Ruby is a red gemstone — the most prized variety of the mineral corundum — valued for its vivid colour, exceptional hardness and centuries of symbolism around passion, vitality and protection. As July’s birthstone, ruby has been treasured across cultures for thousands of years. This guide covers what ruby is, where its colour comes from, how to judge quality, and the difference between created and natural ruby.
Ruby is the red gem variety of corundum (aluminium oxide) — the same mineral that forms sapphire. The distinction is simply colour: red corundum is ruby, and every other colour is sapphire. Ruby’s signature red comes from traces of the element chromium within the crystal. The more chromium, the more intense the red.
Ruby is also one of the hardest gemstones on Earth, rating 9 on the Mohs hardness scale — second only to diamond. That durability is a big part of why ruby has always been favoured for jewellery meant to last and be worn every day.
Throughout history ruby has been linked to passion, courage, love and life force. In ancient India it was called Ratnaraj, the “King of Precious Stones.” Warriors in old Burma believed ruby offered protection, and European royalty wore it as a sign of power and status. These associations are part of long-standing cultural tradition rather than established fact — but they’re a big reason ruby remains such a meaningful gift today.
Ruby is also the traditional gemstone for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, symbolising enduring love. For the deeper story, read What Does the July Birthstone Mean?
Like all fine gems, ruby quality is assessed across four factors:
There are two real types of ruby, and at Irosk we offer both — the difference is origin, not authenticity:
Both are real ruby and both rate 9 on the Mohs scale. The choice comes down to budget and personal preference. Our buying guide explains how to decide: How to Choose Ruby Jewellery.
Natural ruby has historically been mined in Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Sri Lanka and parts of East Africa. Burmese rubies in particular became famous for their intense red. Today, created ruby offers that same vivid colour with a transparent, ethical origin — which is why so many modern pieces use it.
Ruby is hard and well suited to everyday wear, but the setting still needs care. Clean gently with mild soap and lukewarm water, store pieces separately so harder stones don’t scratch softer ones, and remove ruby jewellery before chores, swimming or sport. See the full routine in our Ruby Care Tips.
Explore our handcrafted ruby pieces in 925 sterling silver:
Born in July? See the full July Birthstone Jewellery collection.
Ruby is the red variety of the mineral corundum (aluminium oxide). Its red colour comes from traces of chromium. The same mineral in any other colour is called sapphire.
Ruby rates 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones — second only to diamond. This applies to both natural and created ruby.
Ruby has traditionally symbolised passion, love, courage and vitality, and was historically seen as a protective stone. These meanings come from long-standing cultural tradition.
