Metaphysical Properties of Ruby

• Element: Earth
• Birthstone: July / Aries, Cancer, Leo, Scorpio, Sagittarius
• Chakras: Root (1st)

Ruby carries the purest crystalline emanation of the Red Ray of Life and powerfully stimulates the Root Chakra and increasing the flow of life-force energy through the body. This heightened level of vitality encourages one to cast away negative feelings of hopelessness or self-doubt and to ardently move towards one's dreams and aspirations. Ruby facilitates an enthusiasm for life and assists in welcoming all the opportunities it has to offer, even in forms of the obstacles, challenges or the unknown. Ruby promotes courage and supports one in moving forward in the face of fear. It has long been regarded as a prosperity stone, especially beneficial by assisting the individual in meeting one's own needs and attracting wealth. Ruby encourages a passion for life and also stimulates one's sexual energy and desires.

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History of Ruby

Throughout most of recorded history, Ruby has been revered for its intense and gorgeous red coloration. Ruby derived its name from the Latin ruber, meaning 'red,' and in the Sanskrit language was referred to as ratnaraj, which means 'king of precious stones.' A legend in Burma spoke of becoming invincible once Ruby is inserted into the flesh. In the early eleventh century, the Persian sage al-Biruni stated that Ruby, among all the gems, has "the first place in color, beauty and rank."

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Chemical Composition of Ruby

• Hardness: 9
• Crystal System: Hexagonal (Trigonal)
• Composition: Aluminum Oxide

Ruby is the red variety of Corundum with a hardness of 9, making it the second hardest mineral after Diamond. Ruby's crystal system is hexagonal and forms in prismatic, tabular, or rhombohedral crystals, as well as bipyramidal hexagons but can also occur in granular or massive forms. Ruby derives is red color from the presence of chromium in the mineral. Another variety of Corundum is the popular blue Sapphire, which shares the chemical composition as Ruby. Ruby can form alongside Calcite, Albite, Muscovite, Spinel, Almandine Garnet, and Kyanite. Noteworthy deposits of Ruby are found in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, Brazil, Madagascar, Vietnam, India, and the USA.