Ruby has a Trigonal Crystal System and is in the mineral class of Oxide, the Corundum Family. It is formed magmatically as a liquid that is aluminum rich or during the metamorphosis of granite into crystalline slate or marble. Being part of the Corundum Family, it obtains its red color through the presence of chromium. When rutile needles are embedded in the Ruby asterism (star formations) are easily viewed.

The color of Ruby can include pink, crimson red, and orange red and occasionally a blue coloring. Found all over the world, some very nice specimens have been coming from India and Madagascar. Recently used as a conductor of sorts, it is said to provide a pathway to the earth and its user as an aid in understanding and actualization of how healing processes may be manifested.