Ruby
Al2O3+(Cr)
Physical Characteristics
Ruby is the most valuable variety of the corundum mineral species, which also includes sapphire. Rubies can command the highest per-carat price of any colored stone. This makes ruby one of the most important gems in the colored stone market.
In its purest form, the mineral corundum is colorless. Trace elements that become part of the mineral’s crystal structure cause variations in its color. Chromium is the trace element that causes ruby’s red, which ranges from an orangy red to a purplish red.
The strength of ruby’s red depends on how much chromium is present—the more chromium, the stronger the red color. Chromium can also cause fluorescence, which adds to the intensity of the red color.
The most renowned rubies, like those from Myanmar, the Himalayas, and northern Vietnam, typically form in marble. They’re found in layers that are distributed irregularly within the surrounding marble. Marble forms as part of the metamorphic (rock-altering) process, when heat and pressure from mountain formation act on existing limestone deposits.
In addition, rubies found in marble typically fluoresce red under ultraviolet light—even the ultraviolet light in sunlight. Fluorescence can make a ruby’s color even more intense and increase its value.
In other locations, rubies can be found in basalt rocks. Rubies from these sources can have higher iron content, which can make the rubies darker and less intense in color. Higher iron content in the chemical makeup of a ruby can also mask the red fluorescence, eliminating that extra glow of red color seen in marble-hosted rubies.
Supporting Gemstone for the Color Red
- Vitality and Energy: Rubies are often associated with vitality, energy, and life force. They are believed to stimulate the root chakra, promoting physical strength, vitality, and stamina. Rubies are thought to invigorate the body and enhance overall well-being.
- Passion and Love: Rubies symbolize passion, love, and romantic desire. They are considered a powerful talisman for attracting love, fostering passion, and deepening emotional connections between partners. Rubies are believed to kindle the flames of passion and reignite the spark in relationships.
- Protection and Courage: Rubies have long been regarded as talismans of protection and courage. They are believed to shield against negative energies, psychic attacks, and harm from malevolent forces. Rubies are thought to imbue the wearer with courage, strength, and resilience in the face of adversity.
- Prosperity and Abundance: Rubies are associated with prosperity, abundance, and success. They are believed to attract wealth, prosperity, and opportunities for financial growth and advancement. Rubies are considered a symbol of good fortune and are often worn or carried as a talisman for attracting abundance.
- Spiritual Awakening: Rubies are said to stimulate spiritual awakening and enlightenment. They are believed to activate the crown chakra, facilitating spiritual insights, wisdom, and higher consciousness. Rubies are thought to enhance intuition, psychic abilities, and spiritual clarity.
- Emotional Healing: Rubies are believed to possess powerful healing properties for the emotional body. They are said to help release negative emotions, heal past traumas, and restore emotional balance and harmony. Rubies are thought to promote self-love, compassion, and forgiveness.
- Vitality and Longevity: Rubies are associated with vitality, longevity, and youthfulness. They are believed to support overall health and well-being, boost the immune system, and promote longevity. Rubies are considered a symbol of eternal youth and vitality.
- Balance and Harmony: Rubies are said to balance and harmonize the energy centers of the body, known as the chakras. They are believed to align the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of the self, fostering inner harmony, balance, and alignment.
