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Known to be the symbol of eternal love, the fiery and emotional ruby
is usually presented as a gift for couples celebrating their 15th and
40th wedding anniversary. Although rubies come in different shades of
red - from orange-red, pinkish, to purple-red - the most valuable
form come in a deep red shade.
Common Locations of Rubies
Mining for rubies started some 2,500 years ago, and to this date,
ruby mining is still being undertaken in some parts of Asia such as
Thailand and Burma, Australia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the United
States. But Burma, now known as Myanmar, is the most well-known
source of fine rubies. Studies have shown that ruby mining in Burma
could be traced way back into the Stone Age and Bronze Age, as proven
by tools found in the Mogok mining area. Thailand, on the other hand,
is considered today as the most important trading center in the world
when it comes to ruby trading. There have also been discoveries of
rubies in some areas in Vietnam and most recently in Madagascar.
Myths and Rubies
In the ancient Sanskrit language, ruby is called ratnaraj translated
as "king of gemstones." Ancient Hindus believe that it is
the "Lord of all Gems."
Also known as the birthstone of those born in the month of July, and
in some studies those under the zodiac Capricorn; ruby is not only
regarded as a symbol of eternal love.
Out of the many myths and legends surrounding its brilliance, the one
that stuck the most to lovers of this lasting gemstone is the one
that said one should always be appreciative of rubies because they
become lackluster when neglected, overlooked or unloved. In a word,
you personify its symbolism, and its importance is revered in your
relationship with it.
Sovereigns or crowned heads turned to rubies for help in predicting
and consequently preventing impending danger. Royalties kept rubies
in their possession to protect them against vulnerability. They
believed that the stone turns dark in color when imminent danger is
at hand and returns to its original shade when the threat is gone.
It is likewise believed that any one who wears ruby ring is
given good health, wealth, wisdom, and luck in love and can live
peacefully amongst his enemies. This is probably one of the reasons
why this gemstone has been regarded as one of the most cherished gems
in history. Even today, rubies are viewed as more precious and rare
than diamonds.
Its inherent eternal flame, its brilliance, the way the shade of red
is refracted on each facet of the stone, giving a different red every
time you turn it towards the sun, and the rich legend surrounding it;
these are only some of the finest qualities of ruby that make it
precious and rare. This is why some true-blue romantics prefer it
over diamonds. Diamonds may be a girl's best friend, and yes, they
may spell forever, but forever does not cross over to eternity. A
ruby's eternal flame does. |
