July | Ruby

The history of Rubies

The name “ruby” derives from the Latin word rubeus, meaning red. In ancient India rubies were a symbol or power and youthful energy used in jewellery, in ancient Sanskrit, ruby translated to ratnaraj, which meant “king of precious stones.” Rubies have long been associated with the life force of blood, and believed to predict misfortune or danger and cure inflammatory diseases. Warriors in Burma believed wearing rubies made them invincible in battle while medieval Europeans adorned themselves in rubies to bestow health, wisdom, wealth and love.Rubies range from a vibrant, deep red to a purple hue - the depth of the red colour is caused by a trace element called Chromium which also causes its fluorescence, adding to the intensity of the colour and giving the stone a lit from within, fiery glow.

Where are Rubies from?

Rubies can be found all over the world, but the finest are mined in Myanmar (Burmese rubies) which are highly sought after. The precious gemstones also naturally occur in Afghanistan, Australia, Cambodia, India, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, the United States, and Vietnam.

The properties of Ruby

Ruby is one of the most valued gemstones and is associated with love and passion. The vibrant gemstone is thought to represent the base or root chakra and the heart chakra.