Ruby

Ruby and sapphire are, in fact, the same gemstone—corundum (aluminum oxide). The difference is chromium, which turns ruby a vivid red.

It forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks at high temperatures and pressures. The very chromium that gives its color creates tiny internal stresses in the crystal—which is why large, clean rubies are rarer than diamonds of the same size.

The most prized hues are called the poetic “pigeon’s blood”—an intense red with a faint bluish glow, seen in under 1% of rubies.

Long hailed as the “king of gemstones,” ruby was worn by warriors for courage and invulnerability; in many cultures it symbolized life itself, through the color of blood.

In 1957, Elizabeth Taylor received from her husband, Mike Todd, a legendary Cartier suite of Burmese rubies, which the actress considered her lucky stone.

Ruby remains a showstopping red-carpet gem today and a character-rich alternative to diamond for engagement rings.

Hues range from red-pink to a deep, fiery red. Color—not size—is what determines a ruby’s value.

The most renowned rubies come from the “Valley of Rubies” at Mogok in Burma, mined for over 800 years, as well as from Mozambique and Thailand.

Like sapphire, ruby can display asterism—rare star rubies show a six-rayed star in direct light.

Ruby symbolizes passion, vitality, and courage, and is July’s birthstone, associated with love and energy.

With a hardness of 9, it’s highly durable and suitable for everyday wear—just avoid hard knocks and sudden temperature changes.

Clean gently with a soft cloth. Its warm red looks beautiful in yellow gold, and also creates a striking contrast with 925 silver.