Why Ruby Is Known as the King of Gemstones: History and Significance
Ruby is one of the world's most sought-after gemstones. It is considered one of the most beautiful gemstones and has long been revered as the King of Gemstones because of its unique red color and outstanding rarity. Through time, ruby has held great value to kings, warriors, and collectors alike.
Throughout history, ruby has served as a symbol of authority, bravery, affluence, and protection from God. Ruby has adorned crowns, ceremonial items, and religious artifacts of various ancient cultures. Due to the bright red color, durability, and deep historical significance, ruby is still one of the most valuable gemstone categories in the global marketplace today.
Ancient History of Ruby Gemstones
The history of ruby gemstones goes back thousands of years. During several Ancient civilizations, such as India, Burma (Myanmar), China, and Sri Lanka the people treasured rubies as sacred and powerful stones. In Sanskrit texts also this powerful gem is called as , Ratnaraj which means the King of Precious Stone. This highlights the superior status of this lovely gem among all gemstones.
In ancient India, rulers offered natural rubies to the deities as a means of gaining prosperity and blessings from the gods. Royalty often wore ruby stones in the ceremonial Crown and they also used to set them inside their weapons. In ancient times, wars were a common element in Burmese culture. Therefore, the Warriors of this place used to wear ruby jewelry - because they believed it made them brave and invincible in battle. Some even embedded rubies into their shields and/or armor in order to give themselves added strength and courage while fighting.
These beliefs strengthened and reinforced the belief that rubies were the most powerful and important among the different types of gemstones.
Ruby in Vedic Astrology and Spiritual Significance
In Vedic astrology, the ruby gemstone is associated with the planet Sun or Surya Grah. The Sun is the planet that governs the human qualities of authority, confidence, vitality, and leadership. Because of this strong planetary connection, ruby is considered one of the most powerful gemstones in astrological traditions.
It is believed that wearing a natural ruby stone (Manik) can strengthen the influence of the Sun in a person’s horoscope. Astrologers often recommend ruby gemstones to individuals seeking success in leadership roles, politics, government positions, and business ventures.
Ruby is also believed to enhance self-confidence, courage, reputation, and personal power, making it a highly respected gemstone in spiritual and astrological practices.
Ruby’s Symbolism: Passion, Courage, and Prestige
Ruby gemstones are widely recognized for their rich symbolism. The vibrant red color of ruby has long been associated with passion, love, strength, and ambition. Because of this intense color, ruby is often seen as a gemstone that represents the heart, energy, and life force.
In many cultures, ruby gemstones were believed to protect their wearer from negative energies and bring good fortune, success, and happiness. Royal families and noble leaders considered ruby to be a stone that enhanced charisma, determination, and personal authority.
Even today, ruby remains a powerful symbol of luxury, prestige, and emotional strength, which further strengthens its reputation as the King of Gemstones.
Ruby in Modern Jewelry and Luxury Collections
In modern times, ruby gemstones continue to dominate the world of luxury jewelry. High-quality natural rubies are extremely rare, making them highly valuable among collectors and gemstone enthusiasts.
Ruby gemstones are commonly used in rings, pendants, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces, often set in gold or platinum to highlight their brilliance. Many luxury jewelry houses design exclusive collections featuring ruby gemstones because of their timeless beauty and royal appeal.Ruby engagement rings have also become increasingly popular among couples who want a unique and meaningful alternative to traditional diamond rings.
The price of natural Ruby (Manik) gemstones depends mainly on origin, color quality, clarity, and carat weight. The most valuable rubies display a vivid “Pigeon Blood Red” color and are usually found in Burma (Myanmar). In India, ruby prices generally range from ₹3,000 to ₹15,000 per carat for African and Mozambique rubies, ₹20,000 to ₹80,000 per carat for good-quality Sri Lankan rubies, and ₹1,00,000 to ₹5,00,000+ per carat for rare Burmese rubies. Natural untreated rubies are significantly more expensive than treated stones. Buyers are always advised to purchase lab-certified ruby gemstones to ensure authenticity and long-term value.
Ruby is a timeless gem that has represented great value and prestige across the globe. Their beautiful colour is what makes them one of the most aspirational gemstones. Rubies are coveted stones due to their rarity, the beautiful red hue of their stones, and their cultural significance. Their colour is often described as “the King of gemstones” due to their having been used by many cultures to create jewellery and for other decorative purposes since antiquity.
