Isn't it fascinating how each gemstone in our collection holds a unique story and a special place in our hearts? Our passion for these stunning geological marvels often goes beyond their physical beauty; it's the personal connections and emotions they evoke that make them truly priceless.
As we know, July is the birthstone month for the ruby, a gem that exudes unparalleled vibrance and passion. Now, while ruby isn't my birthstone, it holds a particularly special place in my heart. Before I was adopted and renamed Kim, my birthname was Ruby, and that's just the beginning of my deep connection with this gemstone.
In my souvenir gemstone collection, I cherish three special rubies: a Mogok ruby, a Tanzanian ruby, and a Thai ruby. Each of these stones represents a chapter in my life and an indelible bond with different parts of the world.
The Mogok Ruby: A Love Affair with Myanmar
I acquired my Mogok ruby shortly after visiting Mogok, Myanmar, for my book research. That journey was transformative. The breathtaking landscapes, the warm-hearted community, and the rich history of Mogok captured my heart. When I found this tiny breadcrumb-sized ruby, its exceptional clarity and quality immediately drew me in. It now serves as a radiant memento of a place and people I deeply admire.
The Tanzanian Ruby: A Heritage Connection
My Tanzanian ruby is another treasure that speaks to my soul. Part of my heritage lies in Tanzania, and owning a ruby from this beautiful country feels like carrying a piece of home with me. Only size of a small sweet pea, this ruby has an undeniable sparkle and life, a reflection of the vibrant Tanzanian spirit that I hold dear. It's more than just a gem; it's a connection to my roots and identity.
The Thai Ruby: A Souvenir of Bangkok
Lastly, there's my Thai ruby, a small but beautiful keepsake from Bangkok, where I spent time researching for my book in 2017. Not that size matters, I bought it as a souvenir, a tangible memory of my adventures in Thailand. While Thai rubies tend to be darker and less sparkly compared to their Mogok and Tanzanian counterparts, this one holds a special charm for me. Its presence in my collection is a reminder of the incredible journey and the cultural tapestry I experienced in Bangkok.
Comparing these rubies, I find that Tanzanian rubies often have more sparkle and life, whereas my Mogok ruby stands out for its crystal-clear quality. The Thai ruby, despite its darker hue and lesser clarity, carries sentimental value that makes it irreplaceable in my eyes.
So, fellow enthusiasts, I'd love to hear from you. Which gemstone are you partial to and why? What's the story behind your favourite gem?
Let's share our passion and the stories behind our beloved collections. After all, it's these personal tales that make our collections truly extraordinary.
Kim Rix GG GIA
Gemstone Detective
Be sure. Be smart. Buy with confidence
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