Ruby wedding rings showcase the splendid deep red of the ruby in various settings. This creates a truly unique style for an engagement or wedding ring symbolizing strength, warmth and passionate love.
How many times have you heard the term "ruby red?" The word "ruby" in fact, comes from the Latin word "ruben" meaning red. The world's finest rubies are found in Burma while some are also come from Afghanistan, Australia, India, Madagascar, Pakistan, Russia, Thailand, Vietnam and the United States.
Seductive and enchanting, rubies are the second hardest gemstone after the diamond. Available in all shapes and styles, prices for rubies vary widely and depend on the grade and quality of the gemstone in your ring. Very important too is a precision cut to make the most of the stone. Synthetic or imitation rubies have been around for over a century but it is rare to find a natural ruby over 3-carats in size.
Millions of years ago, when rubies were being formed in the earth, the amount of chromium and iron in the stone determined how red it would become. Colors can vary widely from vermilion to deep red. In fact, the chrome which formed the rubies is also responsible for the fissures and irregularities in the crystals which means very few rubies were left to grow undisturbed through the centuries to a very large size.
Rubies in the 1 to 3-carat range sell for about $1,000 per carat in commercial grades and up to $10,000 per carat for the finest quality. One example of an extraordinary ruby is the Mogok Ruby, a 15.97-carat gemstone which sold for $3,600,000-about $225,000 per carat.
The gem name for rubies is corundum but any colors of corundum other than red are called sapphire. Sapphires are found in a variety of shades such as black, orange, green, violet or mauve, just to name a few. The most sought after ruby is called "pigeon's blood" which is a sparkling, pure red with just a hint of blue.
Color is the most important feature of a ruby and transparency is second. Inclusions or "birthmarks" don't affect the value of a ruby unless they affect the transparency of the stone. In fact, rather than lessen the value, these inclusions give each stone its own unique fingerprint provided by nature.
Rubies are the birthstone of those born in July so if your future bride has a birthday in that month, a ruby engagement ring may be especially appropriate.
Combined with traditional white diamonds or in a setting by itself, the ruby engagement ring speaks of life, love and commitment. Be careful though. Legend says if the course of true love is not running smoothly, the color of the ruby gemstone in the engagement ring will darken.
Rubies are also known as the "Stone of Nobility" and their metaphysical properties are said to gather and amplify energy and bring light, contentment and peace into one's life. In fact, ancient lore says the ruby is capable of reconciling lover's quarrels. What better way to begin a lifelong union with the love of your life, than putting a ruby engagement ring on her finger?
