WHAT IS THERE TO LOVE ABOUT RUBIES?
For one thing, rubies – typically being a luscious shade of red – have come to represent love as well as passion. Because of this and their high hardness rating (9.0 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness), they are becoming increasingly popular alternatives to diamonds in engagement rings. They are also a traditional gemstone for 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries. Rubies are some of the rarest gems on Earth, and they can have fluorescent properties, making them glow when placed in the sunlight.
HOW TO SHOP FOR RUBIES
Color – Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum and get their red color from the element chromium. The more chromium present, the richer the red color. The most sought after color in the world of rubies is called “pigeon’s blood” and is a deep red with an undertone of purple. That said, rubies can range in color from rich red to pinkish red to orange red to even a soft rose color.
Clarity – It is extremely rare to find a ruby that is completely transparent and clear. Try to find a ruby with inclusions towards the edge of the stone rather than in the center area. Many rubies are heat-treated to improve the clarity.
Carat – Because of the rarity of the elements that comprise rubies, most rubies typically do not grow over one carat.
Hardness – The hardness rating (9.0) of rubies is second only to diamonds, which are rated 10.0. This is part of what makes rubies so valuable as well as practical! I recommend using rubies in all applications from earrings, pendants, and especially rings, as the ruby’s hardness makes it perfect for luxurious everyday wear.
RUBY MAGIC
In addition to the power to ward off evil, rubies have also been said to bring peace, cure bleeding and inflamation, increase body warmth, and protect those in battle. Ancient warriors in Burma and China even sometimes embedded the stones into their skin because they believed it would make them invincible.
Even if you don’t believe in any of these mystical qualities, I’m sure we can all agree that the sheer beauty and vibrance of rubies hold a magic all their own. What other stone can evoke such strength and power while all at once remaining luminous and delicate?