Rubies were considered more valuable than diamonds during ancient times.  Even today, rubies are arguably the most popular gemstone. Rubies have always been the favored stone of royalty across the globe.  All royalty adorns the impeccable ruby.  It is believed that the Emperor of China used rubies as lights in his palace. Soldiers in historical Burma injected rubies into their skin because they believed it would save them from dying in battle. Rubies are also known for fertility.

Color is the primary consideration while evaluating the quality of rubies. The most desired variety in rubies is a clear and vibrant red color. Like most gemstones, rubies are not without inclusions.  Although clarity plays a role in determining the quality of rubies, color is still the primary valuation benchmark.  However, the color choice in rubies depends on personal preference for a particular shade or hue.  Since even small rubies are valuable, the larger ones are off the charts.  You can also mix up your collection of rubies with a combination of dangle earrings and stud earrings.

The most famous rubies come from Myanmar, Burma.  However, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Tanzania, Pakistan, Nepal, India and Afghanistan all have ruby mining origins.  However, it is crucial that you buy from a trusted source so that you can count on the quality of the rubies themselves.  Even if you are buying ruby drop earrings or ruby stud earrings, you need to be certain of the source.

The beautiful red color in a ruby is acquired after the stone undergoes heat therapy.  It is only after rubies undergo treatment that they become breathtakingly beautiful stones. That permanent form of treatment keeps the color in a ruby in place for years to come. Another form of treatment used for rubies is diffusion. With the aid of chemicals exposing the surface to heat, the desired color of the ruby comes to fruition.  Apart from star rubies, the diffusion treatment is not recommended.  For all other ruby gemstones, heat treatment is the preferred route.

The color red inspires strong feelings that denote the essence of life and love. Rubies make wonderful jewelry pieces. These brilliant gemstones are highly romantic and are great for gifts.  Rubies can be found in rings, earrings or pendants. While diamond earrings make great accessories for special evenings and red carpets, ruby earrings prove to be very practical for everyday wear by adding a splash of color to any outfit.

Or if a night on the town is your preference, try a set of brilliant red ruby earrings.  But if you are only going to your place of work, you might try a set of silver earrings with a ruby centerpiece.   Either way, rubies have continued to be a favorite gemstone through generations and continue their rich and royal legacy today.