The name ruby comes from the Latin word ruber, which means red. It is favorite gem among those in power and those in love, inspiring more emotion than almost any other stone. Some ancient cultures believed that rubies, as well as other gemstones, grew on trees, just like fruit. The rubies would begin budding as small white gems, and would slowly grow and ripen, turning red in the light of the sun. When the ruby was saturated with red color, it was ready to be plucked. 

Ruby is said to give name, fame, vigor, virtue, warmth and the capacity to command to its user.

It can also raise the individual far above the status in which he was born. Historically, it has been symbolic of love and passion. This is normally red in color. Ruby is a hot stone.

On diseases front: Ruby helps cure peptic ulcer, fever, rheumatism, gout etc. However prolonged use may cause boils, itch, and insomnia as well.