For centuries, ruby rings have captivated hearts with their mesmerising crimson glow, symbolising passionate love and unwavering commitment. With their fiery essence, these magnificent gems offer a distinctive alternative to traditional diamond engagement rings, perfect for couples seeking to express their unique love story.
The Rich Heritage and Symbolism
The allure of ruby engagement rings extends far beyond their striking appearance. Ancient civilisations believed rubies weren’t mere gemstones but droplets of crystallised fire, carrying the power to ignite eternal passion within them. This profound symbolism has continued to modern times, making them an increasingly popular choice for couples seeking deeper meaning in their engagement rings.
Royal Legacy and Historical Significance
Historically, rubies have adorned the jewellery collections of nobility and royalty, most notably in pieces like the legendary Timur Ruby. The British Crown Jewels feature several significant rubies, including those worn by Queen Victoria and Princess Margaret. These royal connections have only enhanced the gem’s prestigious status and appeal.
Some notable historical ruby rings include:
- The Burmese Ruby Tiara, featuring 96 glowing rubies
- Sarah Ferguson’s ruby engagement ring from Prince Andrew
- Elizabeth Taylor’s renowned ruby and diamond ring
Understanding Ruby Quality and Value
When selecting a ruby engagement ring, understanding the key quality factors ensures you make an informed investment. Several crucial characteristics determine the value of a ruby:
Colour: The Heart of Ruby’s Appeal
The most prized rubies display a rich, vibrant red hue called “pigeon’s blood.” This coveted colour represents the pinnacle of ruby quality, characterised by:
- Deep red with subtle blue undertones
- Perfect saturation
- Exceptional transparency
- Natural fluorescence
Quality Considerations Table
Aspect | Premium Quality | Good Quality | Fair Quality |
Colour | Pigeon’s blood-red | Deep red | Light or pinkish-red |
Clarity | Eye-clean | Minor inclusions | Visible inclusions |
Cut | Ideal proportions | Good symmetry | Irregular faceting |
Carat | 1+ carat | 0.5-1 carat | Under 0.5 carat |

Contemporary Designs and Settings
Modern ruby engagement ring designs seamlessly blend timeless elegance with contemporary aesthetics. The most popular settings include:
Signature Settings
- Classic Solitaire
- Emphasises the ruby’s natural beauty
- Timeless elegance
- Maximum light interaction
- Halo Design
- Surrounds the centre ruby with diamonds
- Creates the illusion of a larger stone
- Adds extra brilliance and sparkle
- Three-Stone Setting
- Represents past, present, and future
- Often combines rubies with diamonds
- Offers greater visual impact
Metal Choices and Their Impact
The choice of metal significantly influences a ruby’s appearance:
Yellow Gold
- Enhances the ruby’s warmth
- Creates a classic, traditional look
- Particularly striking with deeper red rubies
White Gold
- Offers contemporary appeal
- Creates stunning contrast
- Perfect for modern designs
Rose Gold
- Complements the ruby’s red hues
- Provides romantic, vintage appeal
- Growing in popularity
Care and Maintenance
To maintain your ruby engagement ring’s beauty:
Daily Care
- Remove during vigorous activities
- Clean regularly with mild soap and water
- Store separately to prevent scratching
Professional Maintenance
- Schedule annual professional cleanings
- Have settings checked every 6-12 months
- Insure your ring against loss or damage

Common Questions About Ruby Engagement Rings
Q: Are rubies durable enough for daily wear? A: Yes, rubies rank 9 on the Mohs scale, making them highly durable and suitable for everyday wear.
Q: How do rubies compare to diamonds in value? A: High-quality rubies can be more valuable than diamonds of the same size, scarce “pigeon’s blood” specimens.
Q: What’s the best setting for a ruby engagement ring? A: The best setting depends on your lifestyle and preferences, but platinum and 18K gold settings provide excellent durability and security.
Making Your Choice
When selecting your ruby engagement ring, consider:
- Your lifestyle and daily activities
- Personal style preferences
- Budget considerations
- Desired symbolism and meaning
The perfect ruby engagement ring should reflect your personal style and the depth of your commitment. Whether you choose a classic solitaire or an elaborate modern design, a ruby engagement ring symbolises passionate love and enduring commitment.
Ready to Begin Your Ruby Ring Journey?
Transform your love story into a lasting symbol with a breathtaking ruby engagement ring from Xennox Diamonds. Our expert gemologists are ready to guide you through selecting the perfect ring that captures your style and sentiment.
Connect With Us
Visit our showroom to experience our exquisite collection of ruby engagement rings in person, or reach out to start your journey:
- Phone: (07) 3210-6288
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: xennoxdiamonds.com.au
Whether you have a specific design in mind or are just beginning to explore your options, our team is here to help you find or create the ruby engagement ring of your dreams. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward owning a piece that will be treasured for generations.