Month of July - Ruby
Ruby, the birthstone for July, is often called the king of gemstones. This fiery red gem has captivated humanity for centuries with its intense color and exceptional brilliance. Rubies are said to guarantee health, wisdom, wealth, and success in love, making them a powerful symbol of passion and vitality.
History and Origin
The word ruby comes from the Latin rubeus, meaning red. In ancient Sanskrit, ruby was called ratnaraj, meaning king of precious stones. Rubies have been prized throughout history by rulers and warriors, who believed the stone granted invincibility in battle. Ancient Hindus offered rubies to the god Krishna in the hope of being reborn as emperors. The legendary rubies of Myanmar, formerly Burma, have set the standard for quality for centuries. The Mogok Valley, known as the Valley of Rubies, has produced some of the finest specimens ever discovered.
Symbolism and Meaning
Ruby symbolizes love, passion, courage, and protection. In medieval Europe, rubies were believed to guarantee health, wealth, wisdom, and success in love. The deep red color has long been associated with the life force of blood, and many cultures believed rubies held the power of life itself. Warriors in Burma implanted rubies into their skin before battle, believing the stones made them invincible. Today, ruby remains one of the most emotionally significant colored gemstones, making it an ideal gift for those born in July.
Colors and Varieties
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, the same species as sapphire. What distinguishes ruby from sapphire is its red color, caused by the presence of chromium. The most prized color is a vivid, medium-dark red with a slight purplish hue, known in the trade as pigeon blood red. If the stone is too light or leans too heavily toward pink, it may be classified as a pink sapphire rather than a ruby. Rubies can also display a phenomenon called asterism, where a six-pointed star appears to float across the surface of a cabochon-cut stone, creating the prized star ruby.
Durability and Care
Ruby ranks 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it the second hardest natural gemstone after diamond. This exceptional hardness makes ruby an excellent choice for everyday jewelry, including engagement rings. Heat treatment is the most common enhancement for rubies and is widely accepted in the gem trade to improve color and clarity. Rubies can be safely cleaned with warm soapy water or an ultrasonic cleaner.
The finest rubies come from Myanmar, Mozambique, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka. Whether set in a classic solitaire ring or a vintage-inspired pendant, a ruby is a bold and meaningful July birthday gift that speaks of deep love and lasting strength.