Ruby takes its name from the Latin "Rubeus" meaning "Red", and is the second hardest gemstone after Diamond. In Ancient times, Ruby, like Amethyst, was considered more valuable than Diamond.

It is a stone of prosperity and passion. Burmese legends state that a ruby worn close to the skin would make the wearer indestructible..

Ruby is also known as a love stone, and has been used as a wedding gift for many centuries.