14 Karat
Every woman feels powerful rocking a red lip. The color red signifies passion, boldness, love and is the beautiful hue rubies possess. For those lucky people born in July, ruby is their birthstone! Rubies are also the traditional gift for a 40th-anniversary celebration! So whether you are celebrating decades of love, a birthday extravaganza for someone born in July, or just wanting to treat someone special in your life– Our 14 karat gold jewelry experts say rubies are the perfect gift!
The History
Called the "Rajnapura", meaning King of Gems, by ancient Hindus, rubies have always been prized and valued throughout history. Rubies were first popular amongst Asian countries, with some records indicating trade records of rubies across China’s North Silk Road around 200 B.C.
Burma particularly was a significant source of rubies since at least 600 A.D. Burmese rubies were and still are highly prized, and many mines have been depleted. A new source of rubies was discovered in Myanmar, but they did not have the deep red hue that Burma rubies possessed, and so they were heat-treated to improve saturation.
Heat-treated rubies are still popular today. So are synthetic rubies, which first made an appearance in Ancient Rome. Both synthetic and real rubies can now be used to make lasers. They also make beautiful jewelry pieces!
The Meaning
The very word ruby comes from the Latin origins “ruber” which means red. Rubies can be found in all different hues from an orange red, to a purple red, but true fiery red is the most valuable color.
In ancient times rubies were thought to have magical protective powers and were worn by many royal families to ward against evil. It was thought that the ruby would grow darker whenever evil was present and alert the wearer. It makes sense then that rubies are thought to harness an eternal flame that can never be extinguished, perfect for representing everlasting love. When worn on the left hand, it is thought to bring good luck to its owner!
Cleaning and Care
Our 14 Karat gold jewelry experts say that rubies are made up of the mineral Corundum which is the second hardest material after diamonds. In most cases, rubies can be cleaned with soapy water and a soft brush. This mostly depends on whether or not the gem has been treated in any way and if it is synthetic or natural.
If your gem is untreated, heat-treated or lattice diffusion-treated, an ultrasonic and steam cleaner should be safe to use in general. However, dyed stones should only be cleaned with a damp cloth. The best way to know how to clean your ruby is to ask our 14 Karat gold jewelry experts or reference your GIA identification report.
Visit Us
Come visit our 14 Karat gold jewelry experts to help you pick out a beautiful piece of ruby jewelry. Whether it is a new pair of ruby stud earrings or a ruby stacking ring, it is sure to be a present a July baby will love. Already have a ruby stone? We can help you to create a custom piece! Come and visit us at the Shops of Legacy, 168th and West Center Roads!
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