July Birthstone Ruby: Meaning, Types, Quality And Buying Guide

What Is the Birthstone for July?

July's birthstone is ruby, and only ruby. July has just one birthstone, in contrast to many other months that have two or even three possibilities. Ruby's powerful individuality and unparalleled position in the gemstone industry are reflected in this exclusivity.

The Latin word ruber, which signifies red, is where the name "ruby" originates. This gemstone's color is precisely red, yet it can vary from a delicate pinkish-red to a rich, deep crimson. According to science, ruby is actually a red sapphire. The same mineral, corundum, is used to make both sapphire and ruby. The color is what makes the distinction.

Symbolism And Ancient Meaning of the July Birthstone

Although the red heart represents the idea of love, this hasn't always been the case. In reality, the connection with the heart didn't start until the Middle Ages. However, the story of the ruby has been dominated by love and the heart for at least 500 years.

Frequently cut in the shape of a heart, it's easy to understand how we arrived at that conclusion, given how desirable pure red stones are. The Bible states that the first stone on the High Priest's breastplate was a ruby. The Tribe of Reuven was symbolized by it. It is thought that Ruby aids in birthing.

Where Rubies Are Found

In the history of ruby mining, South East Asia has been crucial. Some of the most prized rubies in the world, renowned for their vibrant color and beauty, have been produced in this area for centuries. The border region between Thailand and Cambodia gained popularity in the early 20th century for producing very high-quality rubies.

The worldwide ruby market during this period was shaped by these stones, which were traded extensively. Later, Vietnam became a significant supplier of rubies with good clarity and rich color. Mozambique has also emerged as an important player in recent years, delivering rubies that are more often utilized in high-end jewelry. One nation has continuously outperformed the others in spite of all these factors. That is Burma.

Why Burmese Rubies Are the Most Famous

Burma, which is now the Republic of Myanmar, has been regarded as the center of exquisite ruby production for over 500 years. Particularly known for producing rubies with amazing natural brightness and color depth is the famous Mogok Valley. Burma, which is now the Republic of Myanmar, has been regarded as the center of exquisite ruby production for over 500 years.

The delicate red fluorescence of Burmese rubies is what really sets them apart. Even in low light, the stone's hue is enhanced by its natural glow, giving it a rich, almost luminous appearance. Because of this, Burmese rubies tend to be said to contain a "living fire."  Burmese rubies are still considered the gold standard in the ruby industry because of their history, exceptional color, and rarity.

Ruby is one of the most interesting and unique gemstones found in nature, with largely different color tones and features depending on the region.

Physical Properties Of Ruby

Ruby belongs to the same family of minerals as sapphire, corundum. From a chemical perspective, sapphire and ruby are nearly the same. The actual distinction is caused by trace elements that were present during formation. Iron and titanium traces give sapphire its blue hue. Chromium is the source of ruby's red hue. Ruby gets its unique deep red tone from this one element.

How Ruby Gets Its Red Hue

Although entirely colorless corundum crystals are incredibly uncommon in nature, pure corundum is indeed colorless. Corundum absorbs tiny quantities of elements from the surrounding rock during its formation. When chromium is incorporated into the crystal structure, it produces the stunning red hue of rubies.

When exposed to light, it creates a natural red glow that makes the stone appear brighter and more captivating. One of the reasons beautiful rubies appear to shine from within is this luminescence.

Basalt vs. Marble: the importance of Origin

Rubies are commonly found in marble and basalt rocks, and the appearance of the stone is influenced by the host rock. Rubies preserved in marble typically have lower iron levels. Stronger fluorescence and a purer red color are the outcomes. Rubies stored by basalt frequently have higher iron levels.

As a result, the tone becomes somewhat darker or purple, which may make it less appealing. For this reason, rubies with low iron content and high chromium are valued more.

Ruby's Amazing Strength

Ruby is one of the hardest natural gemstones, second only to diamond, with a Mohs hardness grade of 9. Because of its extreme hardness, ruby is very resistant to wear and scratches. Rubies are a great option for everyday jewelry like rings, bracelets, and engagement pieces because of their strength.

They are durable and useful because they don't need to be handled carefully and maintain their beauty over time.

Ruby's Function Outside of Jewelry

In addition to being highly valued in jewelry, ruby is critical for science. A significant technological advance occurred in 1960 when the world's first laser was made using a ruby crystal. Although synthetic rubies are now widely utilized for industrial purposes, rubies are still vital for laser applications.

Ruby is frequently regarded by gemologists as one of the greatest jewels ever found because of the combination of strength, beauty, and science.

Diverse Colors Of July Birthstone

Although rubies are identifiable by their red hue, not all rubies have the same appearance. A simple alteration in the red tone can produce a variety of hues that impact value and attractiveness. Ruby colors are often divided into three primary categories by skilled gemologists and jewelers:

• Reddish-pink
• Red
• Reddish-purple

Every tint has a unique market value and attraction.

Pinkish-Red Rubies

The primary hue of pinkish red rubies is red with a hint of pink. From light to dark, the intensity might vary. Rose pink rubies are a common name for light pinkish-red stones. Deep magenta rubies are stones that are dark pinkish-red in color.

It's crucial to remember that, depending on how intense the red hue appears, very light pink stones may occasionally be categorized as sapphires rather than rubies. Although these rubies are delicate and attractive, they are typically not as costly as deeper red stones.

The Red Rubies

The most traditional and expensive kind of rubies are red ones. They reveal a vivid red hue with no noticeable secondary tones. These rubies may show up:

• A pale red
• Red in the middle
• Red in the dark

The most costly of these are medium-red rubies. Rich in color yet neither too dark nor too pale, they achieve the ideal harmony. When most people think of a fine ruby, this is the color that comes to mind.

Purple-colored Red Rubies

Both titanium and chromium are present in purplish red rubies. The ruby's red hue comes from chromium. A faint purple tone is added by titanium. Red is still the predominant color even in this mixture. Particularly in medium to dark hues, these rubies frequently appear deeper and richer. Medium and dark purplish red rubies are particularly common in fine jewelry due to their attractiveness.

The Significance of Ruby Color

The most crucial element in judging a ruby's beauty and worth is its color. Knowing these color groups gives you the confidence to select a ruby because even slight changes in hue can have a significant impact on price.

Rubies of different kinds

Rubies can take many different forms, but their kind is typically determined by factors such as origin, color quality, or unique optical characteristics. Every variety has a unique look, level of rarity, and cost. The most well-liked and highly sought-after rubies found in fine jewelry are listed below.

Rubies from Burma

Burmese rubies, which originate in Myanmar (formerly Burma), are regarded as the standard for superior rubies. These stones are renowned for:

• Deep, rich crimson hue
• high concentration of chromium
• Strong fluorescence in nature

Minor inclusions are common and even appreciated in almost all natural Burmese rubies. Instead of decreasing the stone's value, these impurities enhance its character and serve as proof of its natural origin.

Red Rubies with Pigeon Blood

The world's rarest and most valuable rubies are pigeon blood rubies. They are characterized by:

• Vibrant, pure red
• There are no obvious secondary tones, such as orange or purple.
• Outstanding saturation and brightness

Pigeon blood rubies are very valuable in high-end and heritage jewelry and earn the highest prices per carat due to their rarity.

The Star Rubies

When viewed in direct light, star rubies produce a rare optical phenomenon known as asterism, which is a star-shaped reflection.

• A clear six-rayed star is displayed by the best star rubies.
• Needle-like inclusions within the stone are what produce the look.
• Value is greatly increased by stronger, focused stars.

To emphasize the star look, these rubies are typically cut into cabochons.

Rubies from Africa

African rubies have grown in value on the international market and are mostly produced in Mozambique and Kenya. Usually, they have:

• Tones of medium to dark red
• Purplish undertones on occasion
• Several sizes and quality levels

In terms of color and beauty, premium Mozambique rubies, in particular, may compete with Burmese rubies, often at a lower cost.

Thai Rubies

Thai rubies have a deeper, darker color because they contain both iron and chromium.

• Usually have a rich red to slightly brownish-red appearance.
• Reduced fluorescence in contrast to Burmese rubies
• Originally, Bangkok, a significant gem hub, was used for trading.

Customers who want strong, dramatic color tones are drawn to these rubies.

Madagascar Rubies

Rubies from Madagascar are mined in areas like Vatomandry and Andilamena. These stones are known for:

• Reddish-brown, orange-red, and pure red shades
• Good clarity and consistent quality
• Growing popularity of modern jewelry designs

Madagascar rubies offer a balance of beauty, availability, and value.

Afghanistan Rubies

Afghan rubies are mined from regions such as Jagdalek and Badakhshan.

• Jagdalek rubies range from light red to deep crimson
• Each mine produces stones with distinct characteristics
• Often valued for their natural, untreated appearance

These rubies stand out for their uniqueness and regional identity.

Ruby's Spiritual and Emotional Connections

Ruby has long been associated with the heart chakra, which is linked with courage, love, and balance in emotions. Ruby is thought by many to be a good approach to reawaken suppressed emotions, boost self-esteem, and ignite passion.

The stone is also connected to rejuvenation and new vitality. It is often regarded as a gem of rebirth, helping the wearer to let go of emotional burdens and proceed with more clarity. Ruby has been used in spiritual activities to encourage confidence without instability and to help with grounding, particularly while making emotionally charged decisions.

Ruby and Zodiac Ties

Ruby is typically associated with Cancer (June 21–July 22), a sign of the zodiac characterized by intense feelings, loyalty, and keen perception. Ruby is thought to:

• Encourage the expression of emotions
• Boost self-assurance
• Provide defense for sensitive, compassionate personalities.

Because of its bright red color and affiliation with the sun, some astrologers also link rubies to Leo.

Which Properties Affect Rubies' Quality?

The four Cs, Color, Clarity, Carat, and Cut, are used to assess rubies, just like diamonds. But color is more important to rubies than anything else. Knowing these elements makes it easier to understand why the value of two rubies of the same size might vary dramatically.

Color (The Most Crucial Element)

The primary factor when assessing a ruby's quality and cost is its color. The best rubies exhibit:

• Vibrant, pure red
• Not too bright nor too dark
• Vibrant saturation without being boring

Because of its rarity, this perfect shade is the most expensive. Although they are still lovely, rubies with obvious pink, purple, or orange undertones are often worth less than pure red stones.

Clarity

Inclusions are present in the majority of natural rubies. A ruby without inclusions is actually very uncommon and usually indicates a fake stone. Natural rubies of superior quality usually have:

• "Silk" is the term for tiny, intersecting inclusions.
• Inclusions that are not visible
• No large fractures that compromise longevity or brightness

Rarely, silk can produce an asterism, or star effect, which greatly raises the value of the ruby. But impurities should never dominate the stone or give it an unnatural appearance.

Weight in carats

Larger-sized rubies are more uncommon than diamonds, particularly when they are of excellent grade.

• One carat is equivalent to 0.2 grams.
• Rubies weighing more than one carat are rare.
• Price increases dramatically with size, especially if the color is still vibrant.

Good color and clarity make a 5-carat ruby extremely rare and costly, so it's both noticeable and collectible.

Cut

Cutters must use caution to maintain color and weight because ruby crystals naturally take on a variety of shapes. The following are the most common ruby cuts:

• Oval
• A cushion

These forms minimize weight loss while enhancing color and shine. Less frequent cuts consist of:

• A round
• Pear
• Marquise
• The Emerald

Even though the stone is smaller, a well-cut ruby emphasizes color, sparkle, and balance.

Overall 

Ruby is a classic symbol for strength, beauty, and worth. It has exceptional depth as the birthstone for July, from its rich red shade and mythical beginnings to its durability, profound value, and diversity of varieties. Ruby is still one of the most potent gemstones in the world, whether it is picked for its color, cultural significance, spiritual link, or everyday wearability.

Ruby is more than simply a gemstone; it's an important declaration of style and narrative. Knowing its colors, quality aspects, and origins will help you select a piece that feels unique and enduring.

FAQS: July Birthstone

What are the two birthstones for July?

The only known birthstone for July is traditionally ruby. But carnelian is also mentioned as a substitute in some contemporary lists. However, ruby continues to be the most well-known and traditionally accepted birthstone for July worldwide.

Who cannot wear a ruby stone?

Ruby contains a lot of energy, thus it might not be suitable for those who are extremely impulsive, aggressive, or emotionally unstable. Before wearing rubies regularly, astrologers urge those with specific astrological problems to speak with an expert.

What is the lucky stone for July?

For those born in July, rubies are thought to be the lucky stone. It is a potent gemstone for people born in this month since it is thought to offer self-assurance, vitality, protection, and emotional fortitude.

Does Ruby attract money?

Ruby is thought to draw recognition, success, and leadership chances, all of which can incidentally help in economic expansion. It is linked to drive, self-assurance, and ambition, qualities that contribute to long-term prosperity, rather than immediate gain.

What energy does a ruby give off?

Ruby radiates a powerful, flaming, and exciting vitality. It helps the wearer feel inspired, grounded, and confident in both personal and professional decisions since it is linked to passion, courage, emotional strength, and energy.