Throughout history, rubies have captivated the hearts of kings, queens, and collectors alike, earning their rightful title as the “King of Gems.” This July birthstone, with its vivid crimson glow, is more than a symbol of beauty; it is a gemstone steeped in tales of passion, power, and protection that have adorned royal courts across the world for centuries.
The Black Prince’s Ruby: A Legacy in the Crown Jewels
Among the most celebrated rubies in history is the Black Prince’s Ruby, set in the Imperial State Crown of the United Kingdom. This large, cabochon red spinel (historically considered a ruby) has graced the helmets of English kings on battlefields since the 14th century, worn by Henry V during the Battle of Agincourt and later by King Charles II. Its journey through the hands of Moorish and Spanish royalty before finding its place in the British Crown Jewels is a testament to the ruby’s enduring allure and royal association.
Queen Elizabeth I and the Power of the Ruby
Queen Elizabeth I was known to wear rubies, believing them to offer protection against ill-health and to preserve her dignity and power. Rubies were also believed to darken in the face of danger, a quality that made them highly valued by monarchs who saw them as talismans on and off the battlefield. The deep red of the ruby, reminiscent of the heart’s blood, was seen as a symbol of vitality and strength, qualities essential to any ruler.
The Burmese Rubies of Queen Elizabeth II
Queen Elizabeth II’s jewellery collection also featured remarkable rubies, including the famous Burmese Ruby Tiara, crafted from a set of 96 rubies gifted by the people of Burma (Myanmar), where rubies are regarded as protective against illness and evil. This tiara, with its fiery rubies set amongst diamonds, showcases how rubies continue to hold a place of honour within royal collections even today, embodying both elegance and protective symbolism.
Why Rubies are the “King of Gems”
Rubies have long been associated with passion, courage, and love, making them an emblem of powerful emotion and unwavering strength. The rarity of high-quality rubies, especially those with a deep, pigeon-blood red hue, has made them more valuable than diamonds at times, reinforcing their title as the “King of Gems.” Throughout centuries, rubies were worn not just for their beauty but as symbols of power and protection, marking them as gemstones for those who wish to create a legacy.
Craft Your Legacy with Rubies
At Prins and Prins, we honour this royal legacy by curating exquisite ruby pieces that embody both elegance and heritage. Whether you are seeking a timeless ruby ring, a regal pendant, or a bespoke design that will become a family heirloom, our expert jewellers are ready to assist you in selecting the perfect ruby that speaks to your story.
Explore our collection of Gemstone Jewellery Cape Town and discover how a ruby can add a chapter of timeless beauty and royal heritage to your own legacy.