Rubies are pinkish red to blood-red colored gemstone, a variety of the mineral corundum (aluminum oxide). Ruby is one of the most popular traditional jewelry gems and is very durable. Other varieties of gem-quality corundum are called sapphires. Ruby is one of the traditional cardinal gems, alongside amethyst, sapphire, emerald, and diamond. The word ruby comes from ruber, Latin for red. The color of a ruby is due to the element chromium.
History & Lore
The Old Testament of the Bible mentions ruby many times in the Book of Exodus, and many times in the Book of Proverbs, as well as various other times. It is not certain that the Biblical words mean ‘ruby’ as distinct from other jewels. An early recorded transport and trading of rubies arises in the literature on the North Silk Road of China, wherein about 200 BC rubies were carried along this ancient trackway moving westward from China. Rubies have always been held in high esteem in Asian countries. They were used to ornament armor, scabbards, and harnesses of noblemen in India and China. Rubies were laid beneath the foundation of buildings to secure good fortune to the structure. A traditional Hindu astrological belief holds rubies as the “gemstone of the Sun and also the heavenly deity Surya, the leader of the nine heavenly bodies (Navagraha).” The belief is that worshiping and wearing rubies causes the Sun to be favorable to the wearer.
Meaning & Symbolism
The ruby has become a symbol of love and commitment. It was once thought to protect against misfortune and illness. Early cultures treasured the gem, believing that it held the power of life due to its color association with blood. It has also been thought to remedy bleeding and inflammation, and increase body warmth.
Origins & Location
Burma (Myanmar) produces the majority of the world’s rubies, and the finest in the world as well. It has been a significant source since around 600 A.D. Other locations around the world that produce rubies include Sri Lanka, Thailand, Mozambique, and to a small extent, the United States.
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