Rubies have a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The word “ruby” comes from the Latin word “ruber,” which means red. Rubies have been prized for their vibrant red color and have been used in jewelry and adornments for centuries. The ancient Hindus believed that rubies were the “king of gems” and that they could protect the wearer from harm. In ancient Burma, now known as Myanmar, warriors would insert rubies into their skin before going into battle, believing that the gemstone would make them invincible. The ancient Greeks and Romans also valued rubies for their beauty and believed that they held the power of love and passion. In medieval Europe, rubies were considered to be a symbol of wealth and power, and were often worn by royalty and nobility.
During the Renaissance, rubies were highly sought after and were often used in royal jewelry. The Mogok Valley in Burma has been a major source of rubies for centuries, and the Burmese rubies were particularly prized for their deep red color. In the 19th century, new sources of rubies were discovered in places like Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar, leading to an increase in the availability of rubies around the world. Today, rubies continue to be a popular choice for jewelry, and they are often used in engagement rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.
Key Takeaways
- Rubies have been used in jewelry for centuries, with a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians and the Chinese.
- Rubies hold significant cultural and religious symbolism in various cultures, representing love, passion, and protection.
- Ruby jewelry comes in a variety of cuts and settings, including the popular round, oval, and cushion cuts, as well as classic solitaire and halo settings.
- To care for and maintain ruby jewelry, it is important to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, clean regularly with a soft cloth, and store in a separate compartment to prevent scratching.
- Ruby jewelry symbolizes love, passion, and prosperity, making it a meaningful and timeless choice for gifts and personal adornment.
The Significance of Rubies in Different Cultures
Rubies have held significant cultural and religious importance in many different cultures throughout history. In ancient India, rubies were believed to bring good fortune and protect the wearer from evil. They were also associated with the sun and were thought to bring vitality and energy to the wearer. In Hinduism, rubies were considered to be one of the most precious gemstones and were often used in religious ceremonies and offerings.
In ancient China, rubies were associated with prosperity, success, and protection. The Chinese believed that rubies could bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. Rubies were often used in imperial jewelry and were considered to be a symbol of power and authority. In Islamic culture, rubies were highly valued and were often used as adornments in jewelry and clothing. They were also believed to have healing properties and were used to treat various ailments.
In Western culture, rubies have long been associated with love and passion. They are often used in engagement rings as a symbol of enduring love and commitment. Rubies are also the birthstone for the month of July, and they are believed to bring good fortune to those born in that month. Overall, rubies have held a special significance in many different cultures around the world and continue to be highly valued for their beauty and symbolism.
The Different Cuts and Settings for Ruby Jewelry
Rubies are often cut into various shapes to enhance their beauty and brilliance. Some of the most popular cuts for rubies include oval, round, pear, emerald, and cushion cuts. Each cut brings out different aspects of the ruby’s color and clarity, allowing for a wide range of design possibilities. Rubies are also often set in different types of settings to create unique and stunning jewelry pieces. Some common settings for ruby jewelry include prong settings, bezel settings, pave settings, and channel settings.
Prong settings are one of the most popular choices for ruby rings, as they allow the maximum amount of light to enter the stone, enhancing its brilliance. Bezel settings are another popular choice for ruby jewelry, as they provide a secure setting while also showcasing the beauty of the ruby. Pave settings feature small diamonds or other gemstones set closely together to create a sparkling surface, often used in combination with rubies to create intricate designs. Channel settings are often used in ruby bracelets and necklaces, where the stones are set closely together in a channel of metal to create a continuous line of sparkle.
Overall, the different cuts and settings for ruby jewelry allow for a wide range of design options, from classic solitaire rings to intricate statement pieces. Whether set in white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum, rubies can be paired with various metals to create stunning jewelry that suits any style or occasion.
How to Care for and Maintain Ruby Jewelry
| Aspect | Care and Maintenance |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | Use a soft brush and mild detergent to clean ruby jewelry. Avoid harsh chemicals. |
| Storage | Store ruby jewelry in a separate compartment to prevent scratches. Keep away from other gemstones. |
| Avoiding Damage | Avoid wearing ruby jewelry during physical activities to prevent damage. Remove before using cleaning agents. |
| Professional Inspection | Have your ruby jewelry inspected by a professional jeweler at least once a year. |
Proper care and maintenance are essential for keeping ruby jewelry looking its best. Rubies are relatively hard gemstones, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, just below diamonds. However, they can still be susceptible to damage if not cared for properly. To keep ruby jewelry looking beautiful for years to come, it’s important to follow some simple care tips.
Firstly, it’s important to protect rubies from scratches and hard blows by storing them separately from other jewelry pieces. When not being worn, ruby jewelry should be stored in a fabric-lined jewelry box or pouch to prevent scratching. It’s also important to avoid exposing rubies to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures, as these can damage the stone.
Regular cleaning is also important for maintaining the beauty of ruby jewelry. To clean rubies at home, they can be soaked in warm soapy water and gently scrubbed with a soft brush to remove any dirt or oil buildup. It’s important to rinse the rubies thoroughly after cleaning and pat them dry with a soft cloth.
For more thorough cleaning or if there is significant dirt buildup, it’s best to take ruby jewelry to a professional jeweler for cleaning. Additionally, it’s important to have ruby jewelry inspected by a jeweler regularly to check for loose stones or any signs of damage.
By following these simple care tips, ruby jewelry can be kept looking beautiful and vibrant for years to come.
The Symbolism and Meaning Behind Ruby Jewelry
Rubies have long been associated with love, passion, and vitality, making them a popular choice for romantic gifts and special occasions. In many cultures, rubies are believed to bring good fortune and protection to the wearer. They are also associated with strength and courage, making them a meaningful choice for those facing challenges or embarking on new adventures.
In addition to their symbolic meanings, rubies are also believed to have healing properties. In ancient times, rubies were thought to have the power to restore vitality and energy to the body. They were also believed to bring clarity of mind and improve concentration.
In astrology, rubies are associated with the zodiac sign of Leo and are believed to bring strength and confidence to those born under this sign. Rubies are also the birthstone for the month of July and are believed to bring good luck and prosperity to those born in that month.
Overall, ruby jewelry holds deep symbolic meaning and is often given as a meaningful gift to celebrate love, strength, and vitality.
Famous Ruby Jewelry Pieces Throughout History
Throughout history, there have been many famous ruby jewelry pieces that have captured the world’s attention with their beauty and significance. One of the most famous ruby pieces is the “Necklace of the Grand Duchess Vladimir,” which features 30 stunning cushion-cut rubies surrounded by diamonds. This necklace has been passed down through generations of Russian royalty and is now part of the British royal collection.
Another famous ruby piece is the “Liberty Bell Ruby,” which is a 8,500-carat ruby carved into the shape of the Liberty Bell. This incredible piece was carved from a single large ruby crystal and is considered one of the largest carved rubies in the world.
The “Rosser Reeves Star Ruby” is another famous ruby piece that is known for its exceptional size and color. This 138-carat star ruby is considered one of the finest examples of its kind and is named after its former owner, advertising executive Rosser Reeves.
In addition to these famous pieces, there have been many stunning ruby jewelry pieces worn by celebrities on the red carpet and at special events. From Elizabeth Taylor’s iconic ruby necklace to Angelina Jolie’s stunning ruby earrings, rubies have long been a favorite choice for making a statement on the red carpet.
How to Style and Wear Ruby Jewelry for Any Occasion
Ruby jewelry can be styled in a variety of ways to suit any occasion, from casual everyday wear to formal events. For a classic look, a simple pair of ruby stud earrings or a solitaire ruby pendant can add a touch of elegance to any outfit. These timeless pieces can be worn with casual attire or dressed up for a special occasion.
For a more dramatic look, statement ruby pieces such as chandelier earrings or a bold ruby cocktail ring can make a stunning impression at formal events or evening occasions. These eye-catching pieces can be paired with a simple black dress or an elegant gown for a show-stopping look.
When it comes to styling ruby jewelry with other pieces, it’s important to consider the overall look and balance of the outfit. Mixing rubies with other gemstones such as diamonds or sapphires can create a striking contrast and add depth to the overall look.
Overall, ruby jewelry offers endless possibilities for styling and wearing for any occasion. Whether it’s a simple everyday look or a glamorous evening ensemble, rubies can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit.
If you’re interested in learning more about the ethical sourcing of ruby jewelry, check out this article on ethicalfidelity.com. This website provides valuable information on the importance of ethical practices in the jewelry industry and how to ensure that the rubies in your jewelry are sourced responsibly. It’s a great resource for anyone who wants to make informed and ethical purchasing decisions when it comes to ruby jewelry.
FAQs
What is ruby jewelry?
Ruby jewelry refers to any piece of jewelry that features rubies as the main gemstone. Rubies are a type of precious gemstone known for their deep red color and are often used in various types of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.
What are the characteristics of rubies?
Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, and they are known for their rich red color. They are one of the four precious gemstones, along with diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds. Rubies are also valued for their hardness, second only to diamonds, making them durable and suitable for everyday wear.
How are rubies used in jewelry?
Rubies are often used as the focal point in jewelry pieces, such as in the center of a ring or pendant. They can also be used as accent stones alongside other gemstones, such as diamonds or sapphires. Rubies are commonly set in precious metals like gold or platinum to create stunning and luxurious jewelry pieces.
What are the different types of ruby jewelry?
Ruby jewelry comes in various forms, including ruby rings, ruby necklaces, ruby earrings, and ruby bracelets. Additionally, rubies can be used in combination with other gemstones to create unique and eye-catching jewelry designs.
How are rubies graded for use in jewelry?
Rubies are graded based on their color, clarity, cut, and carat weight, similar to other gemstones. The most valuable rubies are those with a deep, vibrant red color, minimal inclusions, and a well-proportioned cut that maximizes their brilliance. Carat weight also plays a role in determining the value of a ruby.