History

The earliest references to Rubies are to be found in the bible. E.g. (Proverbs):

She is more precious than rubies.
For wisdom is above rubies
Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is above rubies.

It is thought that rubies reached the Mediterranean and Europe during Greco-Roman times.

It is known that the Romans particularly liked rubies.

The Canning Jewel is one of the best known pieces of Renaissance jewellery. Following the French revolution, the Crown Jewels of France which were saved included the Rubies of the Royal Collection. They were redesigned and set with diamonds in 1816.

There was a Gothic influence to early Victorian Jewellery – heavy gold necklaces were decorated with rubies.

Traditionally, Coronation rings and Crowns contain rubies.