Ruby: The King of Gemstones
Ruby, a member of the corundum family, is celebrated for its rich crimson hue, ranging from orangish-red to purplish-red. Known as “Ratnaraj” in Sanskrit, meaning “King of Gems,” ruby symbolizes love, passion, and power. With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, it is one of the most durable gemstones, second only to diamonds, and is cherished for its unmatched brilliance and rarity.
Ruby – The Gemstone of Love and Passion
Ruby has been revered for centuries as a symbol of vitality, courage, and deep emotions. Its vivid red tones represent the intensity of love, making it a popular choice for meaningful and luxurious jewelry.
Healing Properties and Benefits
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Emotional Healing:
- Amplifies love, passion, and courage.
- Promotes emotional balance, healing emotional wounds and fostering inner strength.
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Physical Vitality:
- Stimulates the heart chakra, enhancing energy, vitality, and overall physical strength.
- Helps overcome lethargy and promotes a renewed sense of vigor.
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Prosperity and Protection:
- Attracts wealth and abundance, historically symbolizing opulence and status.
- Serves as a talisman against negative energies and misfortunes.
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Motivation and Confidence:
- Boosts self-confidence and determination, encouraging a positive outlook on life.
Birthstone and Zodiac Connection
Ruby is the birthstone for July, associated with the Sun and the zodiac sign Leo:
- For Leo: Ruby enhances strength, courage, and leadership qualities.
- Anniversaries: Ruby is the traditional gemstone for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, symbolizing enduring love and commitment.
Grading of Ruby
The quality and value of ruby depend on four key factors:
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Color:
- The finest rubies display a vivid red to deep purplish-red hue, often referred to as “pigeon’s blood red.”
- Stones with overly dark or light tones are less valuable.
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Clarity:
- Natural rubies typically contain inclusions, with fewer inclusions indicating higher value.
- Fine rubies with a “star effect” caused by intersecting needles of rutile inclusions are particularly rare and prized.
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Cut:
- Rubies are typically cut to maximize weight rather than achieve fancy shapes.
- Common cuts include oval, cushion, and step-cut pavilions.
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Carat Weight:
- Larger rubies, especially those with high color and clarity, are exceedingly rare and valuable.
Types of Rubies
- Natural Rubies: Rare and expensive, these are highly sought after for their superior quality and value.
- Synthetic Rubies: Laboratory-created rubies mimic the appearance and properties of natural ones but are more affordable.
Origins and Historical Significance
- Famous Origins: Rubies are mined from renowned locations such as Burma (Myanmar), Mozambique, and Madagascar, with Burmese rubies being the most esteemed for their vibrant color and superior quality.
- Historical Connections:
- In Myanmar, soldiers believed inserting a ruby into their skin made them invincible.
- In India, rubies were offered to Lord Krishna to honor him, symbolizing power and prosperity.
How to Care for Ruby Jewelry
To maintain the beauty and longevity of ruby jewelry:
- Storage: Store rubies separately to prevent scratching other gemstones. Use fabric-lined boxes or wrap them in soft tissue paper.
- Cleaning: Clean rubies with a gentle detergent solution and a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove dirt and oils.
- Avoidance: Protect rubies from excessive pressure, chemicals, and extreme temperatures to maintain their luster.
Why Choose Ashok Jewellers for Your Ruby Needs?
At Ashok Jewellers, we bring you ethically sourced and meticulously graded rubies to ensure the finest quality.
- Exceptional Craftsmanship: Our expert artisans craft ruby jewelry to enhance its natural beauty and brilliance.
- Customization: Choose from a variety of designs, cuts, and settings tailored to your preferences.
- Authenticity: All our rubies come with certifications to guarantee their quality and value.
Experience the timeless allure and vibrant energy of ruby jewelry with Ashok Jewellers, where every gemstone tells a story of passion and elegance.
