Most people associate the word “sapphire” with the color blue. Indeed, sapphire is considered to be the most precious of all blue gemstones. But sapphires exist in many colors.

July brings hot heat and a fiery red gemstone – the precious ruby. Named the gemstone of the Sun, these sweltering red stones are a reminder of the warm, carefree months of summer.

The gem of desire, courage, passion and emotion – the ruby, considered a “precious” gemstone, has been coveted for centuries as Max Bauer wrote in 1894, “A clear, transparent, and faultless ruby of a uniform red color is at the present time the most valuable precious stone known.”

Some believe the idea of metaphysical properties in gems was first cultivated in the ancient cultures of Babylonia and India where astrologers believed gems were filled with magic and spiritual powers. In early societies a stones’ healing and mystical properties had more meaning for its wearer than its aesthetic qualities. Celestial planets were linked to specific stones and this ultimately led to the foundation of our Western birth month, zodiac sign and gemstone traditions.

One of the most prized gemstones throughout history is ruby. Ruby is from the mineral family of corundum. Most people do not know that ruby is the sister of sapphire, which is also corundum. However, only red corundum is considered ruby. Prior to the nineteenth century, garnets and spinels were often confused with rubies. In fact, some of the famous ‘rubies’ in the British Crown Jewels are actually spinels!

Sapphire has a very spiritual history. It is said that God gave Moses the Ten Commandments on tablets of sapphire. The divinity of this stone has led to it symbolizing faith, commitment and remembrance. Royalty and high priests throughout history have adorned themselves with sapphires. In Europe, sapphire was a traditional engagement stone. Remember Princess Diana’s gorgeous ring? If you have a sapphire you certainly will not feel blue!

A loupe, pronounced loop, is any small magnifying glass mounted for hand use, that allows the user to take a closer look at a gemstone.