Ruby, a variety of corundum, is an aluminum oxide mineral with a hardness of 9. Until 1800, garnets and red spinel were thought to be Rubies. It is said that the Mongolian emperor Kublai Khan offered to trade an entire city for a large Ruby.
Ruby is a stone that promotes generosity, with prosperity following suit. Its helps to protect the home and family and is also good for psychic protection. Ruby is a powerful stone for activating the Root Chakra, lending vitality, and raising your chi. They help to defeat feelings of hopelessness and defeat, promoting optimism and determination.