The Symbolism of Ruby Engagement Rings
Jan 04,2025 | Juyoyo
In ancient legends, rubies are regarded as the patron saint of love. Its deep red color, like a pulsating flame, symbolizes passion, love, and eternity. When a couple chooses a ruby as the gemstone for their engagement ring, the ruby ring carries more and more profound meaning. A ruby engagement ring is not only a piece of jewelry but also a vow of love, a promise of eternity. Come and find out more about the symbolic meaning of the ruby stone in this article!
What are Rubies?
Ruby is one of the precious stones, along with diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds. It is known for its striking deep red color, primarily due to the presence of chromium. It belongs to a variety of the mineral corundum (aluminum oxide). Rubies are exceptionally durable with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. What's more, valued for their beauty and rarity, rubies symbolize love, passion, and power, and are often associated with royalty and protection, making them ideal for jewelry, including engagement rings.
Origin & History of Ruby
The origin and history of rubies are rich and fascinating, spanning centuries and cultures. The earliest known references to rubies date back to ancient civilizations in Asia, particularly in Burma (now Myanmar), where there is evidence of ruby mining activity as early as 2500 BC. During the Middle Ages, rubies became popular with European royalty. They were seen as symbols of love and passion and were often set in crowns and royal regalia.
Rubies have been traded and coveted throughout history. The Silk Road facilitated the trade of rubies between Asia and Europe, increasing their popularity. The gemstone was highly sought after, resulting in its presence in various royal collections.
Today, rubies are celebrated not only for their beauty but also for their symbolism. They are also given as gifts on occasions such as anniversaries, especially the 15th and 40th, or birthdays in July. They represent enduring love and passion.
Where are Rubies Found?
Rubies can be found in several key geographic regions, including Myanmar (Burma), Mozambique, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Africa, and so on. These regions have different geological conditions that contribute to the unique characteristics of the rubies they produce.
Physical & Metaphysical Properties of Ruby
Physical Properties
Property | Description |
Chemical Composition | Aluminum oxide (Al2O3) with chromium impurities |
Color | Primarily deep red; can also exhibit pinkish hues or purplish tones |
Hardness | 9 on the Mohs scale |
Refractive Index | 1.762 - 1.770 |
Specific Gravity | 3.97 - 4.05 |
Luster | Vitreous (glassy) |
Transparency | Transparent to opaque |
Pleochroism | Exhibits different colors when viewed from different angles |
Metaphysical Properties
Property | Description |
Chakra | Root Chakra and Heart Chakra |
Planet | Sun |
Element | Fire |
Zodiac Sign | Aries, Leo, Sagittarius |
Energy | Associated with vitality, courage, and emotional strength |
Symbolism | Passion, love, courage, energy |
The Meaning & Symbolism of Ruby Engagement Rings
Love and Passion
A ruby engagement ring symbolizes the burning emotions and deep commitment between partners. The vibrant red color of a ruby is universally associated with passion, love, and romance. Its rich red hue often represents the heart and the emotions that come with love.
Romantic Commitment
In many cultures, rubies are considered the stone of love and commitment. Their use in engagement rings has grown over time, with couples choosing rubies to signify their intention to cherish each other. Presenting a ruby engagement ring can be seen as a ceremonial gesture, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership of love and devotion.
Power and Royalty
Throughout history, rubies have been worn by royalty and nobility as a symbol of power, wealth, and status. Its vibrant red color was often seen as representing the blood of life and victory, making it a fitting choice for royalty. Choosing a ruby engagement ring can convey a sense of strength and enduring love.
Strength and Courage
With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, rubies are among the hardest gemstones, second only to diamonds. As such, a ruby engagement ring symbolizes the strength of the relationship. Rubies are also believed to bring courage to the wearer. This resilience reflects love's ability to endure and overcome life's challenges.
Protection and Talisman
Rubies are believed to protect the wearer from misfortune and negative energies in various cultures. Cleopatra considered rubies to be her talisman. This protective quality extends to the relationship itself, promoting harmony and positivity. The idea that a ruby can protect love adds to its value as an engagement ring. It represents a shield against external challenges.
Wealth and Prosperity
Treasured by royalty and used in crowns and jewelry, rubies symbolize wealth and luxury. The association with wealth extends to emotional richness, suggesting a future filled with joy, abundance, and shared experiences. The gift of a ruby engagement ring can signify a wish for a prosperous future together.
Rarity and Value
Rubies are considered precious gems. The most sought-after rubies have a vivid red color, often referred to as "pigeon blood". This particular hue is rare, which further increases its value. As consumers become more aware of alternative gemstones, the demand for rubies has skyrocketed. Their associations with love and passion make them a popular choice for engagement rings.
July Birthstone
For those born in July, ruby holds a special place in the wearer's life. A ruby engagement ring becomes not only a symbol of love between partners but also a connection to their personal history and identity, linking their birth month to their love story.
How to Choose a Ruby Engagement Ring?
Choosing a high ruby engagement ring is a meaningful and exciting process. Here are some important tips to help you make the right choice:
1. Follow the 4Cs of Ruby
- Color: Look for a vibrant red hue. The finest rubies are often described as "pigeon blood red," a vibrant red with a slight bluish tinge. Avoid stones that appear dark or brownish.
- Clarity: Rubies often have inclusions (internal flaws) that can detract from their beauty and value. Look for stones with minimal visible inclusions.
- Cut: The cut affects how the ruby reflects light. A well-cut ruby will have brilliance and sparkle. Common cuts include oval, round, emerald, and pear.
- Carat weight: Larger rubies are more rare and more valuable. Determine the size that fits your partner's preferences and your budget.
2. Consider Setting & Style
- Metal choice: Common metals for settings include sterling silver, white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum. When choosing a metal, consider your wife's style and skin tone.
Related article: What Color Jewelry Should I Wear Based on Skin Tone?
- Setting style: Choose a ring style that complements the ruby. Setting styles include: Solitaire, Cluster, Vintage-inspired, and Nature-inspired. Each style creates a unique and romantic look.
3. Set a Budget
- Determine the cost: Ruby prices can vary significantly based on the 4Cs and setting style. Set a realistic budget before you start shopping.
- Focus on quality: Invest in the best quality you can afford. A quality ruby will not only be beautiful but will also hold its value over time.
4. Consider Customization
- Custom designs: If you want something truly unique, consider customizing a one-of-a-kind ruby ring. This allows you to create a piece that perfectly matches your partner's style and preferences.
How Much Does a Ruby Cost?
The value of a ruby can vary significantly based on several factors, including color, clarity, cut, carat weight, size, treatment, and origin. Here's a general idea of how rubies are priced:
- Lower-grade rubies: Smaller, less vibrant rubies can cost as little as $100 to $300 per carat.
- Mid-Range rubies: Good quality rubies (vivid color, decent clarity) typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 per carat.
- High-quality rubies: Exceptional rubies, especially those with rich color and high clarity, can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more per carat.
- Top Quality rubies: Rare, top-quality rubies from prestigious sources (such as Myanmar) can fetch more than $20,000 per carat, especially at auction.
How to Tell if a Ruby is Real?
- Visual Inspection: Genuine rubies have a deep, rich red color. The color should be consistent throughout the stone. If the stone appears too bright, uneven, or fluorescent, it may be lab-grown.
- Hardness Test: Rubies are very hard, scoring 9 on the Mohs hardness scale. They should not scratch easily. You can scratch a material like glass with a real ruby. If it scratches easily, it may not be a real ruby.
- Fluorescence Test: Genuine rubies can show fluorescence under ultraviolet light, while lab-grown rubies may show little or no fluorescence under UV light.
- Professional Appraisal: If you're unsure, consider having the stone appraised by a certified gemologist who can make a definitive identification.
Related Article: How to Identify a Lab-Created Ruby: A Comprehensive Guide
Conclusion
A ruby engagement ring that carries the warmth and eternity of love. Juyoyo Jewelry is ingenious, condensing this deep feeling in each gemstone ring. Each ruby has been rigorously selected for the purest color and the most dazzling light. Action is better than heart, let Juyoyo's ruby engagement ring crown your love.