Endlessly versatile, boldly radiant, and long believed to be symbolic of passion, protection, and prosperity, rubies remain a coveted gem whose popularity goes well beyond its reputation as July's birthstone. Rubies have been the gemstone of choice for royalty ever since their appearance along China's North Silk Road as early as 200 BC and captivated jewelry lovers ever since.
Whether you are an avid collector or a newcomer to the world of precious gems, understanding the nuances of the world’s most highly-valued colored gemstone can enrich your experience and investment. The journey to acquire antique or vintage ruby jewelry can be a delightful adventure steeped in history, symbolism, and timeless beauty – that is, if you’re in conversation with a reputable and knowledgeable source who can answer your questions…
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Art Deco Platinum Ruby and Diamond Ring
Are rubies always red?
What gives ruby its iconic color? Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, the same family that sapphires belong to. Rubies and sapphires are both among the most cherished gemstones. While they share a common mineral composition, their differences lie in their color and the trace elements responsible for their hue.
All rubies have a red color thanks to the presence of chromium which is often fluorescent under ultraviolet light. The Gemological Institute of America’s modern standards exclude “pink rubies”, though it's worth noting that historical and international references to pink rubies still exist.
Although they are most well known for their deep blue variety, sapphires can come in a rainbow of colors – including pink – thanks to their trace elements. Both rubies and sapphires offer fantastic hardness making them a wonderful choice for engagement rings and other everyday pieces.
18K Rose Gold Ruby and Diamond Ring
What are the different types of rubies and where are they from?
Rubies are sourced from various regions around the world, each contributing unique characteristics to the gemstones thanks to their geological conditions. The majority of rubies, especially high-quality stones, come from the continent of Asia though they can be found in Africa and the Americas as well.
The most prized variety of rubies are commonly referred to as “pigeon blood” which is characterized by a vivid red with just a hint of blue. These rubies most often come from Myanmar – listed as Burmese rubies when viewing antique or vintage jewelry – which is known for producing many of history’s finest rubies.
Thai rubies are well regarded for their strong fluorescence though they typically exhibit darker undertones than other varieties. Sri Lanka (formerly Ceylon) is also notable for its rich history of ruby and sapphire deposits which are remarkable in their clarity and offer a softer color intensity.
Platinum Diamond and Ruby Ring
What are common celebration and gifting traditions associated with rubies?
Throughout history, rubies have been associated with various celebrations and gifting traditions, making them a timeless choice for any special occasion – though a few particular gifting traditions are very popular for rubies.
As the official birthstone for July, rubies are especially great gifts for those with a July birthday or whose loved ones are born in the month (such as a piece of Mother’s jewelry). The practice of wearing one’s birthstone for protection and prosperity has its roots in ancient civilizations, but it was popularized in Victorian jewelry after Tiffany & Co. published a poem detailing 12 months of birthstones and their supposed metaphysical properties; it reads in part:
The glowing ruby shall adorn,
Those who in July are born;
Then they’ll be exempt and free
From love’s doubts and anxiety.
Rubies are also the traditional gift for a 40th wedding anniversary, though we happen to think they’re the perfect way to celebrate any year. Their vivid red color has evoked a sense of love and passion for centuries, adding to their romantic allure.
What is the meaning or significance of rubies? What have rubies symbolized throughout history?
From Bible verses to Taylor Swift lyrics, rubies have long been noted for their symbolic significance and captivated humanity for thousands of years. Their meaning has evolved across different cultures and historical periods, reflecting their enduring allure and importance.
In ancient India, rubies were known as "ratnaraj," or "king of the gemstones." Often believed to be associated with divine favor, rubies were believed to possess a magical glow that protected warriors in battle and brought peace to their owners. For those with wealth to possess them, rubies were worn as talismans to protect against evil and bring good health.
In the Renaissance, rubies were associated with power and wealth. European royalty and nobility adorned themselves with rubies to signify their status and authority – a tradition that has evolved over the centuries but continues to this day.
As rubies became more commercially available to the masses throughout the Victorian and Art Deco periods, they’ve been regarded as a symbol of love, passion, and deep commitment. For this reason, they have often served as love tokens and romantic occasions.
Edwardian Platinum Ruby and Diamond Ring
How should you clean and care for your ruby jewelry? Are there any special care instructions for antique ruby jewelry?
Thanks to their remarkable hardness, rubies can be relatively easy to maintain compared to other colored gemstones. However, antique ruby jewelry requires particular attention to preserve its historical value and intricate craftsmanship.
Warm water, mild soap, and a soft bristled toothbrush are safe cleaners for ruby jewelry. Take care to rinse jewelry thoroughly and pat dry with a soft, lint-free cloth being mindful to cover drains and other crevices as you do.
Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, especially when dealing with antique jewelry. For deep cleanings and regular maintenance, consider taking your antique ruby jewelry to a professional jeweler with the expertise and tools to safely clean your pieces while inspecting the setting checking for loose stones and other signs of damage.
Don’t wear your jewelry in water or harsh conditions and store your pieces in a fabric-lined jewelry box. Proper care not only enhances the beauty of your rubies but also preserves the rich history and craftsmanship embedded in each piece.
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At Walton’s Jewelry, we have more than 50 years of experience serving Historic Downtown Franklin and the greater Nashville community. Each member of our team has trained at The Gemological Institute of America and has a deep passion for preserving the history and beauty of antique jewelry. Whether you are a Tennessee local looking to stop by our showroom, or prefer to view our selection virtually, we invite you to explore our newest arrivals and reach out with any questions you may have.
