Ruby is July’s birthstone. A beautiful gemstone whose name derives from the Latin “ruber” which means red. And what the ancient Hindus called “King of Gems”. For being one of the five cardinal gems along with amethyst, diamond, sapphire and 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 prized gem in the world of jewellery. Where it is considered as one of the most expensive and beautiful. Especially for its representative fire red colour, its hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale and its glassy shine.
However, if we also consider the cut and the carat weight, the July birthstone can reach a higher value than a diamond of the same size.
Other gemological data of the ruby
Gemologically, ruby is a crystalline variation of aluminium oxide that belongs to the corundum family. Of which there are two main varieties: the ruby that identifies the variety of red colour. While corundums of any colour other than red are classified as sapphires.
Ruby owes its beautiful red colour to the presence of chromium in its composition. Although most rubies are dark red, some specimens may vary in colour. So they may range from pinkish to orange, purple, and brownish red.
But in the world of jewellery, its most desirable colour is known as “pigeon blood”. Which is a pure red with a hint of blue, found mainly only 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 colour depending on the angle at which it is viewed.
Likewise, within the classification we also have the “Star Rubies”, which are rubies that have asterism. Which is due to small rutile inclusions that make a polished gem exhibit this particular feature. Something that becomes doubly appreciated if it is a transparent ruby.
Star ruby generally exists in six-ray stars, although twelve-ray star rubies are also known. In general, transparent rubies are the most valued. While opaque or semi-opaque rubies are relatively small in value, even if they do show asterism.
July’s birthstone in jewellery
It is no secret to anyone that ruby is one of the most popular gemstones and highly valued among coloured stones. Since it has a crystalline, tabular and flat hexagonal shape that makes it ideal for various ornamental cuts. So it is not unusual to find rubies in rings, necklaces, earrings and other forms of jewellery.
Ruby especially is used as a central gemstone in pendants and rings. And also as a secondary stone to complement other precious stones such as diamond. Therefore, today many rubies are an essential part of royal insignia and other famous jewels around the world.
However, since ancient times they have also adorned crowns, armour and sword knobs. Thus seeking to harness their energy, foster courage, succeed, wealth and love.
On the other hand, although since 1912 the jewellers of America officially adopted ruby as the birthstone of July. Before date, both onyx and turquoise were considered the birthstones for this month. Similarly, in addition to being the birthstone of July. Ruby is ideal as a gift on the 15th and 40th wedding anniversary.
Fun facts about the ruby
Before precious stones could be gemologically identified, specifically until the early 19th century. Other stones that also have reddish tones such as spinel and rhodolite were confused and were believed to be rubies.
Thanks to advances in gemological instrumentation, some famous specimens such as the ‘Black Prince Ruby’ and the ‘Ruby Timur’ were present in British crown jewels, and were believed to be rubies. After being analysed it was discovered that they were actually spinels.
The first synthetic ruby was created in a laboratory in 1902. The creation process being known as the Verneuil process. It was thanks to this that in 1960 a “Verneuil ruby” was used. for the manufacture of the first “laser”.
It is worth mentioning that only expert jewellers can distinguish between a natural and a synthetic Ruby, since they apparently have the same physical characteristics. However, a natural Ruby can be distinguished from a synthetic one by inclusions. Well, natural rubies generally exhibit inclusions, while their synthetic counterparts at first glance tend to be clear.
Ruby main 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 less quantity in South Africa, Australia, Greenland and the USA.
Despite this, Burmese rubies are very famous for having an exceptional colour. This country is known for producing the best rubies in the world. Although, the Burmese ruby generally does not exceed several carats. So a large copy 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 ruby is one of them, as it is the zodiac 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 associated with the elements fire and water, while in Vedic astrology it is associated with the Sun.
Meaning and mystical powers of the July birthstone
If there are stones with meaning, ruby is definitely one of them. Considered by the ancient European and Hindu cultures as the “stone of the Sun”. Representing for them the life force, the inner fire, love and passion.
It also symbolizes long life, joy and passionate love. Furthermore, although there is still no confirmed information about it, due to its unique characteristics, the 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 contributes: courage, bravery and removes nightmares. Also associating powers, such as harmony and wisdom. While in the Bible it is mentioned several times and associated with wisdom and beauty. Even in ancient China they were placed under buildings for the belief that they conferred good luck and fortune.
It is believed that this stone can rejuvenate us and that it also gives us impulse and passion in our lives. At the same time, it makes us more active, productive, courageous, impulsive and spontaneous. Therefore, jewellery lovers could claim that it is a perfect stone to always carry with us. Also, according to an ancient legend it is believed that those who carry a ruby are guaranteed a quiet and full life.
ALFA