Katya is a young girl growing up in Russia in the palace of Prince Vronski. Her father is the prince's son's tutor. Ivan is a rebel and she is devoted to him. After Ivan's father is killed and they are forced to flee to Paris during the troubles in Russia, Ivan gives her a beautiful ruby intended for his father's mistress. Katya feels it is dangerous and fears it will bring ill luck - but despite herself she is fallin in love with her prince...