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Scattered assortment of loose ruby gemstones in various cuts and sizes on a white fabric background.
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Ruby’s meaning, styling, and care

The meaning of Ruby

Rosecliff Ruby Stackable ring resting on a Grand Ruby ring with a Bayberry 3 Ruby bracelet in the foreground.

Ruby – gemstone knowledge

Ruby is a precious gemstone from the corundum family (as is its sister gem, Sapphire). Its name comes from the Latin word ruber, meaning "red." Its rich red hue comes from trace amounts of chromium, giving it a color range from pinkish red to shades of wine. Traditionally, the most prized color is called "pigeon's blood" – deep, true red with just a hint of blue.

Woman wearing a Bayberry 3 Ruby necklace featuring three 4mm briolette cut, bezel set gemstones on a 1.17mm cable chain.

Ancient peoples considered Ruby to be a protective charm, and wore it for good luck.

Where is Ruby found?

Most deposits are found in southeast Asia; Myanmar produces nearly 90% of the world's supply. Sri Lanka is another major producer of the stone (in fact, the country is also known as Ratna Dweepa, meaning "gem island.") The stone is also found in other countries, including Australia, Cambodia, Thailand, Madagascar, and the United States.

At HAVERHILL, we proudly use sustainably grown Rubies, because they're gentle on the earth, consistent in their vibrant red color, have few to no inclusions, and are well cut.

Warren Ruby ring in 14k yellow gold featuring a 10x8mm emerald cut, bezel set center stone, and a Newport Ruby necklace.

Fun facts about Ruby

Woman wearing a Providence 3 Ruby necklace featuring three 2x4mm baguette cut, prong set gemstones on a 1.17mm cable chain.

How do I care for Ruby jewelry?

How do I clean Ruby jewelry?

Maintain the beauty of your jewelry by keeping it clean. Use a non-abrasive jewelry cleaner or mild, dye-free dish soap and water. Let the jewelry soak in a small bowl for a few minutes, then brush gently with a soft toothbrush. Be sure to rinse it completely, and blot dry with a chamois cloth.

Pair of 14k yellow gold Greenwich Solitaire earrings, each featuring one 4mm briolette cut ruby and one 2.1mm diamond on top.

How do I wear Ruby jewelry?

The alternating stones of the Bayberry Grand & Petite 11 Ruby Necklace create a lovely visual statement. Colorful, lightweight, and amazingly versatile.

Woman wearing a Bayberry Grand & Classic 11 Ruby necklace featuring alternating 4mm & 6mm briolette cut, bezel set gemstones.
Two Rosecliff Ruby Stackable rings, one with alternating diamonds, featuring eleven 2mm faceted round cut gemstones.
Warren ring featuring a 10x8mm emerald cut, bezel set ruby center stone, and sixteen 2mm prong set ruby accent stones.
Wrist wearing a personalized Adelaide 3 Pavé Link bracelet featuring 16x6.4mm links encrusted with twenty-eight gemstones.

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FAQ

Is Ruby a good-luck stone?

Yes, it has long been considered a powerful good-luck charm. Wear it to celebrate your own strength and attract prosperity into your life.

What's the difference between Ruby and Garnet?

Ruby, the birthstone for July, is a precious gem from the corundum family of minerals. Garnet, January's birthstone, is a semi-precious gem that's a silicate mineral. Ruby, which rates a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, can range in color from pinkish-red to deep wine; Garnet, 6.5–7.5 on the Mohs scale, is red with a slightly warm (orange or brown) undertone.

Should I wear Ruby only if it’s my birthstone?

Not at all. People wear gemstones for many reasons, not just because they’re the birthstone for the month they were born. You may choose to wear a stone because you feel a connection to the color, because the traditional meaning resonates with you, or because it reminds you of someone you love, like a child, friend, or a loved one who has passed away. Jewelry is extremely personal, and you should feel free to wear the gemstones that speak to you.

Does this gem have healing properties?

According to legend, the gem can enhance a person's energy, lighten their mood, and heal a broken heart.

Can this gem go in water?

Yes, it can. You can wear it while showering, swimming, and exercising.