History: Rubies have been mined and worn for thousands of years, with ancient civilizations like the Burmese, Sri Lankans, and Indians prizing them for their beauty and spiritual significance.
Color: Ruby's color range includes pinkish-red, purplish-red, and deep red, with the most valuable being the vibrant, saturated red known as "pigeon's blood".
Hardness: Ruby's hardness (9 on the Mohs scale) makes it an excellent choice for jewelry that will be worn frequently.
Sources: Rubies are mined in various parts of the world, including Myanmar (formerly Burma), Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, and Mozambique.
Treatment: Some rubies may undergo heat treatment or other enhancements to improve their color and clarity.
Price: Ruby prices vary greatly depending on factors like carat weight, color, clarity, cut, and provenance.
Metaphysical properties: Ruby is believed to promote emotional balance, courage, and passion, and is often used in crystal healing and meditation practices.
Care: Ruby jewelry should be cleaned regularly and stored separately to avoid scratching or damage.
Symbolism: Ruby is often associated with love, passion, and commitment, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and anniversary gifts.
Rarity: Large, high-quality rubies are rare, which contributes to their value and desirability.