Rubies have long been thought to have healing properties in treating both the blood and matters of the heart. When you say the word ruby you immediately visualize the colorful images of this stone, as well as an emotional response of passion, romance, and power. Yes thats the power and the beauty of a ruby! The deep rich color of the ruby ranges from fiery orange red to deep purple red. This rare gem is one of the most expensive gems and one of the most sought after.
The ruby has a history steeped in mystery and medicine. For centuries it has been used to cure and protect. Ancient cultures believed the ruby could cure ailments of the digestive system, energize the blood, and treat the heart. Warriors wore the ruby into battle because of its protective qualities.
The ruby as a gemstone for jewelry has a very interesting history. The crown of Charles IV of Luxembourg from the 1300s held a gem quality ruby that was a whopping 250 carats. The Smithsonian is home to a 137 carat cabochon star ruby. The most expensive ruby ever sold at auction was a 15.97 carat stone that sold for $3.63 million in 1988. No matter their size or value all can agree that the...