The ruby mines of Myanmar are older than recorded history. Stone Age and Bronze Age mining tools have been found in the mining area of Mogok. Other sources of ruby throughout the ages inclide Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Afghanistan, Brazil and Cambodia.

The most famous source of fine quality rubies is Burma, which is now called Myanmar. Rubies of exceptional color quality, "pigeon's blood" red, are often called Burmese rubies, regardless of origin.

Ground up rubies were once used as a remedy for stomach ailments. Religious institutions, aristocracy and royalty have long admired rubies. England's Prince Andrew chose a ruby engagement ring for Sarah Ferguson.