Designer Jewelry - Bespoke Jewelry

Collected for centuries, stolen in heists and auctioned for millions, and adored by Kings, Queens and famous figures alike, the history of rubies goes back a long time. 

First discovered in Asia in prehistoric times, the ruby enjoyed legendary powers in Eastern mythology. Some believed rubies protected armies from defeat. Chinese noblemen adorned their armor with rubies for protection.

Chinese emperor Kublai Khan offered to exchange a whole city for a large ruby.

Marco Polo was one of the first to mention rubies in writing 700 years ago. When he saw the King of Ceylon's large ruby, he declared it "the most precious article that exists in the world."

That's a lot of hype for a rock! Oh, but it's such a pretty rock, isn't it? Not only is it the birthstone for July and Cancer, but it is also one of the four "precious" gems along with diamonds, sapphires and emeralds. In addition, it is the gem for both the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries.

Naturally, we have some unusual and artistic rubies at MaJe Gallery. Some were even made by me!

I couldn't resist these faceted heart rubies when I saw them at the gem show. In this necklace, they are interspersed with smooth ruby rondelles and a glistening Ethiopian opal briolette. The full necklace also includes faceted ruby briolettes and a custom extender to go from 18" to 21" with ease. Get it here or in store.

And of course, one must have earrings to coordinate with such a unique necklace! For these, I put the faceted heart rubies in the center, and followed through with the smooth ruby rondelles and a pair of smooth opal rondelles to complete the compliment. Get these online, or stop by and just get them at MaJe Gallery. (Hint: There's another pair with the opals and rubies reversed!)

Maybe you're crazy about rings, like me! Then you might like this opaque ruby with custom faceting by Seattle designer Michelle Lenae. Set in a diminutive 14k yellow gold bezel and band, it's a charming ring indeed. 

While opaque rubies aren't as prized as translucent ones, they are often larger! Artists have more leverage to make something spectacular with them. Thus, our opaque rubies are nice and generous in size.

Just like the other red gem, garnet, rubies are associated with love and passion. This makes them an excellent option as an engagement ring. Add a diamond or two for good measure. Talk to me about a custom engagement ring with rubies - or any other gem for that matter!

MaJe Gallery works with over 35 talented jewelry designers from all over the country, and even a couple beyond our borders. We have an impressive selection in our online store, and an abundance inside our brick and mortar building. Take a virtual tour of our entire online collection here. Or stop by during business hours to see everything in person!

Tuesday - Thursday: noon to 4

Friday - Saturday: 11 to 5

Sunday - Monday: Closed

HANDY LINKS

See our newest arrivals here.

Shop small gifts here.

Shop minimalist jewelry here.

Shop Manya Vee Jewelry's pure silver collection here.