Ruby Meaning and Healing Properties (2024)

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by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read

THE BASICS --

There's no better way to celebrate special days in July than with a stunning ruby. Beyond its captivating red color, a ruby holds symbolism and significance that transcend its physical beauty. Whether it's for a birthday, anniversary, holiday gift, or just to say congratulations, I love you, or you're special, a vintage ruby ring or other ruby jewelry can be the perfect choice.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• What is a Ruby?
• Ruby Color
• Ruby Mines
• Ruby Meaning
• Courage and Confidence
• Passion and Love
• Celebrity Symbolism
• Ruby Healing Properties
• Emotional Balance
• Heart Health
• Detoxification
• Ruby History
• Finding a Ruby Ring
• Other July Birthstones

What is a Ruby?

A ruby is a precious gemstone that is a variety of the mineral corundum (aluminum oxide). Its red color is caused by the presence of chromium. Rubies are highly valued for their rich, vibrant red hues and their durability, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, just below diamonds. Rubies have been prized for centuries and are often associated with passion, protection, and prosperity. They are one of the four traditional precious stones, along with sapphires, emeralds, and diamonds. 

Ruby Color

The color of a ruby is one of its most defining and valued characteristics. Rubies are known for their vibrant red hues, which can range from pinkish-red to deep, blood-red. The specific shade and intensity of the red color in a ruby are primarily influenced by the presence and amount of chromium in the stone. 

“Suzanne was amazing! I utilized the layaway service and it was a breeze. Ring made its way to Texas and was even more gorgeous in person."
— Chloe G verified buyer

Ruby Mines

Ruby mines are spread across various countries, each known for producing rubies with unique characteristics. Notable locations include Myanmar's Mogok Valley (Burma), famous for "pigeon's blood" rubies with their deep, vibrant red hue; Thailand's Chanthaburi, known for darker, garnet-like rubies; and Mozambique's Montepuez, a leading source of high-quality rubies similar to Burmese stones. Sri Lanka's mines produces lighter, pinkish-red rubies, while Vietnam's Luc Yen is noted for its rich, red gems.

Ruby Meaning

• Courage and Confidence

Historically, rubies were believed to bestow courage and confidence upon the wearer. Warriors in ancient cultures often wore rubies to protect themselves in battle and to enhance their bravery.

• Passion and Love

Rubies are often associated with intense emotions such as passion, love, and desire. They are considered powerful symbols of romantic love and are sometimes given as gifts to express deep affection. stone   

• Celebrity Symbolism

For those who love the glamour of Hollywood, you can enjoy a turquoise ring knowing it is a favorite of many celebrities and royalty.  This style has adorned the fingers of top names including Jessica Simpson, Elizabeth Taylor, Anjelina Jolie and Salma Hayek.

Ruby Healing Properties

• Emotional Balance

Rubies are thought to promote emotional balance by helping to release negative emotions such as anger and resentment. They are believed to foster positive feelings, including love, compassion, and joy.

• Heart Health 

In crystal healing, rubies are associated with the heart chakra. They are believed to support heart health, improve circulation, and enhance the flow of life force energy throughout the body. Rubies are strongly associated with the root chakra, also known as the Muladhara chakra. This chakra is the first of the seven primary chakras and is located at the base of the spine. It represents our foundation, grounding, and connection to the physical world

• Detoxification

Rubies are thought to aid in detoxifying the body, helping to cleanse the blood and remove toxins. This property is believed to contribute to overall physical health and well-being.

Ruby History

Rubies, revered as the "king of precious stones," have a rich history spanning ancient civilizations to modern times. During the Victorian era (1837-1901), rubies held a special place in the hearts of the British aristocracy and were highly valued for their beauty and symbolism. During the Art Deco era (1920s-1930s), rubies became prominent in jewelry designs that emphasized bold, geometric shapes and vibrant color contrasts. The Art Deco movement celebrated modernity, luxury, and technological progress, and rubies, with their striking red hue, fit perfectly into this aesthetic. During the 1970s, big jewelers like Harry Winston and Van Cleef & Arpels prominently featured rubies in their designs, continuing their tradition of creating exquisite, high-end jewelry. 

Finding a Ruby Ring

Today, rubies remain popular in all types of jewelry, from necklaces and earrings to stunning rings. They can be mounted in platinum, yellow gold, or rose gold, catering to a variety of design preferences, from modern elegance to romantic warmth. Rubies are particularly cherished in Victorian rings for their bold color and how beautifully they pair with the luster of pearls and other gemstones. In Art Deco jewelry, ruby accents often appear in geometric patterns, enhancing the intricate designs. These timeless stones also complement old European cut diamonds in many vintage pieces, cementing rubies as a versatile and enduring choice in jewelry design.  

Other July Birthstones

While Ruby is the most popular of the July birthstones, it is not the only option for celebrating July birthdays and special occasions with a little sparkle. Onyx and turquoise are also considered July birthstones and have other beautiful tones that can mark this month in delightful ways.