Ruby July BIrthstone Guide

Introduction : The Fiery Allure of Ruby:

For centuries, rubies have captivated hearts with their fiery brilliance and mesmerising red hues. But for those fortunate to celebrate a July birthday, these captivating gemstones hold a deeper significance – they are the designated birthstone for this vibrant month. Owning a ruby necklace, a stunning ring, or a pair of ruby earrings isn't just about adorning yourself with beauty; it's a connection to a cherished tradition and a symbol of the passionate fire that embodies July's essence.

A July Treasure: Gifting the Fire of Rubies

Birthstones hold a special place in our hearts, representing the month we enter the world. Rubies, with their fiery colours, have been associated with July for centuries. Their vibrant red embodies the passionate energy and vibrancy associated with the heart of summer. Gifting a piece of ruby jewellery to someone born in July is a thoughtful gesture that celebrates their birth month and reflects the fiery spirit they possess. From classic ruby pendants to modern ruby stud earrings, there's a ruby jewellery piece to suit every style and personality. For those seeking a more unique gift, consider ruby cufflinks, a ruby-encrusted pocket watch, or even a piece of art featuring this captivating gemstone.

A Journey Through Time: The Ruby's Rich History

The allure of rubies stretches back millennia. Ancient civilizations in India, Burma (now Myanmar), and Rome revered rubies for their captivating beauty and fiery symbolism. These stunning gems were believed to possess mystical powers, symbolising passion, protection, and good fortune. Throughout history, rubies have adorned the crowns of emperors, graced the jewellery boxes of royalty, and served as a symbol of power, status, and enduring love. Even today, rubies remain a coveted gemstone, cherished for their historical significance and captivating beauty.

Nature's Gemstone: Unveiling the Ruby's Essence:

Rubies are the red variety of the mineral corundum, known for their exceptional hardness (second only to diamonds). Their fiery red colour is caused by the presence of the element chromium within the corundum crystal structure. These remarkable gemstones are formed in a variety of ways, including through metamorphic processes where limestone reacts with aluminium-rich rocks deep within the earth. Another formation process involves the crystallisation of molten rock rich in aluminium and chromium. Major sources of rubies today include Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.

A Spectrum of Red: The Many Shades of Ruby:

While the classic image of a ruby conjures a deep, fiery red, these captivating gemstones come in a variety of hues. The most prized rubies are those with a pure, vibrant red known as "pigeon's blood." However, rubies can also range from a pinkish-red to a slightly brownish-red. The intensity and tone of the red significantly influence the value of a ruby.

Modern Marvels: The Many Uses of Rubies:

Rubies are not just stunning gemstones; they also possess remarkable industrial applications. Due to their exceptional hardness, rubies are used in various industrial applications, including grinding tools, bearings, and laser components. However, their primary use remains in the world of jewellery. Rubies can be cut and polished into a variety of shapes, with round and oval cuts being the most popular choices for maximising their brilliance. They are also set in various metals, including platinum, white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold, to create stunning jewellery pieces. In recent times, advancements in technology have allowed for the creation of synthetic rubies that share the same chemical and physical properties as natural rubies but at a more affordable price point.

Choosing a Quality Ruby: Selecting Your Perfect Gemstone:

Selecting a ruby is a deeply personal experience. Several factors influence the value and overall beauty of the gemstone:

• Colour: A pure, vibrant red with minimal secondary hues is the most prized.
• Clarity: Like most gemstones, rubies with minimal inclusions (flaws) are more valuable.
• Cut: The cut of the ruby significantly affects its brilliance and fire. Round and oval cuts are popular choices.
• Carat weight: Larger, high-quality rubies naturally command a higher price tag.

Ruby Birthstone Care: Keeping Your Gemstone Sparkling

Rubies are relatively durable gemstones, but proper care is essential to maintain their brilliance. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight.

FAQ’S

How much are rubies worth?

The value of a ruby can vary greatly depending on several factors:

• Colour: Deep, saturated reds with minimal secondary hues, often referred to as "pigeon's blood" rubies, are the most valuable. As the colour deviates from this ideal, the value can decrease.
• Clarity: Like most gemstones, rubies with minimal inclusions (flaws) are more valuable.
• Cut: A well-cut ruby maximises its brilliance and fire, enhancing its beauty and value.
• Carat weight: Larger, high-quality rubies naturally command a higher price tag.

Due to these variations, the price range for ruby jewellery can be quite broad. You can find ruby earrings for under $100 or a ruby necklace for several thousand dollars, depending on the quality and size of the gemstones.

What is the future of rubies?

The future of rubies appears bright for several reasons:

• Growing Demand: The increasing popularity of coloured gemstones and the enduring appeal of rubies suggest a continued strong demand.
• Sustainable Practices: Advancements in mining techniques and a growing focus on ethical sourcing can ensure a more sustainable supply of rubies.
• Investment Potential: As the availability of high-quality rubies, particularly those with exceptional colour and size, might become more limited, these gemstones have the potential to be good long-term investments. However, it is important to remember that gemstones are not guaranteed to appreciate in value, and market fluctuations can occur.

What colour is July's birthstone?

The traditional colour associated with July's birthstone is red. However, there can be some variation in the specific shade. The most prized rubies are those with a pure, vibrant red known as "pigeon's blood." However, rubies can also range from a pinkish-red to a slightly brownish-red. All these colours are considered acceptable for July birthstone jewellery.