Hobbies And Interests
Ruby as a Light Source
In ancient Asia, the ruby was called the glowing or lamp stone because of its luminous quality. It was believed that an Emperor of China used a ruby to light his bedroom. In Greek mythology, Heraclea's kindness to a female stork was rewarded with a ruby so bright she was able to light her bedroom with it. One Burmese king is said to have owned so many rubies that when he took them outside to absorb the moonlight, the rubies lit up the night sky above the city. Interestingly, today rubies are used in lasers.
Mystical Attributes
The ruby has been regarded as a symbol of freedom, charity, dignity and divine power. Said to give the wearer wisdom and power and to protect her against the evil intentions of others, the ruby also protected against physical danger. It was believed that the stone would darken as danger approached. This stone would keep one motivated and intensify the passion for a goal, helping the wearer to complete his task. It was said that the ruby removed all sense of limitation, and the wearer would be courageous and selfless, joyous and spiritual. Even nightmares were kept at bay by the power of the ruby.
Healing
Protection from the plague and cleansing the blood of toxins were medicinal uses of the ruby during the middle ages. Some even believed that rubies would prevent starvation. The ruby was used to ease fevers, aches and pains, improve blood circulation, cure anemia, arthritis and a host of other disorders.
Prosperity
The ruby has long been associated with attracting wealth and imparting generosity. Ancient Chinese believed that carving dragons and snakes into rubies would increase the flow of wealth and power to them.