Note from the Nomad: I’m a yogi, not a doctor! Any information provided here about the healing properties of crystals is based on historical or traditional beliefs and is not intended as medical advice; always consult a healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Ready to explore the world of red gemstones? In this guide, we’ll quickly break down 11 red stones, their histories, and what they mean. Whether you’re curious or looking for a stone that speaks to you, by the end, you’ll have a clear picture of what each gem brings to the table. Let’s dive in!
Contents
Quick Picks
| Name | Appearance | Found In | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Ruby |  | Myanmar, Thailand & Parts of Africa | See latest price |
| Red Garnet |  | Sri Lanka, Parts of Europe & Africa | See latest price |
| Red Jasper |  | Egypt | See latest price |
| Red Coral |  | Found Under Sea | See latest price |
| Red Spinel |  | Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Tajikistan | See latest price |
| Red Agate |  | Sicily Rivers | See latest price |
| Red Tourmaline (Rubellite) |  | Brazil | See latest price |
| Red Topaz |  | Egypt | See latest price |
| Red Amber |  | Middle East | See latest price |
| Red Tiger’s Eye |  | South Africa, India, and Australia | See latest price |
| Red Obsidian |  | Near Volcanoes | See latest price |
Ruby
Origin and History
The name “Ruby” is derived from the Latin word “ruber,” which means red. Historically, rubies have been treasured for thousands of years and have been mentioned multiple times in ancient Sanskrit scriptures as the “king of gemstones.”
Originating from countries like Myanmar (formerly Burma), Thailand, and even parts of Africa, rubies have adorned the crowns, jewelry, and garments of kings, queens, and nobility, symbolizing power and wealth.
Rubies also have an illustrious history in various myths and legends. In ancient Burma, it was believed that rubies were made of drops of dragon blood, which imbued them with their fiery color. Meanwhile, in India, rubies were seen as stones that could help one achieve peace with their enemies.
Spiritual Meaning
The ruby, with its deep crimson hue, resonates profoundly with the heart’s energies. It has long been associated with passion—not just in love, but also in life, driving the wearer to pursue their heart’s desires with fervor and dedication. Rubies are also symbols of protection.
They have been historically considered to be powerful talismans, protecting the wearer from harm, evil spirits, and even bad dreams. Its rich, fiery glow also aligns it with prosperity, and it’s often believed that rubies can attract wealth and good fortune.
Healing Properties
From a healing perspective, rubies are dynamic stones that activate and stimulate. They are believed to increase energy levels, especially when someone is feeling lethargic or drained. They rekindle the inner fire, thereby improving motivation and the drive to achieve one’s goals.
On a more emotional level, rubies are linked to the heart chakra and are believed to attract love – both in terms of self-love and romantic love. Wearing or meditating with a ruby can help open one’s heart and make them more receptive to love’s embrace.
Red Garnet
Origin and History
Red Garnet, with its warm, radiant hues, has been a gemstone cherished since antiquity. The name “garnet” originates from the Latin “granatus,” which means “grain” or “seed,” reminiscent of the vibrant seeds of the pomegranate fruit.
Found across various regions, from Sri Lanka to Europe to Africa, garnets have been used not only as gemstones but also as abrasives and even as bullets in certain historical periods due to their hardness and durability.
Throughout history, garnets have been discovered in the artifacts of ancient civilizations, from the Egyptians to the Romans. The ancient Egyptians believed garnets were symbols of life, and Pharaohs were entombed with garnet necklaces.
In medieval times, the gem was associated with the fire of commitment and was often used in rings exchanged between lovers.
Spiritual Meaning
Deeply rooted in the Earth, Red Garnet exudes a powerful grounding energy, helping its wearers to remain connected to the present moment and the physical realm. Its rich red tone encapsulates the spirit of commitment.
Whether it’s commitment to a person, a passion, or a purpose, garnets garners and fortifies loyalty and dedication. Further, the gem is also linked with manifestation. It acts as a catalyst, helping the wearer transform their dreams into reality, making it an ideal companion for those on the path of creation and actualization.
Healing Properties
On the healing spectrum, Red Garnet is celebrated for its revitalizing energy. If you’re feeling drained or overwhelmed, garnet can help recharge your batteries, infusing you with vigor and vitality. Emotionally, it acts as a stabilizer, balancing emotions and dispelling chaotic feelings, making it invaluable for those seeking emotional equilibrium.
On the front of love, garnet is not just limited to romantic love but also inspires love in all its forms, from self-love to platonic love, fanning the flames of affection and understanding.
Red Jasper
Origin and History
Red Jasper, often referred to as the “Supreme Nurturer,” has a rich history that dates back to ancient civilizations. This opaque, earthy-red stone has been revered and utilized across continents and ages. From the protective amulets of ancient Egypt to the seals and talismans of the Babylonians, Red Jasper has long held a significant place in human history.
Its name derives from the Greek word “iaspi,” which translates to “spotted stone,” referring to its unique patterns and often veined appearance.
Traces of Red Jasper have been found in archaeological digs around ancient cities, indicating its widespread use and appeal.
Native American cultures, for instance, considered it a rain-bringing stone, while in medieval Europe, it was believed to counteract the venom of poisonous creatures.
Spiritual Meaning
Red Jasper’s robust, grounding energy anchors itself firmly in the realm of stability. When life feels chaotic or unstable, Red Jasper serves as a reminder of the steadfastness of the Earth beneath our feet. The gemstone also embodies strength – not just in a physical sense but also in mental resilience and emotional fortitude.
This is a stone that champions endurance and tenacity. Its deeply grounding nature also ensures a balanced and calm approach to life’s challenges, making it a cornerstone for grounding one’s spirit.
Healing Properties
The nurturing aspect of Red Jasper cannot be overstated. As the “Supreme Nurturer,” it envelops its wearer in a cocoon of comfort, making one feel secure and cared for. It’s a stone that can reinvigorate the spirit and provide a sense of well-being. Moreover, Red Jasper is known for its courage-boosting properties.
If you’re facing daunting challenges or stepping into unfamiliar territory, this stone can embolden you, helping overcome fears and insecurities. Lastly, in today’s high-paced world, Red Jasper provides essential stress relief, calming the nerves and providing a serene oasis amidst the hustle and bustle.
Red Coral
Origin and History
Red Coral, distinctively unique in the world of gemstones, isn’t a stone at all but rather an organic gem borne from the depths of the sea. Formed by the accumulated skeletal masses of tiny marine animals called polyps, red coral reefs have been a source of wonder, mystery, and harvest for thousands of years.
Their vibrant, fiery hue, coupled with their organic nature, has made them highly sought after in various cultures, especially in the Mediterranean region, India, and China.
Historically, Red Coral has been used as an adornment and protective talismans. The ancient Egyptians valued it for its beauty and incorporated it into their jewelry.
Similarly, the Romans believed in its protective qualities, using it as a shield against evil forces. The organic nature of Red Coral, rooted in the rhythm of the sea and the cycle of life, has always added to its allure and mystique.
Spiritual Meaning
Deeply connected to the vastness and ebb and flow of the ocean, Red Coral encapsulates the essence of life force energy. It is a symbol of life-giving energies, representing the vibrancy, dynamism, and continuous cycle of existence.
The gem is also associated with intuition, much like the mysterious depths of the oceans, urging its wearer to delve deeper into their subconscious and heed their inner voice. Red Coral’s calming and organic origin fosters inner peace, reminding one of the natural balance and serenity that life offers.
Healing Properties
Emotionally, Red Coral is a harmonizer. It works to harmonize emotions, smoothing out the highs and lows and promoting emotional intelligence and equilibrium. It’s not just a healer but also an igniter.
The gem is known for stimulating passion, not just in love, but in every aspect of life, encouraging one to embrace life with zeal and enthusiasm. Moreover, Red Coral aids in promoting inner strength. Like the steadfast coral reefs that weather storms and waves, wearing or meditating with Red Coral can inspire resilience and fortitude.
Red Spinel
Origin and History
Red Spinel, often dubbed the “Imposter Ruby,” has an enchanting history of mistaken identity. For centuries, due to its striking resemblance to the ruby, it often found its way into the crowns and jewelry of royalty, undistinguished from its more renowned counterpart. It wasn’t until the advent of modern gemology that spinels were identified as a separate gem group.
Found in regions like Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Tajikistan, the allure of Red Spinel, with its fiery brilliance, has only grown over the years, now recognized and celebrated for its intrinsic value.
Historical mentions of “rubies” in many royal collections might very well have been references to spinels. The famed “Black Prince’s Ruby” that adorns the British Imperial State Crown, for example, is, in fact, a Red Spinel.
Spiritual Meaning
The spiritual energy of Red Spinel is effervescent and invigorating. At its core, it is a stone of rejuvenation. Just as dawn dispels darkness and marks a fresh start, Red Spinel helps in the rebirth of one’s spiritual journey, bringing about new beginnings and perspectives.
Additionally, it serves as a beacon of inspiration, stimulating creativity and encouraging one to harness their inner muse. With its radiant aura, the stone also infuses one with vitality, acting as a reminder of the joy and zest of life.
Healing Properties
From a healing standpoint, Red Spinel is a powerhouse. It offers energy renewal, acting like a battery charger for the weary and instilling a fresh bout of vigor and enthusiasm. For those standing at a crossroads or facing significant challenges, Red Spinel is a catalyst in overcoming challenges, fostering determination, and igniting the passion to push through.
On a more ethereal level, the gem plays a role in aligning the physical and etheric bodies, ensuring harmony between the tangible and intangible aspects of one’s being.
Red Agate
Origin and History
Red Agate, a striking member of the agate family, possesses bands, swirls, and inclusions that make each specimen uniquely mesmerizing. Agates, as a whole, have been admired and utilized for millennia, with archaeological findings placing them in ancient civilizations dating as far back as the Neolithic period.
Red Agate, with its rich and warm hue, was particularly cherished by ancient cultures including the Greeks, Egyptians, and Sumerians. It has been used to craft amulets, seals, rings, and various artifacts, not just for its beauty but also for its believed protective properties.
The word “agate” is believed to have originated from the Achates River in Sicily, where many of these stones were originally found. Through trade and exploration, the popularity of agates, including Red Agate, spread globally, becoming embedded in various cultural and spiritual practices.
Spiritual Meaning
Rooted deeply in the energies of the Earth, Red Agate offers profound grounding. It serves as an anchor, helping individuals stay connected to their roots, making it a cherished gem for those seeking stability in tumultuous times. Red Agate is also synonymous with inner strength.
It amplifies the resilience of the spirit, enabling one to harness their inner power and face life’s challenges with unwavering determination. Additionally, the stone fosters emotional stability, making it a balm for turbulent emotions and aiding in achieving a calm, centered state of being.
Healing Properties
When it comes to healing, Red Agate is versatile and powerful. It is known for promoting courage. Whether one is stepping into unfamiliar territory, confronting fears, or embarking on a new venture, Red Agate acts as a supportive ally, bolstering bravery.
Its grounding nature also aids in overcoming negativity, acting as a shield against negative energies and thoughts. On the more expressive side, Red Agate is a muse, enhancing creativity. It stimulates the mind, encouraging novel ideas and fostering artistic expression.
Red Tourmaline (Rubellite)
Origin and History
Red Tourmaline, more popularly known as Rubellite, stands out brilliantly with its captivating range of pink to deep red hues. The name “Rubellite” derives from the Latin “rubellus,” meaning reddish, capturing the essence of its striking color. Tourmalines have been appreciated throughout history for their diverse range of colors and were often mistaken for other precious gems due to their brilliant translucence and hue variety.
It’s believed that the Spanish, in the 1500s, mistook Rubellite for ruby when they first discovered it in Brazil. The stone’s allure has crossed many cultures, from ancient Egypt to the last Empress of China, who cherished this gem.
Spiritual Meaning
At its core, Rubellite resonates deeply with the heart. It stands as a powerful symbol of heart healing, making it an essential companion for those seeking solace from emotional wounds.
Its gentle energies weave a cocoon of comfort, fostering emotional balance and helping one navigate the turbulent waters of feelings and sentiments. Beyond just healing, Rubellite radiates compassion—it encourages understanding, empathy, and love not only towards others but also towards oneself.
Healing Properties
From a healing standpoint, Rubellite is inextricably linked to the heart. It plays a pivotal role in revitalizing the heart chakra, ensuring an unobstructed flow of love and positive energies. This alignment aids in creating a sense of emotional and spiritual balance, acting as a counterweight to feelings of anxiety, fear, or resentment.
Beyond its heart-centric properties, Rubellite is a gem that fosters passion. Whether it’s passion in love, in one’s craft, or daily pursuits, the gem acts as a catalyst, reigniting the fire and zeal that might have waned.
Red Topaz
Origin and History
Red Topaz, a lesser-known but profoundly beautiful variant of the topaz family, sparkles with a deep fiery hue reminiscent of sunset’s embrace. While topaz, in general, has been treasured for millennia—having mentions in the Bible and being worn by ancient Egyptians in the belief that it was powered by the sun god, Ra—Red Topaz is a rarer find.
Historical sources indicate that this gem was favored among European royalty and the Russian Czarinas of the 18th and 19th centuries, who appreciated its fiery brilliance and depth.
The name “Topaz” is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit word “tapas,” meaning fire, or perhaps after the island Topazios in the Red Sea. Its history spans diverse cultures, each captivated by its radiant allure.
Spiritual Meaning
Red Topaz stands as a spiritual lighthouse. It is powerfully resonant with the energy of manifestation. Those who seek to turn dreams into reality will find a supportive ally in Red Topaz, for it amplifies intent and facilitates the manifestation process.
Alongside, its vibrant hue attracts positivity and abundance, making it a gemstone of attraction. But what truly sets it apart is its ability to bring clarity—it aids in dispelling confusion, helping one see their path and purpose with an unclouded vision.
Healing Properties
In the realm of healing, Red Topaz is invigorating. It plays a crucial role in boosting vitality, making it an ideal companion for those feeling drained or lethargic. Its energy does not just invigorate the body, but also the mind.
Red Topaz is known for assisting visualization, aiding meditation, and helping one envision their goals and aspirations. Furthermore, in decision-making scenarios, this gem proves invaluable as it aids in discernment, allowing its bearer to differentiate between what’s truly beneficial and what’s a mere illusion.
Red Amber
Origin and History
Red Amber is a resplendent and unique variation of amber, a fossilized tree resin cherished since ancient times. Characterized by its deep red hue, often with a fiery undertone, Red Amber is less common than its golden-yellow counterpart but is profoundly mesmerizing in its beauty.
Historically, amber has been revered by cultures worldwide, from the Neolithic times to the present. It has been found in archaeological digs of ancient civilizations, used as jewelry, amulets, and even in burial ceremonies.
The word “amber” is derived from the Arabic “anbar,” but the allure of amber—and especially its rarer red variant—spans continents. From the sunny shores of the Baltic Sea to the ancient trade routes of the Middle East, amber has been traded, treasured, and turned into art, with Red Amber often being considered particularly precious due to its rarity.
Spiritual Meaning
Red Amber, being the ancient sap of trees that has undergone millions of years of transformation, naturally holds the spiritual essence of purification and transformation. Just as the resin has transformed over eons into a gleaming gem, it prompts its bearer to undergo personal transformation, shedding old patterns and embracing growth.
Furthermore, with its deep, warm hue, Red Amber symbolizes the life force—the undying, ever-burning energy that powers life and drives passion.
Healing Properties
From a healing perspective, Red Amber has been lauded for its properties for millennia. Primarily, it is known for alleviating pain, especially for those suffering from joint problems or inflammation. Its warm energy is said to soothe and bring relief. Beyond physical healing, Red Amber acts as a shield, offering protection from negativity.
Whether it’s negative thoughts, energies, or external influences, this gem ensures they’re repelled from its wearer. Moreover, it plays a pivotal role in boosting self-confidence, resonating with one’s core to bring forth self-assurance, courage, and a sense of purpose.
Red Tiger’s Eye
Origin and History
Red Tiger’s Eye, a mesmerizing variant of the more commonly known golden Tiger’s Eye, is distinguished by its shimmering bands of red, maroon, and mahogany. This captivating gemstone is the result of the natural alteration of the original golden stone, often through heat or oxidation processes.
Historically, Tiger’s Eye has been a stone of protection and power, adorned by warriors and soldiers from the Roman era and even earlier civilizations. Found predominantly in regions of South Africa, India, and Australia, this stone’s unique chatoyancy—the cat-eye effect—has intrigued and attracted admirers for millennia.
Spiritual Meaning
The deep, warm hues of Red Tiger’s Eye hold profound spiritual resonance. This gem embodies the essence of motivation, lighting an internal fire that propels one to pursue their goals with unwavering zeal.
Additionally, it is a stone of empowerment, channeling the fierce energy of a tiger, instilling a sense of power, and the belief that one can overcome any obstacle. With this empowerment comes courage. Red Tiger’s Eye bolsters bravery, encouraging its wearers to face challenges head-on and to stand tall amidst adversities.
Healing Properties
In the realm of healing, Red Tiger’s Eye offers a myriad of benefits. It is known to enhance determination, making it a valuable companion for those who might be feeling directionless or overwhelmed by the weight of their ambitions. It acts as a catalyst, reigniting the drive and passion within.
Additionally, with its warm, fiery energy, it’s renowned for stimulating libido, rekindling the flames of passion and intimacy. Beyond these, Red Tiger’s Eye also plays a pivotal role in fostering a positive attitude. In the face of challenges or setbacks, this stone helps maintain an optimistic outlook, ensuring that one’s spirit remains buoyant and hopeful.
Red Obsidian
Origin and History
Red Obsidian, often referred to as “Mahogany Obsidian” due to its rich brownish-red hues, is a form of volcanic glass. It forms when molten lava cools rapidly, producing a stone with a smooth texture and vitreous luster. Obsidian, in general, has been utilized since prehistoric times, with early humans fashioning tools, weapons, and later, ornamental items from it.
Found in regions with volcanic activity, particularly in areas of the Americas, Red Obsidian was held in high esteem by ancient Mesoamerican civilizations like the Aztecs and the Maya, not just for its utility, but also for its spiritual significance.
Spiritual Meaning
At its core, Red Obsidian resonates with grounding and protective energies. The deep mahogany-red color channels the energy of the Earth’s core, symbolizing the deep-rooted connection between the individual and the Earth. As a spiritual tool, it serves as an anchor, grounding wandering energies and providing a sense of stability and security.
Moreover, Red Obsidian aids in unearthing latent strengths and passions, acting as a mirror to the soul and helping one confront their true self with honesty and clarity.
Healing Properties
From a healing standpoint, Red Obsidian is multifaceted. It is renowned for its ability to draw out emotional pain, facilitate a cathartic release, and allow for genuine healing to commence. The stone’s grounding nature provides a sense of security, aiding those who might be grappling with fears or insecurities.
Furthermore, Red Obsidian acts as a shield, protecting from negativity. Whether it’s external negative influences or self-deprecating thoughts, this stone helps repel them, fortifying the spirit. Additionally, its energy aids in stimulating growth on all levels, urging one to expand their horizons, embrace change, and strive for personal betterment.
Red Gemstones FAQs
Which gemstone is red in colour?
The ruby is a well-known gemstone that is primarily red in color, often recognized for its deep and vibrant hue.
What is the rarest red gemstone?
Red diamonds are considered the rarest red gemstones and are highly sought after for their unique color and rarity.
What is a precious red gemstone?
The ruby is classified as a precious red gemstone, esteemed for its hardness, durability, and brilliant red hue.
What gemstones are Burgundy?
Garnet and red spinel can exhibit a burgundy or deep wine-red hue, making them popular choices for those seeking this rich color in gemstones.