Ruby, the birthstone of July.

The name of the gemstone is derived from the Latin ‘ruber’ meaning red. Ruby’s intense crimson colours have mystified, entranced and romanced people since it was first found over 2,500 years ago. Sri Lankan Rubies may have been available to the Greeks and Romans as early as 480 BC. Ruby was once known to the ancient Indians as 'ratnaraj', the king of gems, they believed Rubies could endow a long life.

 

Rubies along with Diamonds, Emeralds and Sapphires are the most well-known gemstones. Rubies and Sapphires are colour varieties of the mineral Corundum (crystalline aluminium oxide). Although they came from the ‘same family’, in its purest form the mineral corundum is colourless. Trace elements that become part of the mineral’s crystal structure cause variations in its colour. Chromium is the trace element that causes ruby’s red colour. Trace elements in gemstones are like fingerprints to a human, in the lab they will be able to identify where the stone came from and possibly when it was formed. If you have uncertainty about your gemstones, you can always send them to a Gem-A or GIA accredited gemology laboratory. They are both the world’s most trusted names in diamond grading and gem identification.

 

Rubies can command the highest per-carat price of any coloured stone. This makes rubies one of the most important gems in the coloured stone market. Rubies that weigh over 10 carats can also sell for much more than a similar-sized diamond. Natural, untreated rubies often have inclusions which are perfectly normal and generally well-tolerated. Inclusions are not viewed as a good factor in the gemstone industry. However, unlike diamonds and other gems, small inclusions enhance the beauty of rubies, making them look more captivating and velvety. 

 

All ikku’s rubies are 100% natural and untreated, sustainably sourced and with the finest quality. For the July special we have picked our beautiful Ruby Diamond Flower collection, an ‘almost' pigeon’s blood round cut ruby decorated by brilliant diamonds available in both pendant, necklace and ring.

 

Ruby Flower Pendant - 18k yellow gold with ruby and brilliant diamonds - £280

Ruby Flower Pendant (with Necklace)- 18k yellow gold with ruby and brilliant diamonds - £530

Ruby Flower Ring - 18k yellow gold with ruby and brilliant diamonds- £310