In the world of gemstones, few rival the allure and romance of rubies. Revered for centuries, rubies have adorned the crowns of kings and queens, symbolized love and passion, and captivated the hearts of jewelry enthusiasts worldwide. In this blog post, we'll delve into the fascinating world of ruby jewelry, exploring the history, symbolism, and allure of these fiery gemstones.
The History of Rubies
Rubies have a storied history dating back over two thousand years. They have been coveted and revered by cultures across the globe. Ancient Hindus referred to them as "ratnaraj," meaning "king of precious stones," while in ancient Burma (now Myanmar), the Burmese believed that rubies would grant invincibility in battle.
The color red has always held a special significance in many cultures, symbolizing love, passion, and courage. Rubies, with their rich red hue, have naturally become associated with these emotions and virtues. Their rarity and beauty have made them a symbol of wealth and power throughout history.
The Allure of Ruby Jewelry
1. **Exquisite Color**: The vibrant red color of rubies is their defining feature. Known as "pigeon's blood red," the most prized rubies exhibit a deep, pure red hue with hints of blue. This remarkable color makes rubies highly desirable for jewelry, as they add a touch of elegance and passion to any piece.
2. **Durability**: Rubies are part of the corundum family of gemstones, which includes sapphires. Corundum is one of the hardest minerals on Earth, second only to diamonds. This exceptional hardness makes rubies suitable for everyday wear, ensuring that they withstand the test of time.
3. **Versatility**: Ruby jewelry comes in a wide range of styles and settings. Whether you prefer a classic ruby engagement ring, a vintage ruby pendant, or a modern ruby and diamond bracelet, there are endless options to suit your taste.
4. **Symbolism**: Rubies are often associated with love and passion. They make meaningful gifts for anniversaries, birthdays, or any special occasion, symbolizing enduring love and affection.
5. **Astrological Significance**: Rubies are the birthstone for those born in July. In astrology, wearing a ruby is believed to enhance one's vitality, courage, and self-confidence.
Notable Ruby Jewelry Pieces
1. **The Burmese Ruby Tiara**: Owned by Queen Elizabeth II, this tiara features rubies from Myanmar and diamonds set in a stunning design. It's a testament to the timeless beauty of ruby jewelry.
2. **The Sunrise Ruby**: This exceptional ruby, known as "the world's most expensive ruby," sold for a record-breaking price at auction. It showcases the mesmerizing quality and value that rubies can possess.
3. **The Ruby Slippers**: Iconic from "The Wizard of Oz," Dorothy's ruby slippers enchanted audiences and continue to be a symbol of cinematic history.
Ruby jewelry, with its timeless beauty, rich history, and passionate symbolism, holds a special place in the world of gemstones. Whether you're drawn to the fiery allure of a ruby engagement ring or simply appreciate the elegance of ruby earrings, these exquisite gemstones have a unique ability to capture hearts and ignite passion. Embrace the allure of rubies and let them adorn your life with elegance and glamour.
Ruby Jewelry: A Passionate Affair with Elegance and Glamour
