Precious, rare and durable, rubies have long captured the world’s imagination. In ancient India, it was known as the “king of gemstones”. In the Middle East, renowned poet Rumi often alluded to its splendour in his writings; while in Asia, ancient Burmese warriors believed that rubies made them invincible. In Europe, it was revered as a symbol of wealth, wisdom, luck and success.

There’s just something about that unique shade of ruby red which captures attention, which makes it no surprise that it’s famously associated with one of Hollywood’s greatest icons, Elizabeth Taylor. The ruby and diamond Cartier necklace and earring set, which she wore for several Hollywood events, sold for record amounts at auction in 2011. Another iconic ruby piece that Elizabeth Taylor was known for was the Van Cleef & Arpels 8.24-carat “pigeon blood” Puertas ruby, diamond and gold ring – a ring that her then-husband Richard Burton called the “most perfect ruby in the world.”

So if your birthstone is the ruby, or you just find yourself inexplicably drawn to the gemstone’s energy, these jewellery pieces could help satisfy your need for this fiery statement gem.

 

Van Cleef & Arpels

Folie des Prés necklace

This high jewellery piece from Van Cleef & Arpels was inspired by wildflowers. Round and oval shaped rubies, alongside diamonds, create a delicate look despite being made of the hardest gemstones. Matching earrings and bracelet can be paired to complete the look.

W vancleefarpels.com

 

Bulgari

Divas’ Dream earrings

Inspired by Roman glamour and the divas that that embodied that star-studded era, this stunning piece from Bulgari places the pear-shaped ruby in centre focus. The openwork rose gold setting frames the gem in a way that welcomes your full attention.

W bulgari.com

 

Tiffany & Co.

Tiffany Keys pendant

Combine the symbolism of the ruby with that of the iconic Tiffany Keys and you get a piece of jewellery that’s truly a lucky charm. Launched in 2009, the Tiffany Keys represent success, infinite possibilities and the fulfilment of extraordinary hope. Though the keys come in several variations of design, materials and gemstones, this ruby-set pendant brings a passionate flair to its legacy.

W tiffany.my

 

Graff

Gaze of Galaxia high jewellery collection

As the namesake of one of the most famous rubies in the world, Graff is a jeweller to trust when it comes to creating stunning ruby pieces. Shaped to evoke the image of a breaking dawn, their Gaze of Galaxia high jewellery collection from this year features rare cushion cut rubies set against custom cut diamonds.

W graff.com

 

Roberto Coin

Love in Verona ring

Rubies and Roberto Coin go hand in hand. It’s a well-known fact now that every authentic piece of Roberto Coin fine jewellery is ‘signed’ with a small ruby set on the inside, so it directly touches the wearer’s skin. This ring from the Love in Verona collection is inspired by the Italian city, with a contemporary and minimalist look incorporating classic elements to make it timeless.

W robertocoin.com

 

Chopard

Precious Lace Mini-Froufrou bracelet

Minimalist yet extravagant, Chopard’s Precious Lace high jewellery collection is instantly recognisable by the signature flower motif. This ethical rose gold bangle inlaid with rubies and diamonds would be the perfect finishing touch to your perfect date night look.

W chopard.com

 

For more jewellery and watch stories, check out our Pieces section here.

Feature image credit: TODAY