Crystal of the month: RUBY
RUBY
Chemical Makeup: Al2O3
Crystalline structure: Trigonal
Colors: Red--bright red to dark reddish brown
Hardness: 9
Localities: Burma, Thailand, Cambodia, Afghanistan, Brazil, India, Colombia, Australia, Namibia, Japan, Scotland
Birthstone: July
Astrology: Represents the Sun. Astrological birthstone for Capricorn.
Associated Chakra(s): Root & Heart Chakras
Metaphysical properties: Nurturing, Illuminating
- Ruby balances the root and heart chakras.
- Ignites a light within you, illuminating the darkness on all levels and offering a direct connection with your heart’s wisdom and values.
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Stimulates love & nurturing energy and discourages violence and discord.
- An excellent stone for using in mediation or resolving disputes, encouraging gentleness and promoting mental concentration and the application of spiritual guidance.
- A strongly protective stone, providing a shield from psychic attack and the energy of gossip.
- Assists you in resisting the idea of victimhood, encouraging confidence and joy.
- Protects against unhappiness and upsetting dreams, brings lucid dreaming and encourages you to follow your bliss in the waking world.
- Provides a strong creative energy, inspiring you to make the changes your heart is longing for in order to live in a happy state of appreciation for the gift of life.
- Treats fevers and disorders related to blood flow through the heart.
- Assists in detoxification and softens the effects of caffeine, counterbalancing the effects of stimulants.
- Promotes healthy growth and development in utero.
History: The Sanskrit word for Ruby is Ratnaraj, which means “king of precious stones.” Ruby is one of the most historically significant colored gemstones, being referenced in the Bible four times, described in detail by Pliny in his work “Natural History,” and believed by the ancient Hindus to grant rebirth as emperors when offered to the god Krishna.
In 1960, Rubies were used to help build the first working laser. Both natural and synthetic rubies are still used to make lasers, as well as medical instruments and watches.
Interesting facts: Rubies are considered “Precious Gems,” a category reserved only for diamonds, sapphires, emeralds and rubies. However, the only difference between a ruby and a sapphire is it’s color--both are corundum minerals.