The Secret Power of Ruby, July's Birthstone

July’s Birthstone: Ruby – The King of Gems

Ruby, the birthstone for July, is one of the most coveted and iconic gemstones in the world. With its intense red hue and rich symbolism, ruby has captured hearts across centuries and cultures. Often referred to as the “king of gems,” the ruby symbolizes love, passion, protection, and prosperity. Whether worn as a talisman, an engagement ring, or a luxurious fashion statement, ruby's allure is timeless.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the history, symbolism, science, and style of rubies—everything you need to know about this brilliant birthstone.

A Glimpse Into the History of Rubies

The name “ruby” comes from the Latin word ruber, meaning red. Ancient cultures admired rubies not just for their beauty but also for their perceived mystical qualities.

Rubies in Ancient Cultures

In ancient India, rubies were called ratnaraj, which means “king of precious stones.” They were considered so valuable that Sanskrit texts referred to offerings of rubies to Krishna in exchange for rebirth as an emperor.

In Burma (modern-day Myanmar), warriors believed rubies made them invincible in battle. They would even embed rubies beneath their skin to gain protection.

Medieval Europeans associated rubies with power and health. Royalty and clergy wore rubies to promote vitality, ward off plague, and even detect poison.

The Ruby Trade Through Time

Rubies have been traded for thousands of years. The ancient Silk Road served as a route for ruby trade between Asia and Europe. Burmese rubies, in particular, gained fame for their pure, vibrant red color—a hue that became the standard by which all other rubies are judged.

The Science Behind the Sparkle

Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum. When pure, corundum is colorless, but the presence of trace elements like chromium gives rubies their red color.

Color: The Heart of the Ruby

The most prized rubies are a rich, pure red with a hint of blue—known as “pigeon blood” red. This term originated in Burma and refers to the vivid color of the central drop of a freshly killed pigeon. While the phrase is poetic, it's also a benchmark for the most desirable ruby hue.

Color in rubies can range from orangey-red to purplish-red. The quality of the red depends on the amount of chromium and the stone’s internal structure.

Durability

Rubies score a 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, second only to diamonds. This makes them ideal for everyday wear, especially in rings and bracelets. Their toughness and resistance to scratching are among the reasons rubies are so highly valued.

Treatments and Enhancements

Most rubies on the market today are heat-treated to enhance their color and clarity. This is an accepted industry standard and doesn’t significantly impact value. However, untreated rubies, especially those with exceptional color and clarity, can command premium prices.

Other treatments, like lead-glass filling to improve transparency, are more controversial and significantly reduce a ruby’s value. Always ask for certification when purchasing a ruby, particularly a high-value one.

Symbolism and Spiritual Meaning

Rubies have been associated with a wide array of powerful attributes throughout history.

Love and Passion

Ruby’s fiery color has long symbolized intense emotions. It’s often associated with love, passion, and power. In engagement rings, rubies represent a passionate and enduring love—an alternative to traditional diamond solitaires.

Protection and Courage

In ancient times, people believed rubies could protect them from harm. Warriors wore rubies for protection in battle. In more modern spiritual practices, rubies are said to protect against negative energy and promote courage.

Wealth and Prosperity

Rubies have also been linked to wealth and success. In Eastern cultures, rubies were believed to attract prosperity and good fortune. Even today, ruby jewelry is often worn during important financial decisions or celebrations as a symbol of abundance.

Ruby Mining: From Earth to Elegance

Major Sources

Historically, the most famous rubies came from Burma (now Myanmar), especially from the Mogok Valley. These stones are renowned for their pure, saturated color.

Today, rubies are also mined in:

• Thailand – especially in the Chanthaburi and Trat provinces.
• Sri Lanka – known for producing pinkish rubies.
• Mozambique – one of the world’s leading modern sources, known for high-quality stones.
• Tanzania – particularly the Winza and Longido regions.
• Vietnam – especially in the Luc Yen and Quy Chau areas.

Ethical and Sustainable Mining

With increased awareness of ethical sourcing, more consumers are seeking rubies that are responsibly mined. Reputable jewelers and dealers often provide certificates of origin or partner with mines that follow ethical labor and environmental practices.

Famous Rubies in History

The Liberty Bell Ruby

Weighing four pounds and made from the largest mined ruby in the U.S., the Liberty Bell Ruby is one of the most famous in the world. Sadly, it was stolen in 2011 and remains missing.

The Sunrise Ruby

This 25.59-carat Burmese ruby sold for over $30 million at a Sotheby’s auction in 2015. Its "pigeon blood" color and lack of treatment contributed to its record-breaking price, making it the most expensive colored gemstone ever sold at auction.

Elizabeth Taylor’s Ruby Suite

Elizabeth Taylor owned an incredible collection of rubies, including a ruby and diamond necklace, ring, and earrings from Cartier. The set, gifted by her third husband, Mike Todd, became iconic, and when auctioned, fetched millions.

Ruby in Jewelry Design

Classic and Modern Styles

Rubies are incredibly versatile in jewelry design. They’re used in everything from classic Victorian pieces to sleek modern styles.

• Engagement Rings: Rubies provide a romantic and bold alternative to diamonds.
• Cocktail Rings: A ruby surrounded by diamonds makes for a dazzling statement.
• Tennis Bracelets and Eternity Bands: Alternating rubies and diamonds provide a stunning, timeless look.
• Necklaces and Pendants: Ruby pendants are both luxurious and meaningful.
• Earrings: Ruby studs or drops offer a pop of color for any occasion.

Ruby and Metal Pairings

Rubies pair beautifully with various metals:

• Yellow Gold: Enhances the ruby’s warmth.
• White Gold and Platinum: Provides contrast that makes the ruby pop.
• Rose Gold: Offers a romantic, harmonious blend with pinkish rubies.

Ruby Care and Maintenance

Rubies are relatively easy to care for thanks to their hardness, but proper maintenance ensures their beauty lasts generations.

Cleaning

• Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners if your ruby has been fracture-filled.
• For high-value rubies, consider professional cleaning periodically.

Storage

Store rubies separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches, especially softer ones like opals or pearls. Use a soft cloth pouch or lined jewelry box.

Buying Rubies: What to Look For

When purchasing a ruby—especially as a birthstone or investment—keep the "Four Cs" in mind, similar to diamonds:

1. Color

Color is the most critical factor. Look for vibrant red hues with good saturation. Avoid overly dark or overly pale stones.

2. Clarity

Most rubies contain some inclusions. Eye-clean rubies (no visible inclusions) are rare and valuable. Some inclusions can even prove the stone’s natural origin.

3. Cut

A well-cut ruby will display optimal brilliance and color. Because rubies are often cut to maximize color rather than ideal proportions, shapes may vary.

4. Carat Weight

Larger rubies are exponentially rarer and more expensive. A 2-carat ruby can be significantly more valuable than a 2-carat diamond of similar quality.

Ruby: The Perfect Gift for July Birthdays

Giving a ruby as a birthday gift is more than a tradition—it’s a meaningful gesture. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or milestone, ruby jewelry offers timeless beauty and emotional resonance.

Popular Gift Ideas

• Birthstone Rings: Perfect for daily wear and personal connection.
• Customized Name Necklaces with Ruby Accents: A thoughtful, personalized option.
• Ruby Stud Earrings: Elegant and universally flattering.
• Ruby Tennis Bracelets: A luxurious take on a classic design.

Conclusion: Why Ruby Reigns Supreme

Rubies have been cherished for millennia—and it’s easy to see why. Their rich red color, symbolic power, durability, and rarity make them one of the most desirable gemstones in the world. As July’s birthstone, the ruby is a fitting emblem for passion, strength, and beauty.

Whether you’re shopping for a loved one or treating yourself, ruby jewelry is more than a dazzling accessory—it’s a lasting legacy.

If you’re searching for timeless, authentic ruby pieces, be sure to explore curated collections from trusted jewelers. Whether it’s a vintage heirloom or a contemporary design, a ruby is always a brilliant choice.