A Journey to the Red Heart of the Earth
Rubies have captivated humanity since time immemorial, standing out for their intensity and depth that evokes images of passion and power. This gem, known as the queen of gemstones , has been a constant in royal crowns and jewelry throughout history.
But when was the first ruby discovered? And what makes this stone so special?
The Origin of the Ruby
Although it is difficult to determine the exact moment of the discovery of the first rubies , it is known that these gems were already highly valued by Asian civilizations more than 2000 years ago. They are mentioned in Sanskrit literature under the name " ratnaraj ", meaning " the king of gems ". The oldest deposits are found in Myanmar (formerly Burma), famous for producing rubies of unsurpassed quality.
Rubies in Exquisite Jewelry
Over the centuries, rubies have adorned everything from religious ornaments to the most exclusive jewelry of high society. One of the most famous examples is the Black Prince ruby , a historic gem that now adorns the British crown . This stone is not only famous for its size and color, but also for its intriguing story of power and conquest.
Unique Characteristics of Ruby
Despite its hardness , which is only surpassed by diamond , the valuation of a ruby depends on several factors, color being the most important. The most desired color is a deep red with a slightly purple undertone, known as " pigeon blood red" . Additionally, the clarity and cut of the gem also influence its value. On a scientific level, ruby is a form of corundum, the same mineral as sapphire, but it is the presence of chromium that gives it its characteristic red color.
