Everything you need to know about July's birthstone; Ruby
This week on the
Hatton Jewels blog we’re talking about everything Ruby, the birthstone of July!
We love this coloured gem here at Hatton Jewels HQ, so we’re going to be taking
a look at it’s history, discovering some of it’s most popular uses and design choices,
and sharing some of our very own favourite Ruby rings from our boutique shop in
Hatton Garden, so read on and get to know more about one of the most beautiful
gemstones in the world!
The History of Rubies
The name ruby derives
from the word ‘ruber’ which is Latin for red. The first written historical
account of rubies can be traced back to around 200 B.C. It is one of the most
significant gemstones, and has been valued by Kings throughout the ages.
It is one of only
four ‘precious’ gemstones, along with sapphires, emeralds and diamonds, and is
almost identical in nature to sapphires as they are both made from a
crystallised aluminium oxide. A ruby is also the second hardest gemstone in the
world.
What do Rubies
represent?
Rubies represent
love, passion, courage and emotion due to it powerful red colour. The richness
of its colour is determined by how much chromium is in the environment during
the stone’s formation. The most prized shades of this gemstone are known as
pigeon blood red rubies, but they can also vary in lightness to appear pink. If
the shade of pink is below a certain lightness, the stones are then classified
as pink sapphires.
Flawless rubies are
extremely rare. Small amounts of typical rutile inclusions can improve the
colour of the stone by breaking up and scattering the light throughout the
stone.
Where do Rubies come
from?
Rubies have
traditionally been mined in Southeast Asia, especially Thailand, Burma, and
Cambodia and more recently in central and eastern Africa, in Tanzania and
Mozambique. It is common for rubies to be heated to improve colour and remove
impurities. Unheated rubies are the most
scarce and fetch high premiums especially from Burma (Myanmar).
Ruby Wedding
Anniversary
As well as being the
the birthstone for July and the zodiac gemstone for Aries. Rubies are also the
recommended gem for couples celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary and a
great alternative to diamonds for engagement rings.
If you’re interested
in visiting our showroom in the heart of Hatton Garden to see any of our Ruby
jewellery, simply book an appointment online or give us a call on 0203 116 0069
and speak to one of our friendly, expert members of staff who can help guide
you through any type of jewellery purchase.
We’ve helped 1000’s
of customers over the year’s design custom engagement rings, choose the perfect
present for an anniversary, sell unwanted jewellery and choose jewellery for
many special occasions, so if there is something you’d like but can’t see
online, we’re confident we can make it to your exact needs, just get in touch!