Ruby History

Ruby is a type of gemstone that is known for its beautiful red color and durability. It is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is made up of aluminum oxide. Ruby is a hard stone, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, making it resistant to scratching and wear.

Ruby has a long and storied history dating back thousands of years. It has been prized for its beauty and durability, and it has been used in jewelry and other decorative objects for centuries.

In ancient times, ruby was believed to have magical powers and was thought to bring good fortune and protection to its wearer. It was also associated with love and passion and was often given as a gift to symbolize love and commitment.

Ruby was popular in ancient civilizations in the Middle East, India, and Asia, and it was also prized by the ancient Greeks and Romans. In the Middle Ages, ruby became associated with royalty and was often used in the crown jewels of European monarchs.

There have been many historical figures throughout history who have been associated with rubies and have worn or owned ruby jewelry. Some examples include:

  • Queen Elizabeth II: Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom has a number of ruby pieces in her jewelry collection, including a ruby and diamond necklace and a ruby and diamond brooch.

  • Princess Diana: Princess Diana was known for her love of ruby jewelry, and she owned a number of ruby pieces, including a ruby and diamond ring and a ruby and diamond bracelet.

  • Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge: Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, has a number of ruby pieces in her jewelry collection, including a ruby and diamond ring and a ruby and diamond pendant.

  • Elizabeth Taylor: Actress Elizabeth Taylor was known for her love of jewelry and owned a number of ruby pieces, including a ruby and diamond necklace and a ruby and diamond ring.

  • King Louis XIV: King Louis XIV of France owned a number of ruby pieces, including a ruby and diamond ring and a ruby and diamond pendant.

  • King Edward VII: King Edward VII of the United Kingdom owned a number of ruby pieces, including a ruby and diamond necklace and a ruby and diamond brooch.

Today, ruby is still a popular gemstone and is used in a variety of jewelry, including engagement rings and other fine jewelry. It is also prized for its use in high-end watchmaking and in the production of electronic devices, due to its toughness and ability to withstand high temperatures.