Ruby-Fuchsite

Ruby is the red variety of corundum, an aluminum oxide with a hardness of 9. Its intense red color, which comes from chromium, has a vibrancy unsurpassed in the mineral kingdom. Inclusions of rutile (titanium dioxide) can cause light diffusion in cabochon cut stones, creating a six pointed star. Ancient Burmese legend held that inserting a ruby into one’s flesh would make that person invulnerable. The Chinese emperor, Kublai Khan, was said to have offered an entire city in exchange for a huge ruby. They can impart a feeling of power to the wearer, improving self-confidence and adventurousness. Rubies are mined in Sri Lanka, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, India, Brazil, and the United States.

Fuchsite is a dark green variety of muscovite containing nearly 4% chromium, which gives it its wonderful emerald green color. Muscovite, often found in compact masses with small crystals, is a potassium aluminum silicate hydroxide fluoride, with a hardness of 2 to 3. It was named for Johann von Fuchs, a German chemist and mineralogist. Fuchsite is said to have a strong connection to the herbal tinctures. It can enhance the transfer of energy from other minerals, and can be useful in speeding the healing process and improving the immune system.

This combination of stones is found primarily in India.