Ruby: The gemstone kings wanted more than diamonds

If you were a king or queen hundreds of years ago, there's a good chance you would have chosen a Ruby over a diamond.

Surprised? Us too..

For hundreds of years, rubies were considered the most valuable gemstone in the world. In ancient Burma, India & across Europe, they were treasured by royalty, warriors & collectors who believed this fiery red stone possessed extraordinary power.

As July's birthstone, Ruby is often associated with passion & love. But the story of the Ruby  goes far beyond romance….In fact, it was once known as the "King of Gemstones."

A gemstone worth more than gold

Ancient cultures believed rubies contained an eternal flame burning within them. Their vivid red colour reminded people of blood, fire, vitality & life itself. Because of this, rubies became symbols of power, courage & protection.

In ancient India, rubies were called the "Ratnaraj", meaning King of Precious Stones and many believed offering a ruby to the gods would guarantee prosperity & peace in future lives. Not bad for a little red stone….

3 Things you probably didn't know about rubies

1. Rubies are more valuable than diamonds

Wild huh!? The rarest rubies can command higher prices per carat than many diamonds.

Their value depends on colour, clarity & origin, with the most sought-after stones displaying a rich, vibrant red often referred to as "pigeon's blood”...

2. Warriors once embedded rubies into their armour

Ancient Burmese warriors believed rubies made them invincible in battle.

Some even placed rubies beneath their skin, convinced the gemstone would protect them from injury & give them strength.

3. Rubies & sapphires are actually related

Despite looking completely different, rubies & sapphires come from the same mineral family: corundum.

The only difference is colour. If corundum is red, it's called a ruby. Every other colour becomes a sapphire. Fun fact to share with your gal pals over a wine!

Why do rubies still captivate us today, 100’s of years later!?

There's something undeniably magnetic about a ruby. Unlike softer, more delicate gemstones, ruby feels bold, Confident & alive.

For centuries it has symbolised passion, courage, vitality & the pursuit of what truly matters.  It's always been the gemstone of people who don't want to play small, and we think that’s pretty timeless, don’t you?

Red Rubies are for those who love deeply, dream boldly & aren't afraid to take up space.

A true symbol of love

While rubies are often gifted as romantic tokens, their meaning extends much further.

They can represent:

• Confidence & self-belief

• Courage during times of change

• Passion for life

• Personal power

• Strength & resilience

It's a gemstone that reminds us to lead with heart while standing firmly in our own power.

Whether you're celebrating a July birthday, marking a milestone, or simply drawn to its fiery beauty, Ruby is more than a gemstone.

It's a reminder to burn brightly, follow your passions & never apologise for your brilliance.