For centuries, rubies have captivated humanity with their fiery glow and enduring beauty. More than just a gemstone, rubies are imbued with symbolism and rich history, making them a fascinating subject to explore.

A History Fit for a King
The word “ruby” comes from the Latin “rubens,” meaning red. Evidence suggests that rubies were prized possessions as early as 2300 BC, found in engravings and ancient texts. These fiery gems were particularly favored in Asian cultures, where they were believed to symbolize power and protection. In India, rubies were associated with the god Krishna, while in China, they were seen as a representation of good fortune and nobility.

Rubies adorned the crowns and jewelry of emperors, maharajas, and other figures of royalty. One particularly famous ruby is the Timur Ruby, a 361-carat spinel that was mistakenly believed to be a ruby for centuries. This gem has been passed down through the hands of Mughal emperors, Shah Jahan (of Taj Mahal fame), and eventually became part of the British Crown Jewels.

Beyond the Crown: Symbolism and Lore
Rubies have transcended their association with royalty and seeped into various cultures’ folklore and symbolism. Here are some interesting examples:

• Protection: Warriors throughout history wore rubies as talismans, believing they offered protection in battle. This belief is perhaps best reflected in the ruby slippers worn by Dorothy in “The Wizard of Oz,” which were said to grant her protection from harm.
• Love and Passion: The vibrant red color of rubies has long been associated with love and passion. This makes rubies a popular choice for engagement rings and anniversary gifts, especially for 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries.
• Wisdom and Prosperity: The Bible mentions rubies several times, often linking them to wisdom and beauty. In some cultures, rubies were believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to the owner.

Fiery Beauty: The Science Behind the Sparkle
Rubies belong to the corundum mineral family, the same family as sapphires. What differentiates a ruby from a sapphire is the presence of chromium, which gives rubies their characteristic red hue. The trace amounts of chromium can range from a subtle pink to a deep, vibrant red, with the most prized rubies having a rich, slightly bluish-red color, often referred to as “pigeon’s blood.”

Rubies are known for their exceptional hardness, ranking a 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This makes them incredibly durable gemstones, second only to diamonds. This hardness, coupled with their fiery beauty, makes rubies a popular choice for jewelry that can be enjoyed for generations.

Interesting Ruby Facts

• Fluorescence: Rubies can exhibit a phenomenon called fluorescence, where they emit a red glow when exposed to ultraviolet light.
• Value: Due to their rarity and exceptional quality, some rubies can be even more valuable than diamonds of comparable size.
• The Largest Ruby: The largest known ruby is the “Rajaratna,” a 4,350-carat cabochon ruby discovered in Sri Lanka. (A cabochon is a gemstone that is cut and polished, but not faceted.)
• Star Rubies: Some rubies exhibit a star-like phenomenon called asterism, caused by needle-like inclusions of the mineral rutile. These are known as star rubies and are highly prized for their unique appearance.

Gem Gallerie and Rubies in Sherwood Park

Why Choose Rubies from Gem Gallerie?

• Local Expertise: Established in 1984, Gem Gallerie is the longest-standing independent jewelry store in Sherwood Park. Our deep-rooted presence in the community ensures that we understand the tastes and preferences of our local clientele.
• Personalized Service: Our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized service, helping you find the perfect piece of ruby jewelry that matches your style and budget.
• Quality Assurance: As certified gemologists, we guarantee the authenticity and quality of our rubies. Each piece is carefully inspected to ensure it meets our rigorous standards.

Rubies are more than just a beautiful gemstone; they are a testament to our enduring fascination with beauty, power, and passion. At Gem Gallerie in Sherwood Park, Alberta, we pride ourselves on offering a stunning selection of ruby jewelry. Whether you’re looking for a dazzling engagement ring, a timeless necklace, or a statement bracelet, our collection has something for every taste. So next time you see a ruby sparkling in a piece of jewelry, remember the rich history and symbolism it carries within its fiery depths. Visit us at Gem Gallerie to find your perfect ruby treasure today.