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Crystal meanings
Ruby: meaning, traditions and care
Ruby is a red variety of the mineral corundum, the same mineral as sapphire, usually red, from pinkish to deep 'pigeon's blood'. In modern crystal tradition it is linked with passion and vitality. At 9 on the Mohs scale it is hard enough for everyday handling and jewellery.
Key facts
| Ruby | |
|---|---|
| What it is | A red variety of the mineral corundum, the same mineral as sapphire |
| Colour | Red, from pinkish to deep 'pigeon's blood' |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9 |
| Typical sources | Myanmar, Mozambique, Thailand and Sri Lanka |
| Chakra (tradition) | Root and heart |
| Star signs (tradition) | Leo, Cancer and Sagittarius |
| Birthstone | July |
History and folklore
- In Sanskrit ruby was called ratnaraj, 'king of gems'.
- Ruby is the birthstone for July and the gem for a 40th wedding anniversary.
Traditional meaning
In modern crystal tradition ruby is associated with passion and vitality; July birthstone. These ideas mostly come from twentieth-century crystal books, built on older folklore. We share them as tradition and for personal meaning, not as health or medical claims.
Zodiac and chakra associations
Crystal writers link ruby with Leo, Cancer and Sagittarius, and with the root chakra and heart chakra. Lists differ between books, so treat these as starting points.
How to care for ruby
Ruby is very hard. Warm soapy water and a soft brush are safe; avoid harsh cleaners on treated or glass-filled stones, which are common.
Store it in a soft pouch or a lined box, apart from harder stones such as quartz, which could scratch it.
Choosing ruby
- Look for even colour that suits you; natural ruby varies from piece to piece.
- Ask whether a piece is dyed, treated or reconstituted. Honest sellers say so.
- Pick tumbled stones for carrying, larger pieces for display and set jewellery for wearing.
Good companions
Ruby is often paired with Garnet, Red jasper and Carnelian.
Shop ruby
Questions answered
What is ruby?
Ruby is a red variety of the mineral corundum, the same mineral as sapphire. It is usually red, from pinkish to deep 'pigeon's blood'.
What does ruby mean?
In modern crystal tradition it is linked with passion and vitality; July birthstone. This is tradition and belief, not a health claim.
Can ruby go in water?
A quick wash in lukewarm soapy water is fine for most pieces. Ruby is very hard.
Which star signs is ruby linked with?
Leo, Cancer and Sagittarius, in modern crystal tradition.
Where does ruby come from?
Mainly Myanmar, Mozambique, Thailand and Sri Lanka.
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