What is a Ruby?
Ruby is the birthstone for July. Ruby is composed of the mineral corundum, the same mineral which forms sapphire. Sapphires can occur in numerous colors, but the name ruby is reserved exclusively for the red variety. Just as sapphire, ruby has a hardness rating of 9 and so, is very durable. Knights often wore rubies into battle to fortify their courage and provide them with the reserve of strength necessary to ensure victory. Significant sources of ruby today are Thailand, Burma and Myanmar. Nearly all rubies today are enhanced using heat to permanently improve their color and reduce any “silky” appearance. Your ruby may be safely cleaned using a soft brush with jewelry cleaning solution, except for heavily included gems. An ultrasonic cleaner may also be used.
