History of Ruby gemstone

Rubies have long been prized for their beauty and rarity, making them one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world. The history of the ruby gemstone dates back thousands of years, with records of rubies being used in jewelry as far back as ancient times. In many cultures, rubies were believed to have mystical powers and were often worn as a talisman for protection.

One of the most famous rubies in history is the Black Prince’s Ruby, which is actually a large spinel set in the British Imperial State Crown. The stone has a long and storied history, with legends claiming that it was once owned by a Moorish prince who was defeated in battle by King Pedro of Castile. The ruby was said to have been taken from the eye of a statue of the Hindu god Brahma and brought to England by Edward, the Black Prince.

Rubies have also been associated with royalty and power throughout history. In ancient Burma, now known as Myanmar, rubies were believed to protect their owners from harm and bring them good fortune. The Burmese believed that rubies were so powerful that they would even make a person invincible in battle. This belief led to the practice of embedding rubies in armor and weapons.

In addition to their mystical properties, rubies have also been valued for their beauty and rarity. The vibrant red color of a ruby is caused by the presence of chromium in the stone, which gives it its characteristic hue. The most valuable rubies are those that have a deep, rich red color with a slight purplish tint. Rubies that are too light or too dark in color are considered less valuable.

The value of a ruby is determined by a number of factors, including its color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. In general, the most valuable rubies are those that are a pure, vibrant red color with few inclusions and a well-proportioned cut. Rubies that are larger in size are also more valuable, as larger stones are rarer and more difficult to find.

Despite their beauty and rarity, rubies are not without their secrets. One of the most famous ruby mysteries is the curse of the Delhi Purple Sapphire. This large, deep violet sapphire was said to have been stolen from a temple in India and brought to England, where it was eventually acquired by Edward Heron-Allen. Heron-Allen believed that the stone was cursed and tried to get rid of it multiple times, only to have it return to him each time. Eventually, he sealed the stone in a box and left instructions for it to be buried with him after his death.

In conclusion, the history of the ruby gemstone is a long and fascinating one, filled with tales of power, beauty, and mystery. From ancient times to the present day, rubies have captivated people with their vibrant color and mystical properties. Whether worn as a talisman for protection or set in a piece of jewelry to be admired, rubies continue to hold a special place in the hearts of gemstone enthusiasts around the world.