Ruby is one of the most valuable gemstones. It belongs to the family of the mineral corundum. Its colour varies from pink to blood-red. It gets this colour due to the presence of chromium in it. It symbolizes fire and makes the daytime. Ruby Gemstone is associated with Sun planet and so it is worn to enhance the power of sun. Ruby is the birthstone for Cancer, date ranging from 20 June - 22 July and the gem for the 15th and 40th marriage anniversaries.

Origin of Ruby
Ruby is deemed to be the most precious of gemstones by the Bible and the ancient Sanskrit writings. Indeed, upon discovery of each Ruby crystal, the Indian Emperor would give a special royal welcome to this King of Gemstones. Ruby mines can be seen in China, Burma, South India, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan.

Appearance of Ruby
Ruby is distinguished for its bright red colour, being the most famed and fabled red gemstone. Beside for its bright colour, it is a most desirable gem due to its hardness, durability, lustre, and rarity. Transparent rubies of large sizes are even rarer than Diamonds. Ruby is the red variety of the mineral Corundum.

Colours of Ruby
Rubies are sometimes vivid and intense red. These are in huge demand and considered the most desirable gemstones. Some rubies are red with yellowish to orange tones. Some rubies are red with blue to purple tones as well.

Varieties of Ruby
There are many types of Ruby stone. Depending on the place where they are found, the rubies are named. The most famous ones are Indian Ruby, Old Burmese Ruby, Thailand Ruby, Tanzanian Ruby and Madagascar Ruby. It is said to be "lord of gems" and it is also mentioned in the Bible.

Benefits of Ruby
Rubies are said to bring serenity and they provide protection against injury. The wearing of Ruby eradicates paucity, furnishes opulence, name and fame in political arena to the wearer. It is beneficial to those who are ambitious to attain higher offices. The Ruby gemstone draws inspiration from the Sun. The Sun holds a pivotal position in the Indian culture and traditions. A nurturer, a vital energy provider, the Sun is the soul of the universe. The Ruby gemstone imbibes most of these qualities from the Sun, making it strong and much-revered gemstone by all.