July Birthstone: Ruby | Color, Meaning & History
July marks the start of a new month, bringing fireworks and festivities around the world. July is also the month of the fiery and passionate ruby. This precious gemstone has been revered by ancient and modern cultures alike, often being associated with strength, vitality, and love. In this article, we will explore the deep history and meaning behind the ruby, as well as its color characteristics, where it can be found, and how to care for this precious stone.
What Is The Meaning Of July Birthstone?
The ruby is said to possess numerous meanings and properties, and it has been revered in many cultures for thousands of years. In ancient cultures, the ruby was often associated with the Sun, and it was believed to bring clarity, improve health, and protect the wearer from evil spirits.
The ruby’s deep red color also symbolized passion, courage, and vitality, making it the perfect gemstone for lovers and warriors alike.
Aside from its physical and spiritual properties, the ruby also holds significant historical and cultural value. In ancient India, rubies were considered more valuable than diamonds and were often used as offerings to the gods.
In medieval Europe, rubies were believed to have healing powers and were used to treat various ailments such as liver problems and heart diseases.
Today, the ruby remains a popular gemstone for jewelry and is often given as a gift for special occasions such as weddings and anniversaries. It is also the birthstone for the month of July, and those born in this month are said to possess the ruby’s fiery passion and strength.
July Birthstone Color
The ruby is known for its deep, rich red color. The color of a ruby can vary depending on the location of the gemstone, as well as the presence of certain mineral impurities.
The most prized ruby colors are pigeon blood red, which is usually found in Burmese rubies, and the dark red color known as blood red. The color of the ruby is also influenced by its cut and clarity, which can affect its brilliance and overall appearance.
Rubies have been highly valued throughout history, and were even considered more valuable than diamonds in ancient times.
In Hindu culture, rubies were believed to protect the wearer from evil, while in medieval Europe, they were thought to have healing properties and were used to treat various ailments.
Today, rubies are still highly sought after and are often used in high-end jewelry. They are also used in industrial applications, such as in lasers and watchmaking. Rubies are a symbol of love and passion, making them a popular choice for engagement rings and other romantic jewelry.
What is July Birthstone?
The ruby is a member of the corundum family of minerals, which also includes sapphires. In its purest form, corundum is colorless, but with the presence of trace elements, it can take on a range of colors, including pink, yellow, and blue.
The ruby is a red variety of corundum and is one of the hardest minerals, with a Mohs hardness rating of 9. This makes it a durable gemstone that can withstand daily wear and tear.
Rubies have been highly valued throughout history, with ancient cultures believing that the gemstone had magical powers.
In Hindu mythology, rubies were believed to protect the wearer from evil, while in ancient Greece, they were associated with the god of wine and celebration, Dionysus. Today, rubies are still highly sought after and are often used in engagement rings and other fine jewelry pieces.
Where Is The Ruby Found?
Rubies can be found all over the world, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Thailand, and Tanzania.
The most valuable rubies come from Myanmar, which is home to the famous Mogok Valley. This location has produced some of the finest rubies in the world, featuring a deep, vivid red color and excellent clarity. Other notable sources of rubies are Thailand and Madagascar, which are known for their ruby deposits in secondary deposits.
In addition to these locations, rubies have also been found in Afghanistan, Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, India, Kenya, Mozambique, Nepal, Pakistan, and the United States.
In the United States, rubies have been discovered in Montana, North Carolina, and Wyoming. However, the quality and quantity of these rubies are generally lower than those found in other parts of the world.
Ruby Care And Cleaning
Caring for your ruby is relatively easy. To keep your ruby looking its best, avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, such as bleach or sulfuric acid, and store it separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching. You should also avoid exposing your ruby to extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature, as this can cause the stone to crack or break.
To clean your ruby, use warm water and mild soap, and dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth. It’s also a good idea to have your ruby professionally cleaned and inspected every year to ensure that it remains in optimal condition.
In addition to these basic care and cleaning tips, there are a few other things you can do to keep your ruby looking its best. For example, you may want to consider having your ruby treated with a special coating or sealant to help protect it from scratches and other damage.
You can also invest in a high-quality jewelry box or storage case to keep your ruby safe and secure when you’re not wearing it.
Finally, it’s important to remember that rubies are not indestructible, and they can be damaged or even destroyed if they are not cared for properly. If you notice any cracks, chips, or other signs of damage on your ruby, it’s important to have it repaired as soon as possible by a professional jeweler who specializes in working with precious gemstones.
Conclusion
The ruby is a beautiful and cherished gemstone that has been prized for thousands of years. Its rich history, deep red color, and resilience make it the perfect gemstone for those who want to showcase their passion and strength. Whether you’re a July baby or just looking for a stunning piece of jewelry, the ruby is an excellent choice that will continue to dazzle and captivate for generations to come.
It is interesting to note that rubies are not only valued for their beauty, but also for their supposed healing properties. In ancient times, rubies were believed to have the power to heal and protect the wearer from harm. Even today, some people believe that wearing a ruby can help improve circulation, boost energy levels, and promote overall well-being. While there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, the allure of the ruby as a symbol of strength and vitality continues to endure.
