Wearing jewelry isn’t just about adorning oneself with beautiful accessories; it’s also a way to express personal style and carry symbolic significance. The ruby pendant, with its deep red hue and rich history, is a captivating choice that embodies both elegance and meaning. This article serves as a comprehensive guide on how to wear a ruby pendant, exploring various styling tips, the cultural and metaphysical significance of rubies, and how to care for this precious gem.
Understanding the Ruby’s Significance
Before delving into the art of wearing a ruby pendant, it’s essential to grasp the historical and symbolic significance of this gemstone. Rubies have been treasured for centuries in various cultures around the world. In many ancient civilizations, rubies were associated with power, passion, and protection. Their fiery red color was often linked to the blood that flowed through the veins, giving rise to beliefs in their ability to invigorate the body and mind.
In modern times, the ruby remains a symbol of love, courage, and vitality. It is also the birthstone for July, making a ruby pendant an ideal gift for individuals born in that month. Additionally, rubies are often given as presents for milestone anniversaries, particularly the 40th anniversary, as they signify enduring passion and commitment.
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What is a Ruby Pendant?
A ruby pendant is a jewelry piece featuring a ruby gemstone as its centerpiece. Rubies, known for their deep red color, symbolize love, passion, and vitality. The pendant typically includes a metal setting that holds the ruby securely and may have intricate designs or simple elegance. Ruby pendants can be worn for various occasions, from casual to formal, and can be paired with different outfits to enhance personal style. These pendants often carry cultural and metaphysical significance, believed to promote emotional well-being, protection, and creativity. Caring for a ruby pendant involves gentle cleaning, proper storage, and occasional professional inspection to maintain its beauty.
How Ruby Pendants Are Made?
Ruby pendants are typically made through a process that involves selecting high-quality rubies, designing the pendant setting, and then crafting the final piece. Here’s a general overview of how ruby pendants are made:
1. Selecting the Ruby:
The process begins with selecting a high-quality ruby gemstone. Rubies are precious gemstones known for their deep red color and rarity. The quality of the ruby, including factors like color, clarity, cut, and carat weight, will significantly impact the final appearance and value of the pendant.
2. Designing the Pendant Setting:
Once a suitable ruby is chosen, a designer or jewelry artisan creates a pendant design. This design will determine how the ruby will be showcased and how the pendant as a whole will look. The design process includes selecting the type of metal for the setting (such as gold, silver, platinum), deciding on the overall style and shape of the pendant, and planning any additional gemstones or decorative elements that might be included.
3. Creating a Wax Model or Computer-Aided Design (CAD):
Depending on the complexity of the design, a wax model might be hand-carved or a computer-aided design (CAD) might be created. This step helps visualize the final pendant and ensures that all details are well-defined before proceeding to the next steps.
4. Casting the Pendant:
If a wax model is created, it is used to create a mold for casting. The chosen metal for the pendant setting (e.g., gold) is melted and poured into the mold. Once the metal cools and solidifies, it takes on the shape of the pendant design.
5. Setting the Ruby:
The jeweler carefully sets the ruby into the pendant’s metal setting. This process involves securing the ruby in place using prongs, bezels, or other types of settings. The goal is to securely hold the ruby while also allowing maximum light to enter the gemstone to enhance its brilliance.
6. Packaging and Presentation:
The finished ruby pendant is then carefully packaged for presentation or sale. This may involve placing it in a jewelry box or pouch to protect it from scratches and damage.
The process of making a ruby pendant involves a combination of artistic creativity, skilled craftsmanship, and attention to detail. Each step contributes to creating a unique and beautiful piece of jewelry that showcases the beauty of the ruby gemstone.
Choosing the Right Ruby Pendant
When selecting a ruby pendant, consider factors such as the quality of the gemstone, the pendant’s design, and the chain it will be paired with. A high-quality ruby should exhibit a rich, deep red color without visible flaws or inclusions. The gemstone’s cut should enhance its brilliance and allow light to dance within the stone. As for the design of the pendant, choose one that resonates with your personal style while complementing your wardrobe.
When it comes to the chain, opt for a metal that complements the ruby’s warm hue. Gold, particularly yellow and rose gold, tends to pair exceptionally well with rubies, enhancing their vibrancy. A delicate chain can offer an understated look, while a bolder chain can make a statement. Ultimately, the goal is to achieve harmony between the pendant and the chain, creating a balanced and visually appealing ensemble.
Styling Tips for Ruby Pendants
Here are styling tips when wearing a ruby pendant:
1. Daytime Elegance:
During the day, a ruby pendant can add a touch of elegance to your outfit without being overpowering. Consider pairing it with a simple blouse, a tailored blazer, and a pair of well-fitted jeans. This effortless ensemble strikes a balance between casual and sophisticated, allowing the ruby pendant to be the focal point.
2. Evening Glamour:
For evening occasions, embrace the captivating allure of the ruby by wearing it with a classic little black dress or an elegant gown. The rich red tones of the ruby pendant will complement darker shades and create a striking contrast that draws attention. Complete the look with matching ruby earrings for a coordinated and polished appearance.
3. Professional Charm:
In professional settings, a ruby pendant can convey confidence and authority. Choose a pendant with a refined design and pair it with a tailored blouse, a pencil skirt or slacks, and closed-toe heels. Opt for subtle makeup and hairstyle to ensure the focus remains on the pendant’s beauty and the impression of professionalism it conveys.
4. Casual Chic:
Even on casual days, you can incorporate a ruby pendant to elevate your look. Layer it with other delicate necklaces for a trendy and bohemian vibe. Pair the pendant with a flowy maxi dress, a denim jacket, and ankle boots for a relaxed yet stylish ensemble.
5. Special Occasions:
For special events like weddings or galas, allow your ruby pendant to shine by choosing an outfit that complements its magnificence. Consider a formal gown in a color that harmonizes with the red tones of the ruby. Sweep your hair up to accentuate your neck and neckline, creating an elegant canvas for the pendant.
See Also: A Guide to Selecting the Ideal Ruby Jewelry for Every Event
The Metaphysical and Healing Properties of Rubies
Rubies have been attributed with various metaphysical and healing properties throughout history and across cultures. These beliefs are often associated with the gemstone’s vibrant red color and its rarity. While these properties are not scientifically proven, they hold cultural and spiritual significance to many.
Metaphysically, rubies are believed to possess the following qualities:
1. Passion and Vitality:
Rubies are often associated with fiery energy, passion, and enthusiasm. They are believed to ignite feelings of love, courage, and vitality, encouraging one to pursue their goals with determination.
2. Protection:
Throughout history, rubies were considered talismans that offered protection against negativity and danger. They are believed to shield the wearer from harm and negative influences.
3. Strength and Confidence:
Rubies are thought to enhance inner strength and self-confidence. They may help boost self-esteem and empower individuals to overcome challenges.
4. Love and Relationships:
This gemstone is linked to matters of the heart, symbolizing deep love and devotion. It is said to strengthen romantic relationships and promote feelings of love, both for oneself and others.
Healing properties attributed to rubies include:
1. Vitality and Blood Circulation:
Due to its red color, rubies have been associated with the blood and circulatory system. They are believed to stimulate blood flow, promote detoxification, and enhance overall vitality.
2. Emotional Balance:
Rubies are thought to aid in balancing emotions and promoting emotional well-being. They may help alleviate feelings of sadness, anxiety, and depression.
3. Stimulating Energy:
As energy amplifiers, rubies are said to invigorate and recharge the body’s energy levels. They may help combat fatigue and enhance motivation.
4. Heart Health:
Some believe that rubies have a positive effect on heart health. They are associated with strengthening the heart both physically and emotionally.
It’s important to note that these metaphysical and healing properties are part of traditional beliefs and should not replace medical advice or treatment. Whether one believes in these properties or not, the beauty and symbolism of rubies have made them highly cherished gemstones for centuries.
In Conclusion
A ruby pendant is more than just an accessory; it’s a piece of art that carries deep symbolism and personal significance. By understanding the history, cultural meanings, and metaphysical properties of rubies, you can wear your pendant with a heightened sense of appreciation. Whether you’re aiming for daytime elegance, evening glamour, or professional charm, the key lies in finding the perfect balance between the pendant, the outfit, and your personal style. With proper care, your ruby pendant can continue to radiate its vibrant beauty for generations, becoming a cherished heirloom that tells a story of passion, courage, and enduring love.
