Sunday’s Gem — Ruby

Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better. ~Albert Einstein

One of four “precious” gemstones (the others being Diamond, Sapphire, and Emerald), Ruby is red Corundum, an aluminum oxide mineral with chromium responsible for its rich, red color.

Considered by many to be the most powerful gemstone in the universe, Ruby ranges from an orangey-red to a purplish or brownish red. The most prized color is “pigeon’s blood,” pure red with a hint of blue.

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Unheated rubies from Mozambique; photo from http://www.gemstoneuniverse.com

Ruby is a 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness (1-10), surpassed only by Diamond. Its name comes from the Latin rubeus, or red. The finest stones seem to come from Burma, though Thailand, Ceylon, Pakistan, and other countries also are sources.

A stone of nobility, Ruby has long been a talisman of passion, protection, and prosperity. Ancient Hindu peoples believed that casting Ruby into water would cause it to boil; long ago Greeks claimed pressing it into wax would melt the wax. The Chinese Emperor Kublai Khan is reported to have offered a city in exchange for a large Ruby.

Ruby is thought to be the fourth gemstone in the breastplate of the Hebrew High Priest. From olden times through the Middle Ages, Ruby served as an amulet to ward off plague, banish sadness and foolish thoughts, and bring its wearer peace. Even today, legend holds that as long as you have a bit of Ruby, you’ll never be poor.

Ruby is the traditional birthstone for those born in July. It’s a traditional gift for the 15th or 40th wedding anniversary, and it makes a beautiful Valentine’s Day present!

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Isn’t this a lovely specimen? Thanks to the Gemological Institute of America Inc. for this photo.

Metaphysical healers say Ruby can heal or balance the Base Chakra, located at the base of the spine. When this area is in balance, one regains physical strength and stamina and has a rekindled sense of security and self-power.

Feng Shui experts say Ruby is fire energy, Yang in nature, associated with the south area of a home or office.

While not usually a meditation stone because of its invigorating properties, Ruby is beautiful in jewelry. Wear it in a ring on your left hand, or as earrings or a pendant. Keep your Ruby separated from softer gemstones or they might be scratched.

Note: The claims here aren’t meant to take the place of medical advice. They’re based on folklore and other sources, and likely “work” best if one’s belief is strong enough!