The King of Gems: The History and Value of the Ruby - Why This Fiery Stone Rules Them All

Let’s be honest—some gemstones are wallflowers, and some are the life of the party. The ruby, with its fiery red glow that could probably start a campfire, is definitely the latter. This isn’t just a pretty red rock; this is the gemstone that kings and queens have fought wars over, the stone that ancient cultures believed held the very power of life itself. If diamonds are a girl’s best friend, rubies are that friend who shows up with a bottle of champagne and a fantastic story. At Robinson’s Jewelers, we’ve seen our fair share of stunning gems, but there’s something undeniably special about a high-quality ruby. Its rich color isn’t just seen; it’s felt. It’s a stone of passion, protection, and immense power, and its journey through history is as vibrant as its color.

So, why exactly is the ruby crowned the “King of Gems”? It’s not just because it looks fantastic in a bracelet (though it certainly does). The title comes from its incredible rarity, its unparalleled hardness (only diamonds are tougher), and that legendary, blood-red hue that has captivated humanity for millennia. From the crowns of emperors to the engagement rings of modern romantics, the ruby has always signified something profound: unwavering love, deep courage, and a zest for life that simply can’t be ignored.

A Royal Lineage: Rubies Through the Ages

The ruby’s passport is more stamped than a world-traveling diplomat. In ancient Sanskrit, it was called “ratnaraj,” which translates to “king of precious stones.” That’s not a nickname you earn by being average. Burmese warriors famously inserted rubies into their flesh, believing it would make them invincible in battle. We don’t recommend this method of accessorizing today—it’s much more comfortable (and sanitary) to wear a stunning piece from our ruby jewelry collection.

In medieval Europe, the ruby was thought to guarantee health, wealth, wisdom, and success in love. It was the ultimate multi-tasking gem! Nobility adorned their crowns, signet rings, and pendants with rubies, not just for their beauty, but as a powerful talisman. Even today, the British Crown Jewels are absolutely dripping with remarkable rubies, a testament to their enduring royal status.

What Makes a Ruby So Valuable? It’s All About the Color

When it comes to rubies, color is everything. The most prized color is a very specific, pure, vibrant red with a hint of blue, often called “pigeon’s blood.” No pigeons are harmed in the making of this color—it’s just a poetic way to describe that impossibly perfect, saturated red that seems to glow from within. This color is primarily found in rubies from Myanmar (formerly Burma), though fantastic stones also come from Mozambique, Madagascar, and Vietnam.

Beyond color, gemologists look at clarity, cut, and carat weight. Unlike diamonds, it’s completely expected for a natural ruby to have some inclusions (internal characteristics). Think of them as the gem’s fingerprint—proof of its natural, earth-made origin. A completely flawless ruby is so exceptionally rare that if you find one, you should probably check if you’ve also won the lottery. This rarity is a huge driver of value. In fact, a high-quality ruby can often command higher prices per carat than a diamond of equivalent size!

Rubies in Modern Luxury: How to Wear the King of Gems

So, how do you incorporate this regal stone into your 21st-century life? Fear not, you don’t need a crown (unless that’s your thing, in which case, you do you). The beauty of the ruby is its incredible versatility. A classic ruby necklace adds a pop of passionate color to any outfit, while ruby earrings can light up your entire face.

For a truly show-stopping piece, consider a ruby surrounded by diamonds. The cool white brilliance of the diamonds makes the ruby’s red fire even more intense. You can find breathtaking designs like this from our luxury brand partners like Cartier, Oscar Heyman, and Bvlgari.

And let’s talk about the ultimate power move: the ruby engagement ring. Move over, clear stones! A ruby engagement ring screams passion, individuality, and a love that’s anything but boring. It’s a bold declaration, and we are absolutely here for it. Brands like Charles Krypell and Gumuchian create exquisite bridal pieces that incorporate colored gems in the most elegant ways.

Beyond the Red Carpet: Caring for Your Ruby

Owning a ruby is a bit like owning a classic car—it’s powerful, beautiful, and requires a little TLC to keep it in peak condition. The good news? With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, your ruby is very durable for daily wear. But to keep that fire burning bright, a simple routine is key.

Clean your ruby jewelry with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are usually safe, but it’s always best to check with us first, especially if the stone has fractures or has been treated. Avoid exposing your ruby to harsh chemicals or extreme temperature changes. Basically, take it off before you dive into the pool or start bleaching the bathroom. Store it separately in a soft cloth or pouch to prevent it from scratching your other, less-tough jewelry (looking at you, pearls).

The Ultimate Symbol of Passion

From ancient battlefields to modern red carpets, the ruby’s reign is far from over. It’s a gemstone that embodies the most intense human emotions: love, anger, courage, and desire. It’s a symbol of power that doesn’t have to be loud to be heard. Whether set in a delicate tennis bracelet from Roberto Coin or a bold cocktail ring from EFFY, a ruby makes a statement that you are here, you are passionate, and you have excellent taste.

Ready to find your piece of royal history? Explore our curated collection of ruby jewelry or visit us at Robinson’s Jewelers. Let us help you find a gem that isn’t just beautiful, but has a story as fiery and unique as you are.