ruby is the july birthstone. A beautiful gemstone whose name derives from the Latin «ruber» which means red. And to which the ancient Hindus called «King of gems». For being one of the five cardinal gems along with the amethyst, the diamond, the sapphire and the emerald.
Although this classification given by the ceremonial or religious use and its rarity, it fell into disuse. Even today and due to its characteristics, it is still a highly appreciated gem in the world of jewelry. Where it is considered one of the most expensive and beautiful. Especially for its representative fiery red color, its hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale and its vitreous shine.
However, if we also consider the cut and the carat weight the july birthstone it can reach a value higher than that of a diamond of the same size.
Other ruby gemological data
Gemologically, ruby is a crystalline variation of aluminum oxide that belongs to the corundum family. Of which there are two main varieties: the ruby that identifies the red variety. While corundums of any color other than red are classified as sapphires.
The ruby owes its beautiful red color to the presence of chrome in its composition. Although, although most rubies are dark red, some specimens can vary in color. So it is possible that they range from a pinkish hue to orange, purple and brownish red.
But in the world of jewelry its most desirable color is known as «pigeon blood». Which is a pure red with a hint of blue, only found mainly in the mines of Myanmar (Burma) and Thailand. Another characteristic that rubies have is their marked pleochroism. Therefore, it will show a lighter and more intense color depending on the angle at which it is viewed.
Likewise, within the classification we also have the «Star Rubies», which are rubies that present an asterism. This is due to small rutile inclusions that make a polished gem exhibit this particular characteristic. Something that becomes doubly appreciated if it is a transparent ruby.
Star ruby usually exists in six-rayed stars, although twelve-rayed star rubies are also known. In general, transparent rubies are the most valued. While opaque or semi-opaque rubies have a relatively small value, even if they have asterism.
July Birthstone in Jewelry
It is no secret to anyone that ruby is one of the most popular and highly valued gemstones among colored stones. Since it has a crystalline, tabular and flat hexagonal shape that makes it ideal for various ornamental cuts. Therefore, it is not uncommon to find rubies in rings, necklaces, earrings and other forms of jewelry.
Especially ruby is used as a central gemstone in pendants and rings. And also as a secondary stone to complement other gemstones such as diamond. Therefore, today many rubies are an essential part of royal regalia and other famous jewelery around the world.
However, since ancient times they have also adorned crowns, armor and sword pommels. Seeking thus to take advantage of their energy, encourage courage, have success, wealth and love.
On the other hand, although since 1912 the jewelers of America officially adopted the ruby as the july birthstone. Before date both onyx and turquoise were considered the birthstones for this month. Similarly, in addition to being the july birthstone. Ruby is ideal for 15th and 40th wedding anniversary gifts.
Some curious facts about the Ruby
Before gemstones could be gemologically identified, specifically until the early 19th century, other stones that also possess reddish tones such as spinel and rhodolite were mistaken for rubies.
Thanks to advances in gemological instrumentation, some famous specimens such as the ‘Black Prince’s Ruby’ and ‘Timur Ruby’ present in the British Crown Jewels, and were believed to be rubies. After being analyzed it was discovered that they were actually spinels.
The first synthetic ruby was created in a laboratory in 1902. The creation process is known as the Verneuil process. It was thanks to this, that in 1960, a «ruby» was used. Verneuil” for the manufacture of the primer. «To be» .
It is worth mentioning that only expert jewelers can distinguish between a natural Ruby and a synthetic one, since they apparently have the same physical characteristics. However, a natural ruby can be distinguished from a synthetic one by the inclusions. Well, natural rubies generally exhibit inclusions, while their naked-eye synthetic counterparts tend to be clear.
Main ruby deposits
The most important ruby deposits are found in: Afghanistan, Burma, Cambodia, China, India, Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand and Vietnam. In addition to being found in smaller quantities in South Africa, Australia, Greenland and the USA.
Despite this, Burmese rubies are very famous for their exceptional color. this country being known for producing the best rubies in the world. Although, Burmese ruby generally does not exceed several carats. Therefore, a large specimen can be worth millions of dollars.
The ruby in the zodiac
According to the zodiac, there are precious stones that are associated with each sign. These give them energy, help attract good luck and enhance their qualities. And the ruby is one of them, since it is the zodiacal stone for the natives of the Capricorn sign. In addition to that it is the stone associated with the planets Mars and Pluto. Additionally, it is linked with the elements of fire and water, while in Vedic astrology it is associated with the Sun.
July Birthstone Meaning and Mystical Powers
If there are stones with meaning, the ruby is definitely one of them. Considered by ancient European and Hindu cultures as the «stone of the Sun». Representing for them the vital force, the inner fire, love and passion.
It also symbolizes long life, joy and passionate love. On the other hand, although there is no confirmed information about it yet, due to its unique characteristics, ruby has been believed to have mystical powers. So it has been used since ancient times as an amulet. To ward off evil from its bearers and protect them from any misfortune.
In the same way it is believed that it brings: courage, bravery and drives away nightmares. Also associating powers, such as harmony and wisdom. While in the Bible he is mentioned several times and is associated with wisdom and beauty. Even in ancient China they were placed under buildings in the belief that they brought good luck and fortune.
It is believed that this stone can make us rejuvenate and that it also gives us drive and passion in our lives. At the same time it makes us more active, productive, courageous, impulsive and spontaneous. Therefore, jewelry lovers could say that it is a perfect stone to always carry with us. Likewise, according to an ancient legend, it is believed that those who carry a ruby are guaranteed a peaceful and full life.