15 interesting ruby facts
- Rubies are today even more valuable and rare than the top quality colorless diamonds.
- Rubies are rated at 9 on the Mohs' scale. Compare that to diamonds at 10 and turquoise, which is a relatively soft 5-6.
- Ruby was said to be the most precious of the twelve stones God created when he created all things, and this "lord of gems" was placed on Aaron's neck by God's command.
- Some rubies are red with yellowish to orange tones.
- In the Bible, Job says that “wisdom is more precious than rubies”.
- Nearly all rubies are treated with heat to improve color and clarity.
- In the ancient language of Sanskrit, ruby is called « ratnaraj », or « king of precious stones » and also «ratnanayaka», «leader of precious stones».
- Among the multitude of legends and strange beliefs of ancient times, it was thought that the wearer of a ruby was blessed with health, wealth, wisdom and outstanding success in «heart affairs».
- In some places ruby was even thought to confer invulnerability.
- Burmese rubies are considered among the most beautiful examples of the gemstone.
- Some translucent rubies cut into cabochons (smooth domes) produce a star with six rays that stretch across the domed surface.
- All colors of corundum except red are known as sapphires, which has created controversy about where ruby ends and sapphire begins, particularly in pink shades of corundum.
- Like many other popular gemstones, rubies can be created in a laboratory. Lab gems are an affordable choice when you're buying a ruby, but the stone's origins should always be disclosed.
- Ruby is the birthstone for July but on some ancient lists it can be the birthstone for December.
- Ruby is also the gemstone for the astrological sign Capricorn.
