Known as the “King of Gemstones”, this month’s birthstone is Ruby (and also the traditional gift for a 40th wedding anniversary). Deriving its name from the Latin ‘Ruber’ meaning red, rubies are dark red in colour. For more than five centuries, Ruby has been found in the Mogok area in Myanmar (formally known as Burma) but is also found in Thailand, Vietnam and Mozambique.
Now you know I love myths and legends, especially when associated with gemstones and the ruby has plenty of these. Rubies have the ability to absorb natural light and then release that light a little while later, causing the gemstone to glow. Legend has it that this was a warning of impending danger or bad luck, giving the wearer time to prepare! In more recent times, there is a belief that the glowing light from the ruby signifies the essence of life, a reminder that the wearer is full of life.
In ancient Asia,the ruby’s unique features led people to believe it held mystical powers. This belief was so strong among Burmese warriors that they wore necklaces of rubies, sure that it made them invincible.
The root Chakra is represented by a deep red colour and so a connection was made with the ruby by ancient Hindu’s who believed that the gemstone could ward off negative energy, fight evil and treat inflammation.
Thought to contain passion and energy, Rubies can be found in the crowns of kings and queens, the armour and swords of warriors and in the jewellery of those who wanted to increase their energy, gain courage and bring success in gaining wealth and love...and were even buried in the foundations of buildings in China in the hope that it would bring good luck and fortune!
If you want to bestow a little good luck, wealth and love on yourself or a loved one, get in touch to commission the perfect piece of jewellery.
