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Ruby
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The ruby is the red variety of corundum, all other colors are considered sapphire. Its name is from Sanskrit ratnaraj meaning "king of gems". Corundum second only to the diamond as the hardest of gemstones.
The stone is associated with fire, and early accounts would claim it would glow at night. This is likely because of the refractive index of the ruby, which would reflect even small amounts of candle light making it seem like it had an inner glow in a dark room. The ruby is associated with fire and was a component in amulets intended to protect from fire and burns.
The ruby was believed to warn of danger to the wearer and would grow dark in the presence of evil; only to regain its original splendor after the threat had passed.
One lapidary tells of a ring that may be created from a fine ruby that must be worn on the left hand. Doing so will grant peace in the wearer’s household, make him diplomatic among his peers and neighbors, safeguard his house against fire, protect his vineyards and orchards against storms, and make immune to malicious intrigues or other social perils.
Protection from attack was extended to the physical by later lapidaries. There is a legend that states that if one were to insert a ruby under his flesh it would actually render the individual immune to any form of weapon or projectile. This however, is not a bit of folklore I would recommend testing.
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Colors
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Various shades of red
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Locations
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Australia, Brazil, Burma, China, Egypt, Norway, Pakistan, and the USA
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Compisition
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Al2O3Cr, aluminum oxide with chromium
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Hardness
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9
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