Choosing an engagement ring is more than just a decision; it’s the beginning of a beautiful journey. The ring you choose has the power to symbolise your unique love story and reflect your individual style.
Recently, ruby engagement rings have emerged as a popular alternative to the traditional diamond engagement ring thanks to their unmatched vibrant charm and meaningful symbolism.
Revered as the ‘king of precious gems’, their vibrant red hue – symbolising love and passion – can make a ruby engagement ring an exquisite testament to your enduring commitment.
In this article, we’ll explore the allure of ruby engagement rings, their symbolism, factors determining their value, and why they may be the perfect way to express your love for your partner.
A Rich History: The Symbolism of Rubies
Rubies – a variety of the mineral corundum – have been revered for centuries for their intense red colour.
Ancient cultures regarded them as talismans of protection, prosperity, and passion. Known for their fiery red hue, they symbolise love and romance, making them an ideal choice for engagement rings.
Rubies also happen to be the birthstone for July as well as the main gemstone for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, further enhancing their romantic symbolism.
The Four C’s: Determining the Value of a Ruby
Just like diamonds, the value of a ruby is determined by the ‘Four C's’: colour, cut, clarity, and carat weight.
Colour is the most significant factor, with the most desirable rubies possessing a pure, vibrant red to slightly purplish red hue. The cut can significantly enhance the ruby’s colour and overall brilliance, while clarity refers to the number of inclusions, or internal features.
Carat weight on the other hand refers to the ruby’s size, and larger rubies are rarer and more valuable – in 2015, a 25.59-carat ruby ring set a new record at auction, selling for an incredible USD $1,266,901 per carat!
Reasons to Choose a Ruby Engagement Ring
Choosing a ruby engagement ring means embracing a piece of jewellery that’s as unique and vibrant as your love. Unlike traditional diamond rings, rubies provide a splash of colour that’s certain to stand out.
The durability of the ruby is another advantage; the gem ranks 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness – just below diamonds – making them hardy enough for daily wear.
As an added bonus, rubies can also be crafted in various styles, from vintage designs to sleek modern styles – making them a perfect addition to an engagement ring.
Caring for Your Ruby Engagement Ring
Though rubies are hard and durable, they still need proper care to retain their natural beauty and lustre.
Regular cleaning with mild soapy water and a soft brush will usually help maintain the gem’s brilliance, though always remember to avoid exposing your ruby ring to harsh chemicals or extreme heat.
If your ruby ring happens to suffer any accidental bumps or knocks, we recommended having it professionally inspected for any potential damage.
Looking For the Perfect Ruby Engagement Ring?
At Martin Gear Jewellers, we offer a beautiful selection of ruby engagement rings, each with its own unique character and charm. As one of the only jewellers in Dublin with an onsite manufacturing workshop, we’re also able to create unique one-of-a-kind ruby engagement ring designs.
To learn more, or to see our collection for yourself, simply visit us at our store on 5 Mary St, Dublin 1, or give us a call on (01) 872 8726.
