July Birthstone: 10 Fun Facts (Ruby)
If you're a lover of gemstones, you’re sure to be fascinated by rubies. This stunning red gem has been coveted for centuries and carries a rich history and lore from around the world. Here are 10 fun facts about rubies that you may not know!
1. Natural rubies are rarer than diamonds: While diamonds are prevalent on the market, natural rubies are much rarer. In fact, they're the rarest of all colored gems, and the finest specimens can be worth more than a diamond, carat-for-carat.
2. Rubies are the traditional UK birthstone for July.
3. Rubies are traditionally used to mark a 40th wedding anniversary.
4. The largest ruby weighed over 400 carats: The largest ruby ever found is the Liberty Bell Ruby, which weighs an impressive 8.5 ounces, or about 401.5 carats.
5. Rubies are durable gemstones: Rubies have an impressive hardness rating of 9 on the Mohs scale, making them one of the most suitable gems to withstand everyday wear and tear.
6. Rubies are often given as gifts for special occasions: In many cultures, rubies are associated with love and passion, making them a popular choice for engagement rings, anniversary gifts and other special occasions.
7. Rubies are mined all over the world: Rubies can be found in several countries, including Myanmar, Thailand, India, and Madagascar, among others.
8. Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, which also includes sapphires. The only difference between them is the red colouring of rubies!
9. The higher the quality of a ruby, the rarer and more valuable it becomes. A ruby's price is primarily influenced by its size, determined by carat weight, and the intensity of its colour. Rubies with a 'blood red' or 'pigeon blood' hue are among the most expensive due to their vibrant, rich colour, which is highly sought after.
10. Rubies have been mined for thousands of years, with the first accounts dating back to ancient times.
In conclusion, rubies are one of the most captivating and valuable gemstones in the world. Their rich history, stunning colours, and durability make them a popular choice for jewellery and collectors alike. Whether you're looking for a dazzling engagement ring or a unique addition to your collection, rubies are sure to impress!
At the time of writing this post, we have several one-of-a-kind ruby pieces of jewellery in stock including…
