- The meaning of the Macedonian ruby becomes even greater in the current broader political context when we are faced with external attempts to arbitrarily interpret the Macedonian identity. In that context, the protection of the Macedonian ruby becomes an act of affirmation of Macedonian landmarks and national treasures, in addition to strengthening the feeling of patriotism and love for the homeland.
The ruby is part of the wider struggle for Macedonia to define and present its values to the world. Therefore, the decision on its protected status deserves attention that goes beyond scientific activity
We protected the Macedonian ruby! This important information was shared by the Minister of Energy, Sanja Božinovska, at a media briefing these days, announcing that the ministry has received the decision officially protecting the Macedonian ruby as a unique semi-precious stone, which is the result of the activities for the realization of that goal that began last year. This act should put an end to the unregulated exploitation of this rare mineral, which for years was extracted as a by-product during the exploitation of marble in the Prilep region and on the mountains in Mariovo.
One can write endlessly about the almost magical beauty and uniqueness of the Macedonian ruby, because one gets the impression that even adorning it with the most impressive epithets is not enough to reliably describe its appearance and significance for Macedonia.
The Macedonian ruby is a variety of corundum with an exceptional raspberry pink color, whose intensity and vibrancy are due to the presence of chromium ions in the crystal lattice. This specific mineral combination gives it a unique luster and depth, which sets it apart from other rubies in the world. Its deposits are concentrated in the surroundings of Prilep and in the harsh but majestic mountains of Mariovo. It is there, in the heart of Macedonia, that the only natural ruby in mainland Europe is born, which is not only mined but also processed locally. This geographical and mineral rarity turns Macedonia into an exceptional point on the world mineralogical map.
In addition to its aesthetic and collectible value, the Macedonian ruby is part of the cultural and historical heritage of the country – a symbol of natural beauty and national pride. With its color, which is associated with blood and fire, it becomes a metaphor for the life force and spiritual depth of the Macedonian people. It is a bridge between nature and culture, between material and spiritual heritage, and that is why it deserves to be protected as part of the national identity.
All these are excerpts from texts published in “Nova Makedonija” with which we highlighted the importance of the semi-precious stone, which officially represents a national brand for which we need to create our success story. We have been talking about the unused potential of this country for a long time, so let the status of the Macedonian ruby be an occasion and incentive to brand other natural rarities and quality Macedonian national products, such as marble (for which there is also an initiative), wines, honey…
The French did it a long time ago with champagne, the Italians with parmesan, the Indians with tea, the Norwegians with salmon, New Zealand with manuka honey… turning them into brands that bring them millions of euros in annual revenue. The value of all these products comes not only from the quality and features of the product, but also from the story, tradition, protection and national strategy behind it.
But the significance of the Macedonian ruby becomes even greater in the current wider political context when we are faced with external attempts to arbitrarily interpret the Macedonian identity. They are also present during the publication of reports on the country’s progress towards the European Union, which are followed by arguments that are perceived by the Macedonian public as additional political pressure on the country. In that context, the protection of the Macedonian ruby becomes an act of affirmation of Macedonian landmarks and national treasures, in addition to strengthening the feeling of patriotism and love for the homeland. The ruby is part of the wider struggle for Macedonia to define and present its values to the world. Therefore, the decision on its protected status deserves attention that goes beyond scientific activity. At a time when the world is flooded with almost identical products, uniqueness becomes the most expensive and valued.
