Ruby Jewelry Through Ages

1. Rubies in Early History (Pre-1000 BCE)

• In ancient Burma (now Myanmar), rubies were considered “blood drops from the heart of Mother Earth,” believed to provide protection and invincibility in battle. Warriors even embedded rubies into their skin for strength.
• In India, rubies were revered in Sanskrit texts as “Ratnaraj” (King of Gems) and were highly prized among royalty. They were used in sacred jewelry, ceremonial offerings, and divine adornments.

2. Rubies in the Classical Era (1000 BCE – 500 CE)

• The Greeks and Romans adorned themselves with rubies, believing they symbolized power, wealth, and divine favor. Roman nobles often set rubies into rings and breastplates as protective talismans.
• Chinese emperors valued rubies as a sign of prosperity and wore them in imperial crowns and armor, believing they could ward off evil and misfortune.

3. The Middle Ages: A Gem of Nobility and Protection

• During medieval times, rubies were treasured by European royalty and the Church. They were thought to bring wisdom, health, and success.
• Kings and nobles wore ruby-studded crowns and scepters, believing the gem could predict danger by darkening in color.
• Religious figures adorned rubies in crosses, rings, and sacred relics, associating the gemstone with divine love and protection.

4. The Renaissance Era: The Golden Age of Ruby Jewelry

• The 15th and 16th centuries saw an explosion of ruby jewelry among European aristocracy. Monarchs such as Queen Elizabeth I and French kings prized rubies for their vibrant beauty and elite status.
• Jewelers crafted elaborate ruby necklaces, brooches, and rings, set in gold and surrounded by diamonds and pearls.
• The Mughal Empire in India also saw an era of extraordinary ruby jewelry, with intricate designs and engravings adorning royal pieces.

5. Romanticism and the Love for Rubies

• The Victorian period (1837-1901) introduced sentimental ruby jewelry, with heart-shaped ruby rings, lockets, and brooches symbolizing love and devotion.
• The Edwardian era (1901-1910) favored delicate and lacy designs, incorporating rubies into platinum settings for a regal and feminine appeal.
• The Art Deco period (1920s-1940s) embraced bold, geometric ruby designs, often paired with diamonds and onyx, reflecting the modern elegance of the time.

6. Rubies in Contemporary High Jewelry

• The Hollywood era (1950s-1960s) saw movie stars like Elizabeth Taylor and Grace Kelly adorned with stunning ruby pieces, reviving the gemstone’s association with glamour.
• Today, rubies remain a staple in fine jewelry, featured in engagement rings, necklaces, earrings, and royal collections.
• Designers craft custom ruby jewelry blending vintage inspiration with modern sophistication, ensuring the timeless appeal of rubies endures.