Rubies, with their captivating red hue and enduring allure, have long been cherished as symbols of passion and vitality in jewelry. However, when it comes to incorporating them into daily wear, several factors must be considered to determine their practicality. This article explores the suitability of rubies for everyday wear, considering their durability, maintenance requirements, fashion versatility, cultural significance, and overall investment value.
Understanding Ruby Durability and Hardness
Rubies are among the most durable gemstones available, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, just below diamonds, which are rated at 10. This exceptional hardness makes rubies highly resistant to scratches and abrasions, a crucial attribute for any gemstone intended for daily use. The inherent toughness of rubies ensures that they can maintain their brilliance and luster even after prolonged exposure to the rigors of everyday activities.
Assessing Wearability in Different Settings
The suitability of rubies for everyday wear also depends significantly on the setting in which they are placed. The choice of setting can either enhance or compromise the gemstone’s durability and safety. When set in high-quality metals such as platinum or gold, rubies are securely held in place, reducing the risk of damage or loss. Bezel settings, which encircle the gemstone with a continuous band of metal, offer particularly good protection against impacts and knocks, making them an excellent choice for individuals with active lifestyles.
Prong settings, while more common and often preferred for their aesthetic appeal, expose more of the gemstone’s surface and thus require more cautious handling. However, with careful use, prong-set rubies can also be suitable for daily wear, provided the setting is regularly checked for signs of wear and tear.
Practical Considerations: Maintenance and Care
Maintaining the beauty and longevity of rubies requires regular and thoughtful care. Periodic cleaning is essential to remove dirt, oils, and other residues that can accumulate on the gemstone’s surface, dulling its sparkle. The best way to clean ruby jewelry is with a soft brush, mild soapy water, and a gentle touch. It’s important to rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth to avoid leaving water spots.
Rubies should be kept away from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials that can damage the gemstone or its setting. It’s advisable to remove ruby jewelry when engaging in activities such as house cleaning, swimming in chlorinated pools, or using beauty products containing chemicals that could potentially harm the gemstone.
Storing ruby jewelry properly is also crucial. Each piece should be stored separately in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratches and damage from contact with other pieces of jewelry. Regular professional inspections can help ensure that the settings remain secure and the gemstones retain their brilliance.
Cultural Significance and Symbolism
Rubies are not only valued for their physical properties but also for their rich cultural significance and symbolism. In many cultures, rubies are believed to bring good fortune, passion, and protection to the wearer. This cultural significance adds an emotional layer to wearing rubies daily, making them not just accessories but also symbols of personal beliefs and traditions.
In ancient times, rubies were often associated with royalty and power. They were believed to have protective properties, shielding warriors in battle and ensuring victory. Today, rubies continue to symbolize love, energy, and life force, making them meaningful gifts for loved ones and powerful personal talismans.
Fashion Versatility and Styling Tips
One of the standout features of rubies is their deep red color, which complements a wide range of outfits and occasions. Whether paired with formal attire for a sophisticated look or worn with casual wear to add a touch of elegance, rubies can elevate any ensemble. Their timeless appeal makes them suitable for both day and evening wear, offering versatility that matches various fashion sensibilities.
Rubies can be incorporated into various types of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Each type of jewelry offers different advantages for everyday wear. For example, ruby rings can be worn as statement pieces, while ruby earrings add a touch of glamour to any outfit. Ruby necklaces and bracelets can be layered with other pieces for a chic, contemporary look.
See Also: What Are the Benefits of Red Ruby: Everything You Need to Know
When styling rubies, consider the overall color palette of your wardrobe. Rubies pair beautifully with neutral tones such as black, white, and gray, as well as complementary colors like green and blue. They also look stunning with gold and silver, providing a striking contrast that enhances their vibrant red hue.
Pricing Considerations and Investment Value
Rubies are considered one of the most valuable gemstones, often commanding high prices due to their rarity and quality. The value of a ruby is influenced by several factors, including color intensity, clarity, cut, and origin. Burmese rubies, known for their rich, pigeon blood red color, are particularly prized and can fetch premium prices.
When purchasing ruby jewelry for daily wear, it’s advisable to choose pieces that strike a balance between quality and affordability. Investing in high-quality rubies ensures that the jewelry will retain its beauty and value over time. However, it’s also important to select pieces that fit within your budget and lifestyle.
Rubies are also seen as valuable investments, with prices steadily increasing over the years. High-quality rubies can appreciate in value, making them not only beautiful additions to your jewelry collection but also sound financial investments. When considering rubies as an investment, it’s essential to purchase from reputable sources and obtain proper certification to ensure authenticity and quality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, rubies are excellent choices for everyday wear due to their durability, aesthetic appeal, and cultural significance. With proper care and maintenance, ruby jewelry can retain its beauty and value over time, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking elegance and symbolism in their daily accessories.
By understanding the durability, maintenance requirements, cultural significance, and fashion versatility of rubies, individuals can confidently incorporate these stunning gemstones into their everyday wardrobe, enjoying both their aesthetic beauty and intrinsic value.
While rubies require some care to maintain their brilliance, their durability and timeless appeal make them a worthy choice for daily wear. Whether as a personal talisman, a fashion statement, or a valuable investment, rubies offer a unique combination of beauty, resilience, and meaning that can enhance any daily ensemble.