Ruby

There is something innately regal about rubies. The rich red color of this beautiful gemstone has for centuries, besotted humans. Quite rightly called 'Ratnaraj' or the king of gems in Sanskrit, rubies always stand out for their splendor. The basic and most discernible characteristic of ruby is its color and that is exactly where this resplendent gemstone gets its name from. The word 'Ruber' in Latin means red, that give rubies their name.

In earlier times rubies were considered more valuable than even diamonds and till date they remain one of the most sought after gemstones. Rubies have always remained the favored stone of emperors and rulers across the world. There is hardly any royalty who have not adorned the immaculate ruby. It is said that the crown of Prince Charles IV of Luxembourg bore a ruby that weighed a significant 250 carats. It is also believed that the Emperor of China used rubies to light up his room. Hebrews believed health, prosperity and joy could be conquered by carving a dragon on a ruby.

Soldiers in ancient Burma injected rubies into their skin that they believed would save them from fatal wounds in the battlefields. Rubies are also said to induce fertility. A common belief mentions rubies to be the drop of blood that comes right from the heart of Mother Earth.

Color is the most important determining fact about rubies and happens to be the primary consideration while evaluating the quality of rubies. The most desired variety in rubies is those that have a clear and vibrant red color. Like most gemstones rubies come accompanied with inclusions. Though clarity does play a role in determining the quality of rubies, it may well be said that color is by far the most basic consideration. However, the preference of color in rubies, like all other gemstones depend on one's personal liking for a particular shade or hue. Since rubies mostly come in small sizes, their bigger counterparts are extremely valued.

The lustrous red color in a ruby is acquired after the stone undergoes heat treatment. It is only after rubies undergo heat treatment that they evolve into such breathtakingly beautiful stones. Being a permanent form of treatment, it keeps the color in a ruby intact for years to come. Another form of treatment used for rubies is Diffusion where, with the help of chemicals and by exposing the surface to heat, the desired color is acquired. Apart from star rubies, his form of treatment is not recommended for rubies and heat treatment is preferred.

The most famous and sought after rubies originate from Myanmar in Burma which are exceptional in beauty and look. While Sri Lanka, Thailand, Kenya and Tanzania have ruby producing potential, other sources of this stone happen to be Pakistan, Nepal, India and Afghanistan.

The color red in itself evokes feelings that are strong and deep and rubies are a true reflection of this very fact. Denoting the essence of life and love, rubies make wonderful jewelry pieces. These radiant gemstones are especially considered highly romantic as gifts. Rubies make exquisite pieces of jewelry, whether ruby rings, ruby earrings or ruby pendants. While more elaborate pieces with diamonds thrown in make great accessories for special evenings and red carpets, more subtle ruby jewelry proves to be ideal for everyday wear by adding a splash of color to any outfit.

Red, regal and infinitely beautiful, rubies have continued to be a favorite gemstone through the centuries and continue their rich and royal legacy till date.