For thousands of years, ruby has always been considered one of the most valuable gemstones. It has all it takes for a precious stone: a wonderful color, excellent hardness and a fantastic brilliance. Besides, it is an extremely rare gemstone, especially in the finer qualities.
In the Sanskrit language, ruby is called "ratnaraj”, which translate as "King of Gemstones”. Ruby was named for the Latin word 'ruber' which means red. Ruby's day is Sunday, or day of the sun, as the sun has always been related to the ruby. Oriental legends believe that rubies contain the spark of life, "a deep drop of the heart's blood of Mother Earth". Hindu priests believed that the homes of the gods were lighted by emeralds and rubies. Ancient Hindus, Burmese, and Ceylonese believed that rubies would ripen with age. They believed that sapphires were unripe rubies and that inclusions in stones meant that they were overripe. During the Middle Ages, rubies were thought to bring good health, guard against wicked thoughts, amorous desires, and disputes. Red stones including rubies were thought to cure bleedings. A stone which turned darker was thought to warn its owner of coming misfortunes, illness, or death. It has been said that the ruby's red glow comes from an internal flame, that burns eternally and cannot be extinguished, making the gift of this stone symbolic of everlasting love.  With its hardness and durability, it is a perfect engagement gem.  And if worn on the left hand, ancient lore has it that the ruby will bring good fortune to its wearer! 

What to look for in a ruby?