Origins

Much like their bold colouring, how rubies are formed is also extremely interesting! Coming from the Latin word ‘ruber’, which means large, high-quality natural rubies are extremely rare making it no surprise that these beauts come with a steep price. Most rubies found in stores are synthetically made but if you ever come across a deep, red-coloured ruby, you can bet it will be worth more than a diamond!

The main element used in forming rubies is called corundum which is the elemental mineral consisting of densely packed aluminium and oxygen atoms. As an interesting side-note, corundums without the red or white colour are a very common gemstone that most are familiar with: Sapphires.

Corundums are typically colourless; however, depending on the small amounts of chromium that lay inside of a corundum give off the red colouring that is associated with rubies.

Because of their rarity, geoscience professional deem rubies as a minor geological miracle since the entire process of how a ruby is formed from start to finish still remains unknown, although the ‘glow’ of a ruby can be explained quite easily.

The dazzling glow factor that occurs inside of rubies is simply when the chromium element meets ultraviolet lights. This is one of the main factors that have given rubies their mystical qualities that still run strong today.

Mystical Qualities

Rubies are one of the most revered gems in all of history as well as currently. Centuries ago, Burmese warriors were known to actually embed rubies under their skin to make them invincible in battle while warding off enemies. Probably not the healthiest of tactics but it does portray the strong amount of faith people have put into rubies.

In today’s era, rubies are most notably worshipped by Hindus. Those of Hinduism belief follow a very distinct ritual, each and every time, before ever wearing a new ruby on their body. This is based on the person’s birth month, date and year, followed by varied numbers of chants while letting the ruby sit in unboiled milk.

Believed to be a representation of the sun, here is how the entire process typically plays out:

• Rubies must be without flaws, transparent and dark red in colour
• Rubies should be set in gold at the minimum of 14 carats
• If the jewellery is a ruby ring, it must be worn on the left ring finger for males and right ring finger for females
• It can only be placed on the body after being bathed in unboiled milk and gangajal AFTER sunrise and BEFORE 10am on Sunday
• The ruby must touch the stone on the feet of any favourite God after chanting the appropriate mantra – for 10 continuous Sundays
• There are a couple mantras of Sun. After picking the suitable mantra, it must be chanted 108 times after the Ganesh mantra

*Please note that this is only one of many methods, mantras and beliefs of the ruby.

More generalised beliefs of rubies revolve around symbolisms of everlasting love, good fortune and was/is worn as a talisman to ward off evil spirits and natural disasters.

Gift Ideas

With birthstones and coloured diamonds being the new ‘It’ trend for engagement rings, rubies are no exception. The difference between a ruby and another coloured gemstone is both the value and the colour which should both be kept in mind when considering the purchase.

Because of the value that rubies hold, chances are that a ruby engagement ring will be the proposal gift of the year but that also means insurance is a must. Knowing how to care for a ruby is also extremely important.

While rubies are extremely hard, depending on how many inclusions or if it has any internal fractures, it will crack over time if not monitored. Most jewellery professionals offer ring rejuvenation services to polish and clean your engagement ring while checking for any problems it may have.

Rubies are a much bolder jewel than most other gemstones which means that wearing a ruby makes a bold statement in itself. The colour of a ruby speaks for itself meaning that you won’t need to deck yourself up too much with other jewellery since it will either get outshone by the ruby or worse, clashing and turning a magnificent statement into a fashion faux-pas!

The same rules apply to all ruby jewellery, whether it’s a necklace, bracelet, earrings or rings. Value and colour! Keep those two things in mind and you’ll be wearing your ruby like royalty!!

5. Dream Shoe Designer: Stuart Weitzmann, assisted by Oscar Heyman Bros.

Fully understanding what women want out of a shoe, Stuart Weitzmann has created some of the finest, artistic and most expensive shoes of our time. Designing, perhaps, a coveted shoe during the times of The Wizard of Oz, these sparkly red slippers are fully studded with 642 oval Burma rubies that come in with a total weight of 123-33 carats and are set in a half pound of platinum.

When the stilettos were first created, they were the most expensive shoe of their time and designed to be worn only by the famous. Currently ranking in at #5 on the list of Most Expensive Dream Shoes, they still cost an arm and a leg of $1.6 million USD.

4. Dream Shoe Designer: Stuart Weitzmann

Deemed the ‘Cinderella slippers’, these elegant heels are heavy with 565 platinum-set Kwiat diamonds that total up to 55 carats of clear diamonds and one enormous 5 carat amaretto diamond, worth one million USD on its own, on each shoe.

These fairytale 4 ½ inch stiletto shoes are every girl’s dream and with their steep cost, may just remain that! While they’ve been worn once by Allison Kraus at the 2004 Oscar ceremony, these shoes now sit on display in Beverly Hills, California and are worth $2 million USD.

3. Dream Shoe Designer: Stuart Weitzmann and Jeweller, Le Vian

Tying 3^rd and 4^th place with himself on the most expensive shoes list, Stuart Weitzmann, in collaboration with Le Vian, have created another $2 million USD pair of evening shoes.

Rightfully so, these million dollar stilettos rank in the top 5 of the world’s most expensive shoes due to the 185 carats of museum quality tanzanite, 28 carats of diamonds and another huge 16 carat tanzanite that dangles on the front of the heel from the ankle strap. All of these rare and precious stones are placed on the silver leather embellished shoe making it one of the daintiest and rarest high-heeled stilettos ever made.

2. Dream Shoe Designer: Ronald Winston from the House of Harry Winston

Not to be outdone by Stuart Weitzman, Ronald Winston carries on The Wizard of Oz theme by celebrating its 50^th anniversary with these Harry Winston Ruby Slippers. Tying in at first place with Stuart Weitzmann on the #1 spot, not only are they eye-blindingly glittery with very possibly, more rubies that any person has seen at once, they also carry more weight than any shoe designed to date! Completely covered in 4,600 valuable rubies, these low-heeled pumps have a total weight of 1,350 carats or pure ruby.

To coincide with this one-of-a-kind pair of treasures, it also carries a one-of-a-kind price tag of $3 million USD!

1. Dream Shoe Designer: Stuart Weitzmann

The factor that determined whether the Harry Winston Ruby Slippers or the Stuart Weitzmann Rita Hayworth Heels took the number one spot was which shoe was more current.

Labelled as the most recent, over-the-top creation in designer shoes, these shoes were inspired by earrings worn by the late Rita Hayworth and worn only once by singer/songwriter, Kathleen Bird York, at the 2006 Oscars. Now owned by Rita Haworth’s daughter, Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, they’re off the market although their beauty can still be admired from afar.

These open-toed heels were designed using a rust-coloured satin and decorated with rubies, sapphires and diamonds, all nested in the satin ruffle at the toe of the shoe. Unsurprisingly, the Rita Hayworth shoes hold their value at $300 million USD.

Price: $ 57,000
One of the most remarkable Visconti pens is the Ripple H.R.H. Limited Edition fountain pen. Made of 18K white gold and diamonds and with two-tone 18K gold nib, it costs $57,000.00. It has double reservoir filling system and is sold in two variations – white gold and black.

4. Omas Phoenix Platinum Fountain Pen Luxury Limited Edition with Diamonds

Price: $60,000

With an overwhelming price tag of $60,000, this truncated cone shaped pen is a true embodiment of fact and fancy. Made with 950 platinum and yellow enamel with considerable length and diameter, 18K gold rhodium plated engraving nib.

3. La Modernista Diamonds Caran d’Ache

Price: $265,000
La Modernista Diamonds was made by the Swiss company Caran d’Ache in 1999 in homage to Antonio Gaudi (1852-1926), the most famous of Modernist architects. This amazing fountain pen was sold in Harrods, London, for $265,000, becoming the most expensive pen in GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS in 2001. La Modernista Diamonds is made of rhodium-plated solid silver components. It boasts of an 18-carat rhodium-plated gold nib and is set with a total of 5,072 Wessel ton diamonds weighing in at 20-carats, as well as 96 rubies totaling 32-carats. The pen was hand-made by master jeweler Robert Perron taking him six months to complete this true masterpiece of writing instruments.

2. Mystery Masterpiece Mont Blanc and Van Cleef & Arpels Limited Edition

Price: $730,000
To commemorate the centenary of these two renowned brands, Montblanc and Van Cleef & Arpels have collaborated on this fine, limited edition Mystery Masterpiece. Three individual editions, each set with rubies, sapphires or emeralds has been crafted. Using the Mystery Setting technique for the gemstones, these intricate writing instruments are set to stun with their extravagant design, and equally-extravagant price. At US$730,000 each, they are truly a fitting homage to a century of each brands respective history.

1. Aurora Diamante fountain pen

Price: $1,470,600
The Aurora Diamante is the most expensive writing instrument to date. Only one is for sale per year. The Aurora Diamante contains over 30 carats of De Beers diamonds on a solid platinum barrel. It has a two-tone, rhodium-treated, 18KT solid gold nib and is personalized with a coat of arms, signature or portrait. Aurora Pens says it is the only over 30 carat pen in the world.

A marriage proposal is one of the most important and personal events of a lifetime.  A very special engagement ring will reflect the significance of this event.  When you become engaged, you and your partner can create a lasting symbol of your unique love for each other with a custom engagement ring design. With the help of an experienced jeweller, the process of designing a custom engagement ring will bring you and your loved one closer and help you create a ring that both of you will treasure forever.

The Design Process

Once you’ve decided to create an engagement ring that will reflect you and your partner’s personalities and taste, the next step is to consult a jeweller who specializes in custom engagement ring design.  An experienced jeweller has the technical expertise required to guide you through the design process.  Your jeweller will explain the process to you in simple terms and make sure you have input at every step.  You will gain an understanding and appreciation of how much is involved in custom designing and creation of your engagement ring.

Your jeweller will help you make a series of important design decisions related to ring design, including:

• Diamonds – Which one is Right for you? – Your jeweller will help run you through what makes a diamond sparkle with “Fire and Brilliance” and how the different characteristics affect the value of the diamond. Diamonds are a traditional choice for engagement rings, but a truly unique design can be created using other types of stones.  Emeralds, rubies and pearls can be striking alternatives to diamonds.
• The Size and Shape of the Diamond or Gemstone – Once the type of stone is chosen, your jeweller can recommend suitable sizes and shapes.  When recommending a diamond or gemstone, your jeweller will take into account your personalities, what you want to communicate through your engagement ring and a host of other considerations.
• The Style of the Setting – The design details of the setting will have a major impact on the overall style and look of the ring.  The setting can be traditional, with a clean and crisp look that will allow your diamond or gemstone to sparkle with its own “fire and brilliance” or it may be embellished with side stones, engraving or filigrees, adding more detail and intrigue to the design.
• Platinum or Gold? – Which one is Best for your Setting? – The setting design, the diamond and gemstones used and the ring budget will determine the best metal for the engagement ring.

After you have expressed your design preferences, your jeweller will create a custom design for your approval.  Many couples have seen another ring that they want to copy, or they may want to combine 2 or 3 design elements from other rings.  If this is the case with your ring design, feel free to bring in drawings or photos to give your jeweller an idea of what you have in mind.  A talented jeweller will incorporate these suggestions into a single cohesive ring design, adding any details that may be needed to complete the design and convey what you would like to have represented in your ring.

The Surprise Engagement Ring

A marriage proposal and engagement ring are often planned as a surprise.  In this case, the design decisions will be made solely by the man.  His fiancée’s lifestyle, looks, body size and shape, personality and taste in jewellery should be taken into account when designing a custom engagement ring.  Family members or close friends can be a great help in creating a design that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Wedding Band Considerations

The design for your wedding bands should be considered when designing your engagement ring, especially if a bridal set consisting of the two rings is desired.  Using similar stones, metals and design motifs is the best way to tie together the engagement and wedding rings.

Generally speaking, if you use a similar design in both engagement ring and wedding bands, you will gain the benefit of having them look they were designed together at the same time.  When the engagement and wedding ring are worn together they will truly look like a matched set and not two unmatched rings that were bought at different times and places and thrown together.

Custom Engagement Ring Budget

You and your partner need to be aware that a custom designed engagement ring may cost a bit more than purchasing a mass market existing design due to the exclusivity of having an engagement ring designed specifically for you.  It’s important to establish a budget and to work with your jeweller to stick with your budget.  Your jeweller will be prepared to offer many suggestions on how to stick with your budget.  Be prepared to listen to your jeweller’s suggestions and work with the options that are presented to you.

Sam Kritsotakis

Eskae Jeweller -Your Private Jeweller

What is the meaning behind an eternity ring?

The eternity ring is given as a tangible symbol of the promise of love forever. The eternity ring is simply one beautiful way to show the love your life how much she means to you. The endless or eternal loop is symbolic of eternal love as it has no beginning and no end. For this reason, some eternity ring designs are multi-stranded or plaited, this is symbolic of the many years to come that you will be spending together. Another more ancient and symbolic again is the theme of having the band formed and shaped like a snake almost always swallowing its own tail, this is a theme more common in ancient Greece and symbolises the never ending circle of BOTH life and love

What is the tradition attached?

The history of the eternity ring is very closely related to that of the wedding ring – that is a ring, or circle of metal, that has no beginning and no end – in other words is ‘eternal’. Throughout history the concept of the eternity ring can be seen in many traditions and even as far back as 2000 BC with what could be thought of as ancient eternity rings can be found. The earliest recorded examples of a simple plain eternity ring can be traced to the ancient Egyptians and then following the rise of the Greek empire, the design of these simple rings follow into that tradition.

The history of the eternity ring goes back almost four thousand years. Ancient Egyptians are thought to be the first to make and wear eternity rings. Eternity rings are essentially a continuous circle of metal studded with stones either halfway or all the way around. In ancient Greece the design of the snake or serpent depending on which part of Greece, was more prevalent, not only was the ring symbolic but also the use of the motif of the snake and serpent, as this was representative of life and love similarly to the goddess Athena. Early eternity rings were meant to symbolize eternal life and love. The unending, unbroken circle of precious metal represents a never-ending circle of trust, or the circle of life and love.

Early eternity rings in the more modern times featured stones that went halfway around the band of the ring. this began the move into the modern day version with either the band set with diamonds or a combination of diamonds and ruby, emerald or sapphire. even closer to today and we start to see that people are taking this idea one step further and setting the entire band with stones, again it is either all diamond or a combination like i mentioned above. these rings look great however because of the exact measurements needed to place and set diamonds all the way around these are generally custom crafted to fit not only you but the look you are after.

When do you normally get an eternity ring?

Eternity rings like wedding rings are a symbol of everlasting love and are typically given to celebrate an anniversary or another significant event, such as the birth of a child. traditionally they were given at the 5 year anniversary, but there has been a massive shift in this and now they are given at either the first year anniversary or the birth of your first child, which ever happens to come first.

The birth of a child is a very appropriate time to give an eternity ring. In this instance, it could symbolize the eternity of your new family or your never-ending love and compassion for your wife who has helped you create this new life. As an anniversary gift, it could symbolize the eternity that you will be together or how it has felt like an eternity being married. only in the best possible way of coarse!!! Whatever meaning you come up with, an eternity ring will leave a lasting impression and most definitely become an heirloom and beautiful conversation piece for years to come. The long-lasting reputation and never ending popularity of the eternity ring will ensure that it never goes out of style and is always admired and loved. Showing your love with eternity rings is a long standing tradition and will surely make your special someone feel loved and appreciated.

What is the typical design?

Eternity rings are usually set with diamonds. Other stones such as emeralds, rubies and sapphires are also popular choices, but diamonds are the favourite. most people go with either a round shaped stone or a square (princess) shaped stone. the round stones lend themselves very well to almost any setting style that we can come up with, while the square or sharper shaped stones are particularly well suited to having a channel set band. this is the sort of ring in which there is no gap between the stones and being able to set a straight edge up against another straight edge works really well.

It is your personal choice when deciding how to wear your eternity ring. Eternity rings are usually worn on the same finger as the wedding rings. traditionally you wear your wedding ring closest to your knuckle then your engagement ring and then your eternity ring on the outside and closest to your finger tip The eternity ring can be worn in addition to the engagement ring and wedding band, or in place of either one. Many women choose to wear all 3 together, especially if they have taken the time to get these rings designed and crafted as a set.

Because of their beauty, fire, sparkle and endurance, diamonds are the most popular gemstones for eternity rings, as symbolizing the permanence and commitment of the relationship. However rubies, sapphires, emeralds are also popular, usually in conjunction with diamonds, however i have made a few all emerald or all sapphire eternity ring, but again this was a special request as the lady had an all emerald or sapphire wedding ring which she wanted to match.

One of the benefits for the full eternity ring is that no matter how much the ring revolves around the finger, the stones will always show and you will never see anything but diamonds! Because a full eternity ring cannot usually be adjusted for finger size, they need to be custom ordered and crafted. there are some very specific measurements that need to be adhered to in order to make the ring work as a full hoop (going all the way around) design, but once the measurements are done the result is absolutely fantastic!

There is only 1 of each of the below stones, so once it is purchased, unfortunately they are no more, move quickly to be able to give your partner a stunning gift for Christmas! Get in touch with me about the gemstone you are interested in and I will be able to quote you on having the gemstone made up into a magnificent piece of jewellery! Please find below some photos and a brief description of the coloured gems on offer.

12.48ct Amethyst, Trilliant Cut, 16.3mm from point to point. A stone like this in this shape lends itself to being set as a pendant, with a point to the top with claws to accentuate the light coming into this beautiful colour. This stone only is $750

3.98ct Golden Zircon, Oval Cut, 9.8 x 7.4mm. This lively and bright golden colour is best set in yellow gold to intensify the colour even more, and would lend itself to being worn as a ring or pendant, and highlighted with 1-2 small white diamonds. This stone only is $930

2.81ct Green Tourmaline, Drop Cut, 10.7 x 8.3mm. This beautiful deep coloured Tourmaline has a ‘perfect’ drop shape to it, which is ideal for setting in a pendant, with the point running either way as the colour is completely even and matched throughout the entire stone. This stone only is $$500

3.37ct Rubelite Tourmaline, Drop Cut, 14 x 8mm. This intensely coloured gem has the depth of colour that is prominent in quality rubies, yet has the life and brilliance that is exhibited in tourmaline’s, with its slender shape, it is best suited for setting in a ring as this will allow you to maximise the light that will show off the colour of this gem. This stone only is $2,400.

2.90ct Rubelite Tourmaline, Oval Cut, 10.4 x 7.3mm. Again this rubelite has an intense colour about it, however it has slightly more pink in it than the above stone, it has a great shape and depth of colour to it that will be perfect in either a classically styled ring or simple and elegant pendant, possibly highlighted with a few small white diamonds. This stone only is $1,475

2.14ct Aquamarine, Marquise Cut, 14 x 7mm. this gemstone has a ‘perfect’ proportion in its length to width and will be spectacular as a stylish pendant drop that has been accentuated with several small white diamonds between the chain and the Aquamarine. It is a lively stone and has great depth of colour. This stone only is $1,765

5.01ct Yellow Sapphire, Fancy Cushion Cut, 10.4 x 9mm. A classic and beautifully shaped gemstone which will be ideal for that ring on your right hand, you could use some white diamonds to highlight the already bright colour or set it on its own, either way this Sapphire will be a dazzler! This stone only is $7,500

1.33ct Pink Sapphire, Trilliant Cut, 6.5mm. This pink, has the typical and most sought after depth of colour that a pink sapphire will ever exhibit. This is a collectable gemstone and will be a fantastic addition to your jewellery collection. This stone only is $2.350

Total= 1.87ct matched Emeralds, Drop Cut. This set will only be sold as a pair. Obviously these great emeralds will make beautiful earrings, allowing you to drop them off the ear for some extra sparkle, enhance them with a couple of small white diamonds to really catch the light and peoples attention! This set only is $4,900

3.21ct Ceylon Sapphire, Oval Cut, 10.5 x 7.5mm. the depth and play of colour in this vibrant sapphire will make this a gemstone to covet, with its ‘ideal’ proportions setting this in a ring is the best way to maximise its colour and life. Keeping it open so the light can pass through the stone will only enhance the play of colour. This stone only is $8,250

3.03ct Ceylon Sapphire, Fancy Drop Cut, 9.3 x 9mm. with its unusual shape and its vibrant and playful colour, you will get the best looking piece if you surround it in small white diamonds and set it as a magnificent pendant. This stone only is $8,150

NB:- prices quoted are for the stones only, and include GST. However the prices quoted do NOT include the cost of any crafting of jewellery, ESKAE will quote you for the desired piece.

email me at Sam@EskaeJeweller.com to make sure that you are able to own one of these RARE beauties!

Sam.

P.S as a special and ONE TIME only offer, for the first 3 people to email me i will give you $250 of setting at no charge! this means you will be able to add the extra diamonds or coloured stones that you want to have!