During ancient times, ruby was deemed more valuable than diamond and it was seen as a token of wealth, power, safety and passion.

In Ancient China (200BC) rubies were traded along China's North Silk Road as a precious commodity. Legend has it that the Chinese Emperor Kublai Khan offered to trade his whole city in exchange for a large ruby. Chinese aristocrats used Ruby as a talisman of good fortune and protection, adorning armour with them before going into battle. Rubies were buried under the foundations of Ancient Chinese buildings to ensure good luck and wealth.

In India, the Ancient Hindus made offerings of ruby to Lord Krishna as it was said that you would be reborn as a powerful emperor. They referred to ruby as Ratnaraj, meaning "King of Precious Stones" in Sanskrit, and it was believed that a fire lived within the gemstone that was powerful enough to boil water. In Hindu mythology, it was said that rubies were the sacred fruit of the sacred Kalpa Tree.

Ruby was associated with blood in Ancient Myanmar and was the "stone of soldiers". It was said to make soldiers invincible and provide protection against wounds. Throughout history, it has been noted that rubies should be worn on the left-hand side, however the Ancient Burmese believed they must insert the rubies into their flesh in order to gain the full benefits of this gemstone.

The Ancient Greeks and Romans named this gemstone "Ruby", originating from the Latin word "rubber", meaning red. They too believed that ruby had a fire within that could boil water and melt wax. They associated ruby with Mars and the God Ares (God of War).

Ruby is a powerful gemstone, associated with both the base and heart chakras.

Physical
Ruby is said to be a "blood stone", helping to strengthen the cardiovascular system, increase circulation, treat heart disease and regulate menstrual flow. It is also said to be a powerful cleanser of the blood, helping to fight infections and reduce fevers. Ruby is known to aid treatment for gynaecological conditions. Ruby is said to stimulate function of the adrenal glands, kidneys and spleen.

Emotional
Ruby is believed to transmute anger and pain into love, and to encourage one to share loving energy and not dwell on painful experiences. It increases one's courage and protects those who have sensitive natures. Ruby encourages one to stand up for other beings, including animals. It is said to reduce the effects of body dysmorphia and bring self-love to its owner.

Spiritual
Ruby is an excellent tool for grounding to the physical earth through the base chakra. It is said to increase one's sensitivity to spiritual energy and aid with manifestation.

This fiery gemstone has remained a timeless treasure, and is the ultimate symbol of prestige and passion.