - character is harmonized, composure appears, but, despite zodiac compatibility, it is advisable to lower self-esteem.
- Air - crystals that match the horoscope will enhance the assertiveness of vacillating natures.
The elite ruby stone is of particular importance for people who lack self-confidence. With such an accessory, everyone will become a self-sufficient person who knows his own worth.
| Zodiac sign | Compatibility |
| Aries | + |
| Taurus | — |
| Twins | + |
| Cancer | +++ |
| a lion | + |
| Virgo | — |
| Scales | + |
| Skoripon | + |
| Sagittarius | +++ |
| Capricorn | + |
| Aquarius | + |
| Fish | + |
(“+++” – fits perfectly, “+” – can be worn, “-” – is strictly contraindicated)
Who is it suitable for and who is not?
Ruby enhances self-confidence, but for those who do not have it, wearing it is pointless. He is also not a suitable representative of some zodiac signs.
Zodiac signs
Astrologers believe that this is a stone from the planet Mars. This planet makes people ardent and somewhat cruel, and also gives certain magical abilities. The Red Planet does not recognize falsehood and double bottom, so everyone who wears rubies needs to be careful? It also enhances our negative character traits.
The mineral is most suitable for Sagittarius, Aries and Leo. So, the latter is recommended to wear a ring and earrings with this stone. His energy will make Leo especially attractive
Thanks to the ruby, Sagittarius will become more confident and find their true love.
It is less suitable for earth signs. Thus, Taurus who are too straightforward will become even more straightforward with this stone. This stone is not very suitable for Virgos. For whom the stone of the fire element is definitely not suitable, it is Gemini, Cancer and Scorpio.
Ruby and other stones
Precious stones can also be friends and enemies with each other. Some minerals emphasize the strong properties of ruby, while others neutralize them. And the stone itself can both enhance the effect of different stones and reduce their strength.
So, ruby goes well with the following minerals:
- Agates and amethysts;
- Corals;
- Sapphires,
- Pearls (especially white);
- Turquoise;
- Emeralds;
- Beryls;
- Carnelians;
- Lapis lazuli.
It combines neutrally with topaz. The combination with garnets, aquamarine, heliotrope, moonstones, rose quartz, jasper and opal will be controversial. Absolutely incompatible with malachites, obsidians, onyxes and sardonyxes.
Names and ruby
Most of all, the red stone is suitable for Annas, Barbarians, Veras, Polinas and Yanas. Men named Vasily should also pay attention to him.
Where is it used?
Rubies are used by the beauty industry and industry.
Jewelry
The main area of use of ruby. Natural or artificial gems are used.
Ruby bracelet
People go to auctions in Asia to buy rubies: the largest cities in Burma hold them every six months. In the capital of Thailand, prices for local rubies are lower.
Stone evaluation
The value of a ruby is determined by the following parameters:
- color of the stone - the richer and brighter, the better;
- structure - cracks, darkening or bubbles reduce the price;
- weight - a carat of a large specimen is more expensive than a carat of a small one;
- cut - if the lower segment is larger than the upper, the stone is more expensive;
- inclusions reduce the price, but a uniform soft “silk” in a transparent crystal (no frills) is welcome.
Rubies, as high-class stones, are sold at auctions.
A certificate for a ruby purchased at a salon must indicate whether the stone has been refined or is 100% natural.
Pendant with ruby
Most salons or online stores sell synthetic or heated rubies.
Price
Domestic Internet platforms offer different stones. For example, a real Burmese cabochon:
- red, heated - 0.12 carats for 6.8 thousand rubles.
- fiery red, heated - 3.24 carats for 1341 thousand rubles;
- blood color, without heat treatment - 3.94 carats for 3292 thousand rubles.
Jewelry is presented in price segments:
- premium - natural rubies, diamonds, 750 gold, platinum;
- budget - silver (925 standard), gold (585 standard), hydrothermal rubies, cubic zirconia.
Prices differ by 10–15 times.
The cost of top quality rubies larger than five carats starts at $100,000, and for pigeon's blood color, at $500,000 per carat. There are cheap options.
The cost of local rubies in Indian markets is up to $1 per carat (maximum $5 per gram), a bracelet made from them costs $32–35.
Wardrobe
Ruby is not a democratic gem; it needs appropriate clothing: luxurious or discreetly elegant.
- Jewelry is incompatible with winter, demi-season, simple clothes or a tracksuit, or chunky shoes.
- Three jewels on an outfit is too much.
- The gem will “melt” against a red background.
Jewelry with ruby
Ruby is suitable for people of any age; you just need to choose the color, size and frame. The younger the owner, the smaller and lighter the stone.
Decor
The jewelry assortment is enriched with items that decorate life: candelabra, boxes, table clocks. Ruby inlay makes them luxurious.
A ruby desk writing instrument is a useful status item.
Other areas
Artificial rubies are used in laser technologies, instrument making, quantum electronics or as watch stones.
Ruby Jewelry
The crystal is used for inlaying products made of platinum, gold and silver. It is used to create rings, cabochons, earrings, pendants and bracelets, and jewelry sets.
Cost of products and favorable time for purchase
The price of the products depends on the quality of the stones and the material of the frame. The minimum cost of rings made of gold and silver with this mineral is 13-15 thousand rubles. The price of earrings starts from 20 thousand rubles. Pendants and pendants cost 19-30 thousand rubles. In this case, the maximum cost reaches several million dollars.
It is believed that the best time to buy jewelry with a ruby is the 17th lunar day. In this case, you should start wearing the product on the 3rd lunar day.
How to Wear Ruby Jewelry
Crystals are considered elite precious stones, therefore, when wearing products with them, it is extremely important to choose the right outfit. The image needs to be elegant and discreet.
It is unacceptable to wear such products with winter clothing. Ruby does not go well with sporty clothing and bulky shoes.
Ruby rings are a symbol of passion and luxury.
You can wear no more than 2-3 jewelry at the same time. You should not combine products with a gemstone with red dresses or suits, so that the stone does not get lost against their background. Experts recommend putting on jewelry after applying makeup.
Product care rules
Ruby products should be stored in a closed casket, in which they will be protected from direct sunlight. You should avoid contacting the stone with household chemicals.
To clean jewelry, use a soapy solution and a soft brush. If the contamination is intense, the product should first be soaked in warm water.
How to spot a fake
There are ways to determine the origin of a stone at home. Natural ruby has the following properties:
- has a uniform, even shine;
- it is difficult to break;
- if there are cracks, then they are chaotic (ordered ones are typical for a fake);
- it gets dark in the light; and if the background remains the same or becomes lighter, this means imitation;
- does not change color under ultraviolet light: synthetics will turn orange;
- in a glass a real stone glows reddish, in milk it becomes lighter;
- scratches almost all minerals (garnet, turquoise, etc.), which is inaccessible to synthetics;
- there are no bubbles in it (if there are, they match the color of the stone);
- In your hands, a ruby does not heat up immediately, unlike a fake.
A microscope or magnifying glass helps determine the authenticity: the glass frozen inside glows orange or blue.
How to wear and care
The stone is durable, but you need to wear jewelry with rubies and store the gem carefully.
Jewelry with ruby
General rules
They are the same as those of other precious gems:
- the stone does not like the scorching sun, perfume, cosmetics and household chemicals;
- jewelry is worn when makeup is applied;
- soiled jewelry is soaked for 20–30 minutes, washed with warm water and soap and a soft brush;
- stored in a soft inside box, each piece of jewelry separately. Only expensive stones of equal class can be neighbors.
An energetically powerful stone, you should not wear it constantly due to the risk of overstimulation.
Cautions
The qualities of ruby are contradictory; not everyone can wear it:
- Helps people who know what they want and how to achieve it.
- Activates the best qualities, but does not tolerate double standards from the owner.
- If the owner goes head-to-head towards the goal, the ruby organizes the loss of what he has accumulated in one fell swoop.
- Contraindicated for those suffering from hemophilia (blood inability to clot) or hypertension (high blood pressure).
- Increases the energy of people experiencing physical activity.
An uncut stone is magically stronger than a cut one.
Jewelry Specialization
The combination of jewelry solves problems of life and health:
- ring plus earrings - luring love;
- earrings and pendant - increased immunity;
- beads, necklace and pendant - solution to heart problems;
- silver rings - solving issues, activating talents.
Ruby pendant
Ruby wedding is the 40th anniversary of marriage. Spouses exchange or accept items with rubies in gold as gifts.
Ruby for women
Ladies love the stone very much for its sparkling beauty. But in addition to aesthetic appeal, they use the precious mineral as:
- Amulets. It helps restore emotional power and accomplish high deeds and noble deeds;
- The stone protects against losses and troubles. He brings happiness, respect and recognition from outsiders into the lives of beauties;
- Ladies have no problems relating to the opposite sex. Love and passion reign here.
