July Birthstone: Ruby
Ruby: The King of Gemstones, A Legacy of Passion and Power
Revered throughout history as the King of Gemstones, the ruby has long held a coveted place in societies across the globe. Its intensely fiery red color and captivating fluorescence, a result of the presence of chromium, give this magnificent stone the remarkable appearance of an internal glow. Technically, rubies are a specific variety of corundum. This mineral is capable of forming in a stunning array of colors; however, only those exhibiting the rich red hue are classified as rubies, while all other colors within the corundum family are recognized as sapphires. Interestingly, the very chemical composition that gives rubies their vibrant color also makes them prone to fracturing or breaking before reaching exceptionally large, mineable sizes.
The most exquisite rubies in the world historically originate from Myanmar/Burma and are famously known as "Pigeon's Blood Rubies" due to their uniquely deep red color and intense fluorescence. While Myanmar remains a significant source, ruby deposits can also be found in Vietnam, Thailand, India, parts of the Middle East, Africa, and even within the United States. Renowned for its durability, ruby measures a formidable 9 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, surpassed only by the diamond. This exceptional hardness, combined with its brilliant red color and inherent glow, means that rubies are not limited to the world of jewelry. They are also utilized in specialized applications such as medical instruments and lasers, and play a crucial role in the intricate mechanisms of watchmaking.
Throughout history, rubies have been celebrated as gemstones of immense value and significance across numerous cultures and societies. They are frequently associated with powerful emotions such as love and passion, as well as embodying protection and wealth. Rubies have long adorned the regalia of European royalty and the elite upper class. Some early cultures, captivated by the stone's vibrant red, believed it possessed the very power of life, associating it directly with blood. Others attributed to it the ability to remedy bleeding and inflammation, while also having the power to increase body temperature. Evidence suggests that ruby was a valuable trade commodity as early as 200 BCE along the ancient Chinese Northern Silk Road.
In modern traditions, rubies are the cherished gifts for 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, symbolizing enduring love and commitment. Their inherent durability and strong association with feelings of love and passion have also led to their increasing popularity as a stunning and meaningful centerpiece in engagement rings and bridal jewelry. Caring for your ruby jewelry is straightforward: simply cleanse it with warm and soapy water using a soft-bristled brush or a microfiber cloth. To prevent accidental scratches, it's advisable to store your ruby pieces separately from both softer gemstones and the harder diamond jewelry in your collection.
Discover the Regal Radiance of Ruby:
Shop CLT Jewels today for an exceptional selection of antique and vintage estate jewelry. We also invite you to visit Malak Jewelers to explore our breathtaking collection of ruby jewelry, alongside other exquisite gemstones, dazzling diamond engagement rings and wedding bands, luxurious 22k gold pieces, and a wide array of fine jewelry including rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants, and bracelets. Find us conveniently located in South Charlotte, North Carolina, at The Arboretum Shopping Center, at the corner of Providence Road and Pineville-Matthews / Highway 51. Our doors are open Monday through Saturday, from 10 am to 6 pm. Experience the timeless allure and fiery beauty of the King of Gemstones!