birthstone

Ruby, the birthstone for July, is one of the most beloved gemstones in the world. Its name comes from the Latin word ruber, which means “red”—the color of love and passion. Few gemstones are as captivating as the ruby, with its fiery red hue symbolizing both vitality and romance.

The Symbolism of Ruby: The Stone of Love

Ruby’s intense red color has long been associated with love, making it a symbol of passion, energy, and vitality. It’s often referred to as the “love stone,” with centuries of belief linking it to good health, long life, and prosperous love. Ancient legends say that those who wear rubies are blessed with a happy, harmonious family life.

Ruby, the gemstone of July, holds a special place in the world of precious stones. Revered for its beauty and durability, ruby is considered one of the most expensive colored gemstones, second only to diamonds in terms of value per carat.

Ruby: A Gem with a Rich History and Fascinating Geology

Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, which gains its vibrant red color from traces of chromium. The more chromium present, the deeper and more intense the red hue becomes. Some rubies exhibit a red fluorescence, making them appear even more radiant under UV light, such as sunlight.

Rubies can form in different geological environments. Some are found in marble, where heat and pressure cause the minerals in limestone to crystallize. These rubies are highly prized for their bright red color and strong fluorescence, as they contain a high concentration of chromium and very little iron.

Others are found in basalt, a type of volcanic rock formed when lava cools and solidifies. Rubies in basalt typically have more iron, which results in a deeper red color and a lack of fluorescence. There are also rubies formed in gneiss, a type of metamorphic rock, offering a balance between the brightness of marble rubies and the depth of basalt rubies.

Rubies are not only appreciated for their striking appearance but also for their exceptional hardness. With a Mohs hardness of 9, rubies are second only to diamonds in durability, making them perfect for daily wear in rings and other jewelry.

The History and Legends of Ruby

As one of the most treasured gemstones, ruby has a rich history steeped in mysticism and symbolism. Its resemblance to blood led ancient civilizations to believe it could stop bleeding and heal wounds. The ruby was also thought to calm temper and treat inflammatory diseases. In Burma, warriors believed that rubies could provide them with invincibility in battle, while medieval Europeans associated the stone with health, wealth, wisdom, and successful love.

Beyond its role as the July birthstone, ruby is also a traditional gift for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries.

Famous Ruby Jewelry

The most famous ruby jewelry piece in history is undoubtedly the Harry Winston Ruby Slippers. Created by the House of Harry Winston to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the movie The Wizard of Oz, these slippers were encrusted with 4,600 rubies weighing around 1,350 carats. In 1989, they were valued at $3 million.

Throughout history, rubies have been revered as the "king of gemstones." Their rarity and beauty make them an exceptional addition to any jewelry collection, symbolizing power, wealth, and prestige. Rubies are not only prized for their beauty but also for their enduring value. The most exceptional rubies are often rarer and more difficult to find than the finest diamonds, cementing their status as one of the most coveted gemstones in the world.

Conclusion: Why Choose Ruby for Your Jewelry

Whether you're celebrating a July birthday or marking a special anniversary, ruby jewelry is a timeless choice. Its rich history, stunning color, and unmatched durability make it a perfect symbol of love, passion, and prosperity. Whether worn as an engagement ring, a necklace, or a bracelet, a ruby piece is sure to captivate and impress for generations to come.

Choose ruby, and embrace the elegance and energy of this magnificent birthstone, adding both beauty and meaning to your jewelry collection.