Gems and rubies have always been an attraction to people as accessories to value. Through the eras they shine and have influenced jewellery lovers, collectors and even royalties around the world. So it is in this article as we delve deeper into the world of gems and try to put the spotlight on rubies.
What are Gems?
The gems and rubies are minerals, stones and organic materials that are systematically cultivated and fashioned for use in personal adornments. Such stones have been revered as beautiful, rare, and tough for a long time. These can be diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, and of course, there are rubies on the list.
It should be noted that gems evolved in connection with different cultures and have always been a sign of richness, authority, and even shield. Given such an origin coupled with the usually mesmerizing appearance, the stones have been used in religious artifacts, crowns and other regalia.
Understanding Rubies: The “King of Gems”
Of all the gemstones existing in this world, ruby is quite special because of the red hue and its past. Rubies are classified as members of the corundum species or more accurately a mineral composed of aluminum oxide. What we know about rubies is that the inside of the stone is filled with corundum, and that is what gives the gemstone its red coloration, or what is called the ‘chrome-red hue’ though the quantity for chrome is only as small as a trace.
Rubies belong to the group of four ‘precious’ gemstones, the other being diamonds, emerald and sapphires. They are regarded as largely more precious than the other three groups as the perfect ruby is so rare and in such high demand.
The Origins of Rubies
Rubies are mainly found in the countries where gem mining has been in existence. Most ruby producing countries are: Myanmar or Burma, Thailand, Sri Lanka and recently Mozambique. Specifically, Burmese rubies have gained a status of fine gems characterized by outstanding color. But rubies are also found in Afghanistan, Tanzania and Cambodia etc.
It is amazing that people have been attracted to rubies for thousands of years. For millennia, rubies were used as symbols of love: Ancient Greeks and Romans wore rubies to emphasize passion; Chinese believed that rubies would help to intensify love. Moreover, most cultures associated ruby with special powers; for instance, as a stone that gives strength, protection in warfare, etc.
How Are Rubies Formed?
Gems and Rubies are found below the earth in settings that organize structures under recognizable formalities. They are originally formed as mineral bodies, and subsequently are subjected to variable degrees of heat and pressure in millions of years. Under this range of temperature aluminum and oxygen combine and form corundum. When small traces of chromium are incorporated into the mix, these produce the red color that effectively defines a ruby.
The formation of rubies does not occur only in one of the parts of the Earth as it is with diamonds. In fact, rubies can be found in other geological structures but the conditions necessary for the process are extraordinary. This scarcity is one of the reasons that make ruby to be valued so much.
The Value of Rubies
Rubies’ price depends on their Colour, Size, Clarity and the country of origin of this precious stone. Fine rubies are those that are red and have no seam or any white or black speck on them. Generally, it can be seen that when the size of the ruby is big, the cost of the ruby is also high. But it is not only the size that defines everything: the quality of the material taken and the saturation of the red color carried by it directly affect the price.
Myanmar rubies are especially valued because of their higher clarity and exceptional color and rarity of occurrences. These rubies are usually more expensive compared to other regions in the world. Besides, as any inclusions deteriorate the quality of the gemstone, rubies that have pure deep intense color are rarest and they are among the most costly gemstones in the world.
Rubies in History and Culture
They have been symbols of wealth, power and love since time immemorial. During the medieval period, the rubies were thought to ward off evil and all sorts of harm. In some cultures it was even believed that they could heal diseases or bring them a lot of fortune.
Barone’s have also been attached to royal jewelries with one of the most common being the ruby. Kings and queens have used ruby to give them an indication of the power they hold since time in history. Bi bi “Star of India,” a 563 carat sapphire and the “Black Prince’s Ruby,” a large ruby set in the British Imperial State Crown are two examples of royal ruby treasures.
Conclusion
These large groups of gems and rubies are unique. These are one of the most popular gemstones due to their glamorous history, bright color and high level of density. For those who would love something timeless for an engagement ring, a necklace or just an amassed collection of valuable stones, rubies will remain an allure.