Why Choose a Ruby Engagement Ring? Here's What You Need To Know

THE BASICS --

A ruby engagement ring is a dramatic choice to represent a couple’s relationship, and a ruby can be a stunning, eye-catching stone to showcase romance and commitment. By understanding more about what makes ruby engagement rings so special, any couple can decide if this brilliant gem is best for their brilliant relationship.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• About Rubies
  
• Durability 
• Meaning and Symbolism
• History
  
• Ruby Jewelry
  
• Retailer
• Choosing a Ruby Ring

About Rubies

Ruby is a crystalline form of the mineral corundum, the same as sapphire. In rubies, chromium is part of the crystal, which gives the gem its characteristic red color, ranging from pinkish red to a pure blood red to red with purplish undertones. Rubies also have a rich internal glow, a “fire” that makes them very desirable as precious gemstones.

Durability

Rubies are also highly sought after for their durability. Rated as a 9.0 on the Mohs scale of hardness, ruby is only slightly less hard than diamond, and is very resistant to scratches, cracks, chips, and other damage. This makes rubies ideal for the daily wear of engagement rings.

Meaning and Symbolism

Many couples choose engagement rings that are rich with personal meaning and symbolism, and the ruby is a very symbolic gem indeed. Not only are rubies the official birthstone for July – ideal for a couple that may have met in July, become engaged in mid-summer, or be planning a July wedding – but they also represent the fortieth wedding anniversary, a longevity goal any marriage should strive to reach.

Rubies have a great deal of spiritual and emotional symbolism. These gems are said to offer protection, and to represent a range of traits ideal for an engaged couple, including passion, romance, courage, strength, good fortune, vitality, wealth, fierceness, and prosperity. With these traits as part of their engagement commitment, any couple could look forward to a long and happy union.

History

Rubies have a long history in jewelry, especially during the Victorian and Art Deco eras. In the Victorian era, rubies were often paired with diamonds and pearls in intricate, romantic designs, reflecting the elaborate style of the time. These rings frequently featured filigree details and symbolic patterns, emphasizing the deep red color of rubies as a symbol of love and passion. During the Art Deco period, rubies continued to shine, often paired with platinum and diamonds to create bold, geometric designs that captured the spirit of the Roaring Twenties.

Rubies have been highly valued in many cultures, from European, Indian, and Asian royalty to some of today’s most popular, trend-setting celebrities. Ruby jewelry has been popular throughout the years, from Laura Ingalls Wilder to Sarah, Duchess of York to Victoria Beckham, Katy Perry, Jessica Simpson, and Ashlee Simpson. Elizabeth Taylor also regularly wore exquisite ruby jewelry, and rubies have been highlighted in the crown jewels of Great Britain, Spain, Austria, Sweden, Denmark, Portugal, and other prominent nations.

Ruby Jewelry

Whether couples want to choose a ruby engagement ring for its outstanding color, durability, symbolism, or royal and celebrity appeal, there are many beautiful options to choose from. Because rubies have been timelessly popular, these gems are featured in a range of antique jewelry and vintage engagement rings, including from the Victorian and Art Deco era as well as other fashionable periods. Rubies can be found in halo, cluster, three-stone, solitaire, and other classic settings, as well as more unique and distinctive rings.

Retailer

To find the perfect ruby engagement ring, a couple should work with a reputable retailer that has extensive gemstone knowledge and experience. A broad inventory of ruby rings will give a couple a better selection to browse, checking which styles and settings appeal best and fit most comfortably on the hand. Couples should also learn about the color, clarity, and other factors that influence a ruby's value so they can be sure to choose a ring that is suitably priced and appropriately authenticated.

Choosing a Ruby Ring

Choosing an engagement ring is a significant step in a couple’s relationship, and opting for a ruby is a distinctive and fashionable choice. A ruby ring can be a lovely way to mark a couple’s engagement, and the outstanding beauty of a ruby will hold great meaning for the couple for many years to come.

SUZANNE SACHS

Suzanne has always believed vintage rings can change lives. She's been in the jewelry industry for over 35 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you — your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.