Rubies are considered the most precious stones created by God. They have left a significant cultural mark throughout history. Hence, their importance and popularity did not plummet with the birth of modern culture.
These gemstones are found in amulets and talismans across various ancient civilizations. In the Bible proverbs, the term “Ruby” is used to compare wisdom and a woman’s virtue. Throughout history, it has become the most sought-after gem for the upper classes.
Most medieval Europeans adorned themselves with Rubies to guarantee success, wisdom, love, wealth, and health. In Sanskrit, Rubies are referred to as the “king of precious stones.” Are you intrigued? In this blog, we will discuss the symbolism, myths, and things to consider when buying Rubies.
Symbolism of Rubies
Rubies are said to be immensely powerful and have protective properties. That is why they have been used in talismans and amulets throughout history. Moreover, in ancient folklore, gemstones were engraved with the image of the imperial Roman Goddess Venus. It signified a strong connection and power of love.
Other than Venus, Rubies were found with the image of Osiris to signify the cycle of life. You can also find it engraved with Gorgon’s Heads, which wards off evil, and with Mars to signify victory and honor.
During that time, sailors used Ruby gemstone amulets to protect themselves during a voyage. When the Middle Ages arrived, Rubies became a symbol of victory and protection. Moreover, some myths suggest this gemstone would warn its wearer about impending danger.
Rubies are thought to ward off evil, as well. The blood-like appearance of this gemstone encouraged its association with blood. Hence, some cultures believed Rubies could bestow invulnerability. Christians thought of Rubies to be symbolic of divine sacrifice, as it is mentioned several times in the Bible.
What to Look for When Buying Rubies?
If you are interested in buying, you will need a complete Ruby gemstone guide. Ideally, Rubies can have the highest prices in the colored gemstone market. The per-carat price of this rare stone is rising due to its demand. A report states the Ruby jewelry market will grow at a CAGR of 5% by the end of 2028.
Leibish states that rubies are assessed for their value based on the 4C’s, just like diamonds. Therefore, these tips will help you choose the best natural gemstone with a magnificent red color and breathtaking beauty:
- The finest and most natural Ruby will have a vibrant color with a purplish-red hue
- Too much purple or orange in the shade decreases the quality of the Ruby
- High-quality ones have a vivid saturation and will have a balance of color
- Inclusion-free ones are rare and perfect stones can be lab-created Rubies
- Rubies should have clarity in the form of inclusions for them to be valuable
- The value of Rubies is determined by how clear the inclusions are
- This gemstone will lose its value if inclusions reduce transparency
Rubies can have a variety of cuts, but their crystal shapes make the hexagonal cut the most popular. Moreover, some have an elongated shape. Just like diamonds, the price will increase as the carat size goes up.
3 Ancient Myths and Concepts About Rubies
The significance of Rubies is embedded in ancient culture and folklore. Due to these, there have been significant influences on modern usage.
Some ancient myths or concepts about this gemstone include the following:
i) Relationship with Blood
For many years, Rubies have been associated with blood. Burmese soldiers used to wear this precious stone to become invincible and fierce in battle. They believed this myth so much that some had inserted the gemstone under their left hand’s skin.
ii) Relationship with Healing
Older civilizations believed that this gemstone had healing properties. George Fredrick Kunz, a gem expert, wrote that Rubies were thought to have remedy properties for hemorrhages and inflammatory diseases. People still believe that these gemstones are good for your base chakra and can help recharge your energy levels and removes anger.
iii) Relationship with Fire
Hundreds of years ago, Rubies were believed to be made from the fires of heaven. Many cultures thought that if you threw this gemstone into the water, it would boil the liquid. This myth became prevalent because of the flashing red color of the stone.
The Bottom Line
As you can see, Rubies are a king’s jewel as it signifies prosperity and royalty. Earlier, regular people were not allowed to wear or possess this gemstone. However, in modern times, anyone can buy Rubies if they want to.
If you are willing to invest in these gemstones, there are a few things to consider. For example, judge Ruby’s authenticity based on its color and vibrance. Moreover, the inclusions present in the gemstone will determine its value. Ideally, inclusion-free Rubies are either rare or lab-grown.
Rubies are associated with religion, culture, and ancient folklore. For example, Burmese soldiers used to wear Rubies, thinking that it would make them invincible. Either way, this gemstone is said to signify spiritual healing, wealth, and love.
