Introduction: Ruby Rings

Ruby rings are a stunning and timeless piece of jewelry that can add a vibrant splash of color to any outfit. Whether you’re looking for a special gift, want to treat yourself, or simply enjoy learning more about gemstones, ruby rings are an exciting option. We’ll dive deep into the world of ruby rings. From understanding what makes rubies so special to tips on choosing and styling a ruby ring, this article will give you all the information you need. 

What is Ruby?

A ruby is a type of gemstone that belongs to the corundum family. You might already be familiar with sapphires, another popular gemstone in the corundum family. Rubies are known for their beautiful red color, which can range from bright pinkish-red to deep blood-red. The red color in rubies comes from a trace element called chromium. The more chromium a ruby contains, the richer its red color will be.

Rubies are considered one of the four precious gemstones, alongside diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires. They have been treasured for centuries due to their incredible beauty, rarity, and strength. Rubies are also believed to symbolize passion, love, and power, which is why they make such a meaningful gift for special occasions like engagements or anniversaries.

The History of Rubies: A Gemstone with Ancient Roots

Rubies have been admired for thousands of years, with their bright red color symbolizing power and love. The word “ruby” comes from the Latin word for red, “ruber.” Ancient cultures, like those in India and Burma, valued rubies so much that they were used in trade or even worn as a way to bring good luck. In ancient Egypt, rubies were thought to protect and bring good fortune. Kings and queens wore them in crowns, seeing them as symbols of strength and passion. Today, rubies still hold that same charm and are a timeless gemstone, loved for both their beauty and rich history.

Why Choose a Ruby Ring?

Ruby rings have been adored throughout history, and for good reason. Here are some of the key reasons why you might want to consider a ruby ring:

1. Stunning Beauty: The most obvious reason to choose a ruby ring is because of the beauty of the gemstone itself. The deep red color of a ruby is bold, vibrant, and eye-catching. It stands out, making it perfect for those who want to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to their look.
2. Symbolism: Rubies have long been associated with love, passion, and power. Because of their rich red color, rubies symbolize deep emotions and strong relationships. Many people choose rubies for engagement rings or anniversary rings because they represent enduring love and commitment.
3. Durability: Rubies are incredibly durable. On the Mohs scale of hardness (which measures how hard a gemstone is), rubies rank 9 out of 10. Only diamonds are harder. This means rubies are tough enough to last a lifetime, making them a great choice for rings that will be worn every day.
4. Investment: High-quality rubies can be valuable, and their value tends to increase over time. If you choose a high-grade ruby for your ring, you may be investing in something that could become even more valuable in the future.
5. Timeless Appeal: Ruby rings never go out of style. Their rich color and elegance make them perfect for both classic and modern designs. Whether you prefer vintage-inspired jewelry or something more contemporary, there’s a ruby ring style for you.

Types of Ruby Rings

There are many different types of ruby rings, so you can find one that fits your style and taste. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular styles of ruby rings.

1. Solitaire Ruby Rings

A solitaire ruby ring features a single ruby set in the center of the band. This style allows the ruby to be the focal point of the ring, making it a great choice for those who want the gemstone to stand out. Solitaire rings are classic and elegant, often used for engagement rings or special occasion rings. The simplicity of a solitaire ring lets the beauty of the ruby shine through.

2. Ruby Cluster Rings

A cluster ruby ring features multiple smaller rubies arranged in a pattern. This design can give the appearance of one large ruby, but it’s made up of several smaller stones. Cluster rings can be designed in a variety of ways, from flower-like arrangements to more geometric shapes. These rings are perfect for those who want something unique and eye-catching.

3. Ruby Halo Rings

A halo ruby ring is a design where the ruby is surrounded by a ring of smaller diamonds or other gemstones. The halo of smaller stones enhances the color and brilliance of the central ruby, making the whole ring appear even more dazzling. This design is popular for engagement rings, as it adds extra sparkle and glamour to the ruby.

4. Ruby Three-Stone Rings

A three-stone ruby ring features three stones: one large ruby in the center and two smaller stones on either side. The three stones are often set to symbolize the past, present, and future. This type of ring is also popular as an engagement ring, symbolizing the journey of a relationship. You can choose to have the side stones as rubies, diamonds, or even other gemstones for a personalized touch.

5. Ruby Wedding Bands

For a unique twist on the traditional wedding band, some people choose ruby wedding bands. These bands feature rubies set along the band, either in a row or scattered throughout the ring. Ruby wedding bands are a great way to add a pop of color to your bridal set and symbolize the love and passion in your relationship.

6. Vintage Ruby Rings

Vintage ruby rings have a classic, antique style. These rings often feature intricate designs and detailed metalwork, with the ruby set in a unique way. Vintage ruby rings can add a sense of history and romance to your jewelry collection. If you love old-fashioned styles, a vintage ruby ring could be the perfect choice for you.

Choosing the Right Ruby for Your Ring

When shopping for a ruby ring, it’s important to understand the key factors that determine the quality of the ruby. Important things to consider include:

1. Color

The most important thing to look at when choosing a ruby is its color. Rubies can range from pale pinkish-red to deep, blood-red hues. The most precious rubies have a rich, deep red color, often called “pigeon’s blood” red. The color of the ruby will affect its overall appearance and price, so choose a color that appeals to you.

2. Clarity

Like other gemstones, rubies can have inclusions (small imperfections inside the stone). These inclusions are often called “jardins.” Rubies with fewer inclusions are considered higher quality and more valuable. Some rubies have inclusions that are not visible to the naked eye, so be sure to examine the gemstone closely before making a decision.

3. Cut

The cut of the ruby refers to how the gemstone is shaped and faceted. A well-cut ruby will have good symmetry and allow light to reflect off the surfaces of the stone, making it sparkle. When picking a ruby, choose one with a good cut to enhance its beauty.

4. Carat Weight

The size of the ruby is measured in carats. Bigger rubies usually cost more than smaller ones. The overall quality of the ruby (such as color and clarity) is more important than the size. Choose a ruby that fits within your budget, but don’t forget to consider the other quality factors as well.

5. Origin

Rubies are found in many places around the world, with famous mines in Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, and Sri Lanka. Burmese rubies are highly valued for their deep, rich color. Rubies from other locations can also be beautiful, so consider the origin of the ruby when making your purchase.

Famous Ruby Rings and Iconic Jewelry

Some ruby rings have become famous for their beauty and history. One of the most iconic ruby rings is the “Burmese Ruby Tiara,” worn by Queen Elizabeth II. It’s known for its stunning rubies surrounded by diamonds. Another famous piece is the “Windsor Ruby Necklace,” which was worn by Princess Diana and later passed down to Kate Middleton. These famous ruby jewelry pieces show how rubies have been loved by royalty and celebrities for centuries. Their rich red color and timeless beauty make them stand out in the world of jewelry.

How to Care for Your Ruby Ring

Rubies are tough gemstones, but they still require some care to keep them looking their best. Here are a few tips for caring for your ruby ring:

1. Clean Your Ring Regularly: To keep your ruby ring sparkling, clean it regularly using warm water and mild soap. Gently scrub the ruby with a soft toothbrush to remove dirt and oils. Be sure to dry the ring with a soft cloth afterward.
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Rubies are durable, but harsh chemicals can damage their surface or cause the metal in your ring to tarnish. Avoid exposing your ruby ring to harsh chemicals, such as bleach, chlorine, or cleaning products.
3. Store Your Ring Safely: When you’re not wearing your ruby ring, store it in a jewelry box or pouch to protect it from scratches and damage. Keep your ruby ring away from other jewelry that could cause scratches, like diamonds or other hard gemstones.
4. Get Regular Inspections: Take your ruby ring to a jeweler for regular inspections to make sure the gemstone is secure in its setting. If you notice any loose stones or damage, have it repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

Ruby Rings for Engagement: Why Choose a Ruby Instead of a Diamond?

Ruby rings make a unique and meaningful choice for engagement rings. While diamonds are traditional, rubies symbolize love, passion, and power, making them a beautiful alternative. The deep red color of a ruby stands out and can be just as stunning as a diamond. Plus, rubies are very durable, ranking just below diamonds on the hardness scale, so they’re perfect for everyday wear. Choosing a ruby for an engagement ring is a great way to show someone how special they are with a gemstone that’s rare, beautiful, and full of meaning.

Popular Ruby Ring Styles and Settings

Ruby rings come in a wide variety of settings and styles, allowing you to find the perfect ring for your taste. Here are some of the most important settings:

1. Prong Setting: In a prong setting, the ruby is held in place by small metal claws. This allows more light to pass through the ruby, making it sparkle. Prong settings are common for solitaire ruby rings.
2. Bezel Setting: In a bezel setting, the ruby is surrounded by a metal band that holds the gemstone securely in place. This type of setting offers extra protection for the ruby and creates a sleek, modern look.
3. Pave Setting: A pave setting features small diamonds or gemstones set closely together along the band of the ring. This creates a sparkling effect that complements the central ruby.
4. Channel Setting: In a channel setting, the ruby is set into a groove along the band, with no prongs or metal separating the gemstone. This provides a smooth, modern look.

Conclusion

Ruby rings are an amazing choice for anyone looking for a piece of jewelry that combines beauty, durability, and meaning. With their rich red color and symbolic connection to love and passion, rubies make a timeless and elegant addition to any jewelry collection. Whether you’re choosing a ruby for an engagement ring, a special gift, or simply for yourself, a ruby ring is sure to make a statement. Keep the tips from this guide in mind to choose the perfect ruby and care for it properly so you can enjoy its beauty for years to come.