The term "ruby diamond" can be interpreted in two primary ways: referring to a rare red diamond, or more commonly, to jewelry that combines both rubies and diamonds. While a "ruby diamond" is not a single gemstone that is both a ruby and a diamond, understanding these interpretations provides clarity on its meaning.
1. Fancy Red Diamonds
In the context of a single gemstone, "ruby diamond" could refer to a fancy red diamond. These are among the rarest and most valuable diamonds in the world.
- Distinct Gemstones: It's important to differentiate. A ruby is a red variety of the mineral corundum, known for its vibrant crimson hue. A diamond, on the other hand, is composed of pure carbon and is renowned for its exceptional hardness and brilliance.
- Color Origin: While rubies get their red color from chromium impurities, fancy red diamonds owe their color to structural defects in their crystal lattice during formation, not from chemical impurities. This makes their occurrence incredibly rare.
- Rarity: Natural fancy red diamonds are so scarce that many gemologists have never seen one. They are typically small in size but command astronomical prices due to their extreme rarity.
2. Jewelry Featuring Rubies and Diamonds
The most common and practical interpretation of "ruby diamond" refers to a piece of jewelry that incorporates both rubies and diamonds. This combination is highly prized for its aesthetic appeal and rich symbolism.
When rubies and diamonds are set together, they create a striking contrast and complement each other beautifully. The fiery red of the ruby is often accentuated by the sparkling brilliance of colorless diamonds, resulting in designs that are both elegant and captivating.
Symbolism of Combined Gemstones
Each gemstone brings its unique symbolic meaning, which is often enhanced when they are paired:
- Rubies: The ruby gemstone symbolizes love, passion, vitality, and strength. It is also believed to bring good luck, success, and prosperity. Its deep red color has long been associated with the heart and life force.
- Diamonds: Diamonds traditionally symbolize eternity, purity, invincibility, and enduring strength. They represent unbreakable bonds and everlasting love.
Together, rubies and diamonds in a piece of jewelry represent a powerful blend of fervent emotion and unwavering commitment. They can signify:
- Eternal Love and Passion: The passion of the ruby combined with the eternal nature of the diamond.
- Strength and Vitality: A representation of robust health, strong relationships, and a vibrant spirit.
- Success and Prosperity: A symbol of good fortune and achievement, beautifully embodied in a lasting form.
Popular Applications
Jewelry combining rubies and diamonds is popular in various forms:
- Engagement Rings: Offering a vibrant alternative or complement to a traditional all-diamond ring, symbolizing deep passion and everlasting commitment.
- Anniversary Gifts: Particularly for milestone anniversaries, such as the 15th and 40th, where ruby is the traditional gemstone.
- Fashion Jewelry: Necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and pendants featuring intricate designs that highlight both stones.
- Heirloom Pieces: Often passed down through generations, representing enduring love and family legacy.
Comparison of Rubies and Diamonds
To further clarify, here's a brief comparison of these two magnificent gemstones:
| Feature | Ruby | Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Corundum (Aluminum Oxide) with Chromium | Pure Carbon |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9 | 10 (the hardest known natural mineral) |
| Primary Color | Red | Typically colorless, but fancy colors exist |
| Symbolism | Love, passion, vitality, strength, good luck, success, prosperity | Eternity, purity, strength, invincibility |
| Rarity | Fine quality large rubies are very rare | High-quality large diamonds are rare, fancy red diamonds are extremely rare |
Ultimately, "ruby diamond" most frequently refers to exquisite jewelry that artfully unites the rich, passionate red of the ruby with the brilliant, enduring sparkle of the diamond, creating pieces that are both visually stunning and deeply meaningful.
