Rubies are the gemstone associated with Tuesday, they are also the birthstone for July. It is the colour of this gemstone that has given it its allure over the ages. The rich red colour is the colour of passion and love. The Ruby is known as the King of Gems by the Hindus and is considered to have magical powers. It has also been worn by royalty as a talisman to ward off evil. In olden days the colour of the stone was believed to darken when danger was imminent!

The word Ruby comes from the Latin word “ruber”, literally meaning red. This gemstone is a variety of the mineral corundum, with the blue variety being sapphire. It is the second hardest mineral after the Diamond, and so is extremely durable. So powerful, that some ancient tribes
used to use the gems as bullets for their blowguns! The colour of the ruby can range from the most popular and widely recognised red to an orange red and purple red colours. The true and vibrant red colour is the most valuable and large ruby stones are rare.

Legend has it that the colour of the ruby comes from an internal flame within the stone that can never be extinguished! This interpretation makes the ruby gemstone an excellent gift for your loved one as an engagement or anniversary present. Legend also tells us that when the ruby is worn on the left hand it will bring good fortune to its wearer. The most beautiful ruby gemstones are mined in Burma, but excellent quality stones can also be found in India, Sri Lanka, Africa and the United States. Make sure you always buy from a reputable dealer.