The Ruby, July’s Birthstone, Blazes with Fire

More precious than diamonds, rubies are the kings of precious gems. In fact, they command some of the highest prices of any colored gemstone. Only diamonds are harder, making this exquisite stone a great option for any type of jewelry.

It’s said that rubies have a fire trapped inside that glows when the stone exposed to sunlight. This “fluorescence” is caused by chromium, which also gives the ruby its red color.

Some ruby-red facts

• It’s made of corundum that’s been colored by chromium. Other colors of corundum-based gemstones are called…sapphires!
• The most valuable color is deep red with a hint of purple, called “pigeon’s blood.”
• The most sought-after stones have historically come from Myanmar; now, many come from Vietnam, Mozambique, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.
• Early cultures thought that the color represented blood, and held the power of life.
• The word “ruby” comes from the Latin “rubeus” for red.
• The vibrant color also makes it a stone that represents passion.
• Did you know? The red fluorescent power of ruby helped build the first working laser in 1960. Natural and synthetic stones are still used for lasers, as well as watches and medical instruments.
• Lady Gaga owns a pair of the 5 known Ruby Red Slippers from Wizard of Oz.

Healing properties

In ancient Rome and India, people believed wearing a ruby could increase wealth—and later on, many believed that wearing the stone on the left, the heart side, would allow them to live peacefully. It removes negative energies from your path, detoxifies the body, and promotes positive dreams.

Tips on buying ruby jewelry

As with all gemstones, the 4 C’s are the guides to getting the most for your money:

Color: This is the most important feature of a stone. Rubies can lose value if they lean toward brown, orange, or pink.

Clarity: Almost all stones have some inclusions. But if there are too many that affect the transparency, that will bring down the price.

Cut: The most popular is the “mixed-cut” with a brilliant-cut crown and step-cut pavilion.

Carat: There are few high-quality stones that run over one carat.

NOTE: Rubies are often heat-treated, which is an industry-accepted practice. But if you’re buying one, ask if it’s undergone any other treatments, like dyeing or fracture-filling, which can weaken the stone. (The FTC requires that sellers disclose treatments to you.)

Ruby jewelry is an investment that adds beauty and polish to any outfit. Remember to insure it to protect against accidents—and have an updated appraisal ready when you talk to your insurance agent.

Contact me at 617-304-0174 or at aimee@ambappraisal.com. And remember, as Glinda told Dorothy, “You always had the power my dear, you just had to learn if for yourself.”

Blazingly yours, Aimee