Distinguished by their deep blood-red colour, rubies rank as the world’s second most precious stones, after diamonds. Their ruddy colour among a sparkling sea of hues and cuts upholds their fiery symbolism of passion and romance. The beauty of jewellery watches lies in their exquisite gem setting, where varied cuts are placed front and centre for pure aesthetics. For instance, baguette-cut rubies would dominate the colour palette, while brilliant-cut ones are more subtle yet dainty, depending on taste.
But beyond the glittering surface, rubies also have a functional use. In mechanical watches, rubies are used as jewel bearings — a jewelled pivot hole where a metal spindle is connected, commonly used in mechanical movements. Though most bearings nowadays are made of synthetic rubies, they are favoured over ordinary metal for their long life and high accuracy. Nonetheless, these jewels also deserve an exhibition. Dots of vermilion are showcased through skeleton dials and sapphire crystals, some even sitting at heart’s centre.
Image opener: Diamond Ribbon Joaillerie Ref. 4968/400R-001, PATEK PHILIPPE




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