Rubies are primarily found in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Afghanistan. While rubies have also been known to exist in countries such as Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, and India, the most precious, valuable rubies ever to be found were derived from the Mogok Valley in Burma.
Since ancient times, Ruby jewelry was thought to have magical powers in warding against wicked thoughts and forbidden temptations. A remarkable red gem; the ruby is steeped in mythology and mysticism. Eastern legends contend that rubies contain “a deep drop of the heart of Mother Earth’s blood.” In some ancient oriental cultures, it was believed that ruby jewelry could glow so fervently that it could illuminate a dark room. It was believed that the Emperor of China used a ruby to light his chamber.
