Ruby

Ruby is a gemstone known for its rich red color, ranging from deep crimson to vibrant pinkish-red hues. When polished, it typically exhibits a vitreous luster and has a transparent to translucent appearance. Rubies often have a well-defined crystal structure and may display natural inclusions or veining within the stone. They are commonly cut into round, oval, and cushion shapes to showcase their beauty. Overall, rubies possess a warm and inviting hue that makes them highly desirable for use in jewelry and decorative objects.

Properties

Physical & Chemical Properties

Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, characterized by its rich red color caused by traces of chromium within its chemical structure. When polished, it typically exhibits a vitreous luster and has a transparent to translucent appearance. Rubies have a hexagonal crystal structure and may display natural inclusions or imperfections within the stone. They are relatively hard gemstones, making them suitable for use in jewelry, and they have a high refractive index, resulting in exceptional brilliance and sparkle. Overall, rubies possess a unique combination of physical and chemical properties that contribute to their distinctive appearance and allure as gemstones.

Geology & Geography

Rubies are commonly found in the New Angeles Mines, nestled within the depths of the surrounding mountains. However, they are notably more abundant in the Crystal Grotto, a hidden underground chamber accessible through the intricate network of tunnels within the mines. This unique location provides the ideal conditions for forming rubies alongside other precious gemstones. The Crystal Grotto is renowned for its breathtaking display of crystals, including a significant abundance of ruby specimens, making it a prime source for these highly sought-after gemstones.

History & Usage

Everyday use

Rubies are primarily used in jewelry making in everyday life due to their vibrant red color and durability. They are commonly set into rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets to create elegant and timeless pieces cherished for their beauty and symbolic significance. Ruby jewelry adds a touch of sophistication and glamour to any outfit, making it a popular choice for formal occasions and everyday wear. Additionally, rubies may be used in decorative objects or as collectibles, such as sculptures, carvings, or ornamental pieces, to enhance the beauty of living spaces. While less common than other gemstones, rubies are highly valued for their natural beauty and symbolic meaning, making them a cherished addition to everyday life. In magic, rubies are prized for their energetic properties and association with passion, vitality, and protection. They are often used in enchanted items and potions to enhance magical abilities, promote courage, and provide psychic protection. Rubies are believed to possess a fiery energy that can ignite passion, stimulate creativity, and instill a sense of strength and determination. In magic items, rubies may be set into amulets, talismans, or wands to harness their powerful energy and protective qualities. In potions, rubies may be ground into a fine powder or infused into liquids to enhance their potency or to create potions with specific magical effects related to courage, vitality, or psychic shielding. Overall, rubies are highly regarded in magical practices for their potent energy and ability to empower and protect those who wield them. Affinities

Devotion

Happiness

Healing

High Energy

Inspiration

Leadership

Passion

Power

Prosperity

Refinement

Rubies in their raw state typically require some refinement before they can be used in jewelry or magical items. Raw rubies may appear rough, opaque, and irregular in shape in their natural form, lacking the clarity and brilliance associated with finished gemstones. Therefore, cutting and polishing raw rubies is a common practice to enhance their transparency, color, and overall appearance. This process involves shaping the ruby into facets to maximize its sparkle and fire and removing any surface imperfections or inclusions that may detract from its beauty. Once refined, rubies can be set into jewelry settings or incorporated into enchanted items, allowing their natural beauty and energetic properties to shine.

Distribution

Trade & Market

Rubies are sold by the Crystal Guild, which refines the raw stones obtained from the Miners Guild. After processing, the Crystal Guild offers rubies for sale in their various shops throughout our realm's five cities. Rubies are considered luxury gemstones due to their rarity, intense red color, and association with passion, vitality, and love. They are highly sought after in fine jewelry and are often regarded as symbols of wealth, power, and romance. As such, rubies are priced at a premium and cherished by individuals seeking to adorn themselves with exquisite and prestigious gemstones.

Storage

Rubies are stored carefully to ensure their safety and preserve their beauty. Loose rubies may be kept in individual compartments within a jewelry box or stored in small pouches to prevent scratching or damage. Larger ruby specimens or finished jewelry pieces are often stored in secure display cases or safes to protect them from theft or loss. It's important to store rubies away from other gemstones and metals to prevent scratching, and they should be kept away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures to avoid damage or discoloration.