Ruby is a Precious Stone

Though also found in hues of pink, purple and orange, ruby's most desirable and valuable color is that of the richest and purest of red.

Derivations/Origins:

Nicknamed "King of the Gems" in Sanskrit, some believed the red ruby made its wearers invincible when engaged in battle and able to live in harmony with their enemies. Rubies that are considered to be the highest and finest quality often come from Myanmar (formerly Burma).

Color/Style/Uniqueness:

Pure red is ruby's most sought after color though you will also find it in lighter shades of pink, purple or an orangey red.

Size/Budget:

Most who want a ruby will be able to find one, however very large, fine-quality rubies are very difficult to find and thus very valuable and more expensive.

Care:

Warm, soapy water is a safe way to clean ruby as long as strong detergents are avoided and you do not scrub too hard on oiled stones.
Steam cleaning is only safe for rubies that are not fracture-filled or cavity-filled stones. Never steam clean if your ruby is fracture or cavity-filled.
Ultrasonic cleaning is only safe for rubies that are not fracture-filled or cavity-filled stones. Never utilize ultrasonic cleaning if your ruby is fracture or cavity-filled.

Final Application:

Final Application: Often found in mixed-cut oval shapes or cabochons (a stone that's polished instead of faceted and will usually sit flat on its bottom with a convex top) this tough gem only diamond is harder is an excellent choice for rings.

Rubies have always been defined through their red hue. The origin of the name actually translates to red (ruber, in Latin) and the precious stone is always associated with it. This fact leads to the symbolism of rubies: passion, love, affection. In history, rubies are reported to have been used to protect Hindus from evil and they also served as trademarks for Chinese warriors. The shades of rubies can vary, ranging from light pink to darker red. The richer the red shade is, the more valuable the ruby becomes. Purple and orange are additional secondary hues, as well as pink. Rubies are evaluated using the same four Cs we explained above, as all precious stones are.