Originally called “Ratnaraj” in Sanskrit, which means “God of precious stones” or “leader of precious stones”, the first Ruby mining began in the now depleted mines of Sri Lanka in the 8 B.C. Having long been mystified by the Hindus and the Burmese, the different ethnic groups considered that the colour of Rubies symbolised an internal fire that could not be extinguished. Over the years, this intensely red stone has always had a strong protective and fortifying value. In 200 B.C., Chinese warriors adorned their swords with these precious stones for protection. At that time it was also possible to lay Rubies in the foundations of buildings to bring prosperity to the family.

The word “Ruby” as we know it today comes from the Latin “ruber”, which means red, the name is relatively recent as it appeared in the 13th century.

Before the arrival of scientific gemmology in the 18th century, some stones bearing the colour red were wrongly called “Ruby” such as garnets or spinels. Nowadays, this stone is easily recognisable and is found in the traditions and artistic creations of Jewellery and High Jewellery.

The birthstone for July, the Ruby is the icon of passion and love, the perfect gift for a special someone.

Originally called “Ratnaraj” in Sanskrit, which means “God of precious stones” or “leader of precious stones”, the first Ruby mining began in the now depleted mines of Sri Lanka in the 8 B.C. Having long been mystified by the Hindus and the Burmese, the different ethnic groups considered that the colour of Rubies symbolised an internal fire that could not be extinguished. Over the years, this intensely red stone has always had a strong protective and fortifying value. In 200 B.C., Chinese warriors adorned their swords with these precious stones for protection. At that time it was also possible to lay Rubies in the foundations of buildings to bring prosperity to the family.

The word “Ruby” as we know it today comes from the Latin “ruber”, which means red, the name is relatively recent as it appeared in the 13th century.

Before the arrival of scientific gemmology in the 18th century, some stones bearing the colour red were wrongly called “Ruby” such as garnets or spinels. Nowadays, this stone is easily recognisable and is found in the traditions and artistic creations of Jewellery and High Jewellery.

The birthstone for July, the Ruby is the icon of passion and love, the perfect gift for a special someone.

While a Diamond is defined solely by the 4C’s, colour, cut, carat and clarity, a Ruby is classified and priced according to its own specific characteristics. If you would like more information on diamond grading, then please read the article: How to choose a quality diamond?

Carat and colour are very important in the valuation of a Ruby. For example, in 2015, a 25.59 carat Pigeon Blood Burmese Ruby broke a world record during an auction at Sotheby’s and was sold for $30.33 million.

However, if you wish to purchase a ruby, please take great care when checking its colour and denomination. Many buyers sell yellow and pink rubies… in order to use the word Ruby, which is more luxurious and with a higher market value, but please bear in mind that the term “Ruby” refers only to an exclusively red stone.

With its intense and much sought-after colour by lovers of Fine Jewellery and precious stones, there are three hand-crafted creations paved with Rubies in the Mariusse & Bonnet Summer, Autumn and Tutty Frutty collections. All three are set with rubies, or also defined as red or orange sapphires, these colours enhance the warmth of the jewellery pieces. The stones that embellish these unique pieces are carefully selected by Philip Bonnet, co-founder of the Atelier.

To learn more about these Mariusse & Bonnet creations: Summer Ring, Autumn Ring, Tutty Frutty Ring or to have more information about our French artisanal workshop, you can email us at contact@mariusse-bonnet.com. Our entire team of jewellers is at your disposal.