July Birthstone: Ruby
Ruby is the birthstone for July and is often called the "king of gemstones." Its intense red colour, exceptional hardness, and rarity have made it one of the most valued coloured gemstones throughout human history, sometimes surpassing even diamond in price per carat.
Quick Facts
Colour
Red
Hardness
9 Mohs
Symbolism
Passion, protection, and prosperity
What is Ruby?
Ruby is the red variety of the mineral corundum, the same mineral that produces sapphire. The red colour is caused by trace amounts of chromium. Only red corundum is called ruby; all other colours are classified as sapphire. The finest rubies display a colour known as "pigeon blood," a vivid, slightly purplish red with strong fluorescence that makes the stone appear to glow. Lab-grown rubies are now available and are chemically identical to mined rubies.
Properties
Colour
Ranges from pinkish-red to deep, vivid red. The most prized colour is "pigeon blood red," a pure red with a hint of blue, found primarily in Burmese rubies.
Hardness
9 on the Mohs scale, second only to diamond. This extraordinary hardness makes ruby one of the most durable gemstones, ideal for daily-wear jewellery.
Origins
Myanmar (Burma) produces the finest rubies. Other significant sources include Mozambique, Madagascar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. Lab-grown rubies are produced globally.
Lustre
Vitreous to sub-adamantine lustre. Fine rubies display an intense, almost electric glow due to chromium fluorescence under UV light.
History
Rubies have been treasured for thousands of years, particularly in Asian cultures. Ancient Hindus called ruby "ratnaraj," meaning king of precious stones, and believed that offering a fine ruby to Krishna would guarantee rebirth as an emperor. Burmese warriors believed rubies made them invincible in battle and would insert them into their flesh. In medieval Europe, rubies were considered stones of prophecy, believed to darken as a warning of impending danger.
Meaning & Symbolism
Ruby symbolises passion, protection, and prosperity. It is associated with the heart and with life force energy. Throughout history, rubies have been believed to promote courage, vitality, and leadership. In romantic symbolism, ruby represents deep, passionate love, making it a powerful choice for engagement rings and anniversary gifts. It is also considered a stone of abundance and success.
How to Care for Ruby
Ruby's exceptional hardness makes it very easy to care for. Clean with warm soapy water, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners. The only caution is for rubies with significant fracture filling, which may be damaged by harsh cleaning methods. Store rubies carefully, as they can scratch softer gemstones. Ruby is an excellent choice for engagement rings and everyday jewellery due to its outstanding durability.
Ruby Jewellery Ideas
Ruby makes a striking engagement ring centre stone for those who want something bold and unique. A classic ruby and diamond combination in yellow gold is timelessly luxurious. Ruby stud earrings add a vibrant pop of colour to any outfit. For a more subtle approach, a delicate ruby pendant or a ruby eternity band offers everyday wearability. Lab-grown rubies provide the same vivid colour and hardness at a more accessible price point.
Shop Ruby Jewellery
Looking for jewellery featuring ruby or similar stones? Explore our handcrafted collections designed with ethically sourced stones.