Coloured Gemstone Jewellery Guide

Rubies are gemstones known for their rich red colour. Ruby belongs to the corundum mineral species, which is one of the hardest minerals on Earth. Corundum has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, making it the second hardest natural substance after diamond, which has a hardness of 10. This high level of hardness means that ruby jewellery is highly resistant to scratches and can withstand daily wear and tear. Rubies are composed primarily of aluminium oxide with the presence of chromium, which gives them their characteristic red hue. The intensity and tone of the red can vary, ranging from pinkish-red to deep, vibrant red. Rubies are one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world. Their beauty and rarity have made them popular throughout history and make stunning jewellery accessories.

Rubies have been prized for their beauty and symbolic meaning for centuries. The word "ruby" comes from the Latin word "ruber," meaning "red." The colour red has long been associated with passion, love, and protection, and rubies are no exception. Here are some of the most common meanings behind rubies:

1. The stone of kings: Ruby jewellery has long been associated with royalty and power. In ancient Egypt, they were worn by the pharaohs as a symbol of their authority. In India, they were associated with the god Krishna, who was said to wear a ruby jewellery on his brow. In Europe, rubies were often given as gifts to kings and queens.
2. The stone of love: The colour red is often associated with love and passion, so it is no surprise that rubies are also seen as a symbol of love. In many cultures, rubies are given as gifts to express love or to celebrate a new relationship.
3. The stone of protection: Rubies are also believed to have protective powers. In ancient times, they were often worn as amulets to ward off evil spirits. Today, some people believe that rubies can protect the wearer from harm and misfortune.
4. The stone of health: Rubies are also said to have healing properties. They are said to promote good health, vitality, and longevity. In some cultures, rubies are used to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, heart disease, and blood disorders.

Whether you believe in their metaphysical properties or not, there is no doubt that rubies are beautiful and fascinating gemstones. Their rich history and symbolism make them a popular choice for jewellery and a cherished possession for many people.

Rubies are mined in a variety of locations around the world. The most important sources of rubies include Myanmar, Mozambique, Tanzania, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. The Mogok Valley in Myanmar is considered to be the most important source of rubies, and it has produced some of the most famous and valuable rubies in history. Other major sources of rubies include the Montepuez district in Mozambique, the Tunduru district in Tanzania, and the Ratnapura district in Sri Lanka. Rubies can also be found in smaller quantities in other countries, such as Afghanistan, Australia, India, Madagascar, and Pakistan.