Ruby jewelry embodies pure passion. This intense, vibrant, sometimes almost incandescent red has fascinated humanity like no other gemstone color. In Sanskrit, ruby is called ratnaraj, literally "king of precious stones," a title it has held for millennia. Indian maharajas revered it above diamonds, Burmese warriors inserted it under their skin before combat to become invincible, and the most famous European crowns are set with them. Geologically, ruby is a red corundum, from the same family as sapphire. It is chromium that gives it its characteristic red color, and the finest rubies – known as "pigeon's blood" – fetch prices higher than diamonds.
In lithotherapy, ruby is a stone of vitality, passion, and courage. It works on the root chakra (grounding and life force) and the heart chakra (passionate love and generosity). It is a stone that deeply energizes, rekindles the inner flame when it fades, and gives the courage to see one's convictions through. It is recommended during periods of deep fatigue, lack of motivation, or when one needs to regain momentum in their romantic or professional life.
Ruby pairs well with garnet (enhanced vitality), amethyst (energy channeling), or clear quartz (amplification). For maintenance, ruby is an extremely resistant stone with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, just behind diamond. A rinse with clear water and recharging in sunlight or moonlight are sufficient.