Fire and Blood: Rubies in Myth, Magic, and History

The ruby is the world's most precious and rare stone. For the ancient Hindus, the ruby was Rajnapura: the Gem of Gems, at whose heart surges an eternal, unquenchable flame. Yet, for all its rarity and beauty, the ruby has always been a slightly sinister stone. Indian legend says the ruby was born from the blood of a demon. Indeed, the ruby is very close to a wild, living being: fiery, passionate, and dangerous. It has been at the center of love and wars, a symbol of passion, greed, and strong magic. Ancient sages and modern crystal healers have credited it with strange powers--from the granting of prophetic insight to protecting one from bullets. It has long been part of the human journey: coveted, fought over, and feared. Morgan considers all the beautiful and terrifying facets of this magnificent stone: scientific, economic, mythological, and spiritual. She discusses the great stones and great heists of the ruby world--and the famous fakes, too--the great Black Prince and renowned Timur. She closes with a discussion of the making of synthetic rubies and the laser beam.

Author: Diane Morgan
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Published: 11/30/2007
Pages: 192
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 1.00lbs
Size: 9.48h x 6.45w x 0.81d
ISBN: 9780275993047

Review Citation(s):
Reference and Research Bk News 08/01/2008 pg. 323

About the Author

Diane Morgan is Adjunct Professor of Religion and Philosophy, Department of Religion and Philosophy, Wilson College.