BIRTHSTONE PROJECT
by: Cecilia Segretario
Introduction to the ruby
Ancient and Modern Uses/Beliefs of the Ruby.
In ancient times it was believed the ruby represented desire, devotion and passion. It was also called the stone of prophecy and said the stone would darken when the person bearing it was in some form of danger. In ancient times, common uses were jewelry, antidotes for poison and rubbing the stone on your skin to said "give it more youth". In modern times uses aren't much different, it is still used in jewelry. In modern times it is also commonly used in unique carvings, bowls or vases.
Facts About The Ruby
•The hardness on Moh's Hardness Scale is 9.0
•The ruby has no cleavage
•The ruby fractures uneven or conchodial
•It has a hexagonal or corundum crystalline structure
•The chemical formula is aluminum oxide with chromium (A1O3:Cr)
•The density is 3.9-4.1 g/cm3
•Finally, the ruby has a vitreous luster.
The Very Unique Ruby
The ruby can mainly be found in the following places
-Kenya, Africa
-Madagascar, Africa
-Thailand, Asia
Also, various places in Greenland and Australia. The ruby can also be found in the U.S, however that would be very rare. The availability of the gemstone over all is quite rare.
The ruby can be found in the following colors
-red
-brown-ish
-purple-ish
-pink-ish
Though you'll most commonly find the ruby in the color red.