The ruby, a gemstone celebrated for its vibrant red hue, holds the distinguished position as the birthstone for July. Revered throughout history as a symbol of passion, protection, and prosperity, the ruby continues to captivate with its beauty and enduring appeal. This article will explore the ruby’s significance, its association with July birthdays, and practical guidance for its care, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
The ruby’s history is steeped in lore and symbolism. Sources indicate the ruby is known as the “Stone of Divine Creativity,” a testament to its perceived ability to increase energy, self-esteem, and spiritual wisdom. It is also recognized as a symbol of good fortune, loyalty, and love. While specific historical origins and ancient beliefs are not detailed within the provided materials, the ruby’s consistent association with positive attributes suggests a long-held cultural significance. The sources focus on its modern gifting relevance, noting its suitability for birthdays, anniversaries, and celebratory gifts like push presents.
Gemological Properties
The ruby is identified as a gemstone, specifically referenced in descriptions of necklaces and jewelry. The provided materials detail some physical characteristics. La Côte Club specifies a ruby gemstone pendant measuring .21" x .21" (5.3 mm x 5.3 mm). The materials do not provide information regarding the ruby’s chemical composition, hardness, or refractive index.
Jewelry crafted with rubies is available in various settings, including gold chains and sterling silver. La Côte Club details the composition of their sterling silver as .925 genuine sterling silver, consisting of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals for enhanced durability, stamped with “925” to signify authenticity. They also offer gold vermeil pieces, which are constructed with 18k solid gold layered to a thickness of at least 2.5 microns over .925 sterling silver, ensuring a luxurious and durable finish.
Sources and Craftsmanship
The ruby featured in one necklace is part of a collection handcrafted by at-risk and rescued women in the United States, highlighting a socially conscious aspect of its origin. Ben Garelick emphasizes quality craftsmanship in their ruby designs. La Côte Club also emphasizes their handcrafted designs, featuring a branded stamp and hypoallergenic properties. The sources do not specify ruby mining locations.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
As previously mentioned, the ruby is associated with several symbolic meanings. Ben Garelick describes it as the “Stone of Divine Creativity,” believed to enhance energy, self-esteem, and spiritual wisdom. More broadly, it is considered a symbol of good fortune, loyalty, and love. These associations make it a particularly meaningful gift for those born in July.
Jewelry Styles and Availability
The provided sources showcase a variety of ruby jewelry options. Ben Garelick offers a collection including rings, necklaces, and earrings. La Côte Club features a ruby birthstone necklace with a deep red hue, intended to ignite passion and vitality. Tiffany & Co. is also mentioned as a source for July birthstone jewelry, though no specific products are detailed. The materials suggest a readily available market for ruby jewelry, catering to diverse gifting occasions.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of ruby jewelry. La Côte Club provides specific guidance: jewelry should be removed before showering, swimming, or exercising. Contact with perfumes, lotions, hairspray, and cleaning products should be avoided, as these can damage the finish. Jewelry should be stored individually in the provided La Côte Club pouch. Regular cleaning with a soft, dry cloth is recommended, and the La Côte Club polishing cloth can be used to maintain shine, with a caution against over-polishing to preserve the gold vermeil plating. A full care guide is available on the La Côte Club website.
Purchasing Considerations
Ben Garelick offers assistance with gift selection, providing online chat, text messaging (716-574-0966), and phone support (716-631-1584) to help customers find the perfect keepsake. The sources emphasize the lasting value of a well-chosen piece of jewelry.
The Ruby Necklace: A Detailed Look
The ruby birthstone necklace from La Côte Club features a .21" x .21" (5.3 mm x 5.3 mm) ruby pendant suspended from a 16" chain that extends to 18". The necklace is handcrafted and features a branded stamp. The materials note that natural gemstones may vary slightly in color, adding to the uniqueness of each piece. The necklace is available with both sterling silver and gold vermeil settings.
Conclusion
The ruby, July’s birthstone, is a gemstone rich in symbolism and beauty. Representing passion, protection, and prosperity, it remains a popular choice for jewelry and a meaningful gift for those born in July. The available sources highlight the ruby’s enduring appeal, its association with positive attributes, and the importance of proper care to maintain its luster. The ruby’s vibrant color and rich history ensure its continued significance in the world of gemstones.