Throughout history, rubies have been one of the most sought-after gemstones due to their vibrant red color and incredible rarity. These precious stones have been revered by civilizations around the world for their beauty and symbolism. From ancient times to the present day, rubies have been treasured and coveted by kings, queens, and collectors alike. In this article, we will explore some of the most famous ruby stones throughout history and the stories behind them.
1. The Black Prince’s Ruby
One of the most famous rubies in history is the Black Prince’s Ruby. This large, uncut stone is set in the Imperial State Crown of England and has a history that dates back to the 14th century. The ruby was originally owned by Pedro the Cruel, King of Castile, who was defeated in battle by Edward, the Black Prince of England. The Black Prince took the ruby as a spoil of war and it has been passed down through the British royal family ever since.
2. The Rosser Reeves Star Ruby
Another famous ruby is the Rosser Reeves Star Ruby, which is considered one of the largest and finest star rubies in the world. This beautiful stone weighs 138.7 carats and displays a six-pointed star when viewed under a light source. The ruby was named after its former owner, Rosser Reeves, an American advertising executive. The Rosser Reeves Star Ruby is now housed in the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
3. The Sunrise Ruby
The Sunrise Ruby is a stunning 25.59-carat Burmese ruby that is considered one of the most valuable rubies in the world. This exceptional stone has a deep red color and is set in a ring surrounded by diamonds. The Sunrise Ruby was auctioned at Sotheby’s in 2015 for a record-breaking price of $30 million, making it one of the most expensive rubies ever sold.
4. The Liberty Bell Ruby
The Liberty Bell Ruby is a unique ruby that was carved into the shape of the Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence. This one-of-a-kind stone weighs 8,500 carats and is considered one of the largest rubies in the world. The Liberty Bell Ruby is currently on display at the Delaware Museum of Natural History.
5. The Chhatrapati Manik Ruby
The Chhatrapati Manik Ruby is a legendary ruby that is said to have been owned by Indian royalty for centuries. This precious stone weighs 20 carats and has a deep red color that is highly prized. The Chhatrapati Manik Ruby is now housed in the Indian Museum in Kolkata and is considered a national treasure.
6. The Carmen Lucia Ruby
The Carmen Lucia Ruby is a stunning 23.1-carat Burmese ruby that was named after its former owner, Carmen Lucia Buck. This exceptional stone is set in a platinum ring surrounded by diamonds and is considered one of the most beautiful rubies in the world. The Carmen Lucia Ruby was auctioned at Christie’s in 2015 for a price of $10 million.
7. The Neelanjali Ruby
The Neelanjali Ruby is a rare and unique ruby that was discovered in India in 1990. This exquisite stone weighs 13.82 carats and has a deep red color with a hint of blue. The Neelanjali Ruby is now housed in the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.
8. The Incomparable Ruby
The Incomparable Ruby is a magnificent 890-carat ruby that is considered one of the largest rubies in the world. This breathtaking stone is set in a necklace surrounded by diamonds and is valued at over $100 million. The Incomparable Ruby is currently on display at the Natural History Museum in London.
9. The Graff Ruby
The Graff Ruby is a rare and exceptional ruby that was discovered in Mozambique in 2008. This stunning stone weighs 8.62 carats and has a vivid red color that is highly prized by collectors. The Graff Ruby was purchased by jeweler Laurence Graff for a record-breaking price of $8.6 million.
10. The Hope Ruby
The Hope Ruby is a remarkable ruby that was owned by the Hope Diamond family for over 100 years. This exquisite stone weighs 32.08 carats and has a deep red color that is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. The Hope Ruby is now housed in the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C.
In conclusion, rubies have captivated people for centuries with their beauty, rarity, and symbolism. These famous ruby stones throughout history are a testament to the enduring allure of these precious gemstones. From the Black Prince’s Ruby to the Sunrise Ruby, each of these stones has a unique story to tell and continues to be treasured by collectors and enthusiasts around the world.
FAQs:
Q: Are rubies rare?
A: Yes, rubies are one of the rarest gemstones in the world, with high-quality stones commanding high prices.
Q: Where are rubies found?
A: Rubies are found in several countries around the world, including Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Mozambique.
Q: What is the most valuable ruby?
A: The Sunrise Ruby is considered one of the most valuable rubies in the world, with a record-breaking price of $30 million.
Q: What is the symbolism of rubies?
A: Rubies are often associated with love, passion, and power, making them popular choices for romantic gifts and royal jewelry.
Q: How can I care for my ruby jewelry?
A: To keep your ruby jewelry looking its best, avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and direct sunlight. Clean your ruby jewelry with a soft cloth and mild soap to maintain its beauty.
