The month of July is graced by two captivating birthstones: the ruby and the onyx. While ruby reigns as the primary gem, representing passion and vitality, onyx offers a striking alternative with a rich history of its own. Both stones have been intertwined with human culture for millennia, symbolizing power, protection, and prosperity. This article delves into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of these remarkable gemstones, offering a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and those seeking to understand the significance of July’s birthstones.
History and Lore
The ruby’s history is deeply rooted in ancient civilizations. Referred to as the “king of precious stones” in ancient India, the ruby was prized for its rarity, beauty, and perceived mystical powers. Ancient Hindus offered rubies to the god Krishna, hoping for reincarnation as an emperor, and believed the gem held the power of life itself. Burmese warriors historically believed rubies rendered them invincible in battle. In medieval Europe, rubies were thought to bestow health, wisdom, wealth, and success in love. The association with royalty and power continued throughout history, cementing the ruby’s status as a symbol of nobility and courage.
Onyx also boasts a long and storied past. For centuries, it was widely recognized as the traditional birthstone for July, particularly in Jewish, Roman, and European traditions. Its connection to the zodiac sign Leo, which spans part of July, further solidified its symbolic link to the month.
A shift occurred in 1912 when the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) standardized a list of birthstones, officially designating ruby as the primary July birthstone in the United States. Despite this change, onyx has remained a recognized alternative, favored for its bold aesthetic and perceived metaphysical properties.
Geological Formation and Sources
Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, and their vibrant red color originates from trace amounts of chromium. The more chromium present, the more intense the red hue. The finest ruby color is often described as “pigeon’s blood,” a deep red with a hint of purple.
The sources for rubies are varied, with significant deposits found in several regions. The provided sources specifically mention Burma (Myanmar) as a historically important source, where rubies were believed to imbue warriors with invincibility. Other locations are not detailed within the provided materials.
Onyx formation and sources are not detailed in the provided materials.
Gemological Properties
The ruby’s exceptional hardness, second only to diamond, contributes to its durability and desirability. This hardness makes it suitable for everyday wear. The name “ruby” itself derives from the Latin word ruber, meaning “red.”
The provided sources do not offer specific details regarding ruby’s refractive index, specific gravity, or clarity characteristics. However, they emphasize the importance of color in determining a ruby’s value, with the “pigeon’s blood” hue being the most prized.
Similarly, the gemological properties of onyx are not detailed in the provided sources.
The following table summarizes the limited gemological data available from the sources:
| Property | Ruby | Onyx |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral | Corundum | Not specified |
| Color | Red (varying shades) | Not specified |
| Hardness | Second only to diamond | Not specified |
| Chemical Formula | Not specified | Not specified |
| Origin of Color | Trace amounts of chromium | Not specified |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, both ruby and onyx have been imbued with symbolic meaning. Rubies are universally associated with passion, love, vitality, and courage. They were believed to predict misfortune, cure inflammatory diseases, and soothe anger in ancient times. The ruby’s connection to royalty and the sun further reinforces its symbolism of power and energy.
Onyx is recognized as a grounding stone, believed to absorb negative energy. Its sleek, sophisticated appearance contributes to its modern appeal, while its historical significance links it to strength and protection.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources offer limited guidance on the care and cleaning of July birthstones. However, they mention that basic cleaning and polishing are part of routine jewelry maintenance. Inspection for loose stones and damaged prongs is also recommended. Stone setting repairs, including re-tipping worn prongs or rebuilding damaged settings, may be necessary to maintain the integrity of the jewelry.
Given ruby’s hardness, it is relatively durable and can withstand regular wear. However, like all gemstones, it should be protected from harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures. The care instructions for onyx are not provided in the sources.
Modern and Traditional Birthstones
The concept of birthstones has evolved over time. Traditional birthstones were those historically associated with each month, while modern birthstones were standardized by the Jewelers of America in the 1950s. While ruby remains the consistent birthstone for July across both traditional and modern lists, other gems like spinel, citrine, and tanzanite have been added as more recent modern options. Some individuals prefer to choose from both lists, selecting the stone that resonates most with them.
Alternative July Birthstones
The sources mention several alternative birthstones for July, including carnelian, citrine, garnet, and onyx. These alternatives offer a wider range of colors and price points, allowing individuals to find a gemstone that suits their preferences and budget. The choice ultimately depends on personal meaning and aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion
The ruby and onyx, the birthstones of July, represent a captivating blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. The ruby, with its fiery red hue and association with passion and power, has been revered for centuries as a king among gemstones. Onyx, with its sleek appearance and grounding properties, offers a striking alternative with a rich cultural heritage. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, historical significance, or perceived metaphysical benefits, these gems continue to captivate and inspire. The enduring allure of ruby and onyx ensures their place as treasured symbols of July’s vibrant energy and warmth.