July is a month rich in symbolism, marked by celebrations such as Canada Day, Independence Day in the United States, and Bastille Day in France. It is also the birth month for notable figures like Tom Cruise, Margot Robbie, and Eva Green. In the world of gemology, July is equally distinguished, offering not one, but two prominent birthstones: Ruby and Onyx. These gemstones, with their distinct characteristics and rich histories, reflect the duality of July—passionate and fiery, yet grounded and enduring.
This article delves into the history, properties, cultural significance, and care of the July birthstones, focusing on the Ruby and Onyx. Through an exploration of both modern and traditional designations, we uncover the reasons behind the month’s dual birthstone tradition and the enduring allure of these gemstones.
History and Lore
The tradition of assigning gemstones to months of the year dates back to ancient times. While the exact origins of birthstone lore remain unclear, one of the earliest known references appears in the biblical Book of Exodus, which describes the High Priest’s breastplate adorned with twelve gemstones. These stones were believed to represent the twelve tribes of Israel and were used for spiritual protection and guidance. Over time, the practice evolved, and by the early 20th century, birthstones became associated with the months of the year rather than zodiac signs.
By the 1950s, the modern birthstone list was officially standardized by the Jewelers of America, incorporating both traditional and newly introduced gemstones. For July, the ruby was designated as the primary modern birthstone, while the onyx was also recognized as an alternative. This dual designation reflects the month’s connection to both passion and resilience.
The ruby, with its deep red hue, has long been associated with love, vitality, and courage. Ancient cultures, including those of India, China, and Egypt, revered the ruby as a sacred stone, often attributing it with mystical powers. In medieval Europe, the ruby was believed to promote health and strength, and it was commonly used in royal regalia. Onyx, on the other hand, has been cherished for its grounding energy and protective qualities. Ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans used onyx for amulets and talismans, believing it could ward off negative energies and provide emotional stability.
The July birthstone tradition is further enriched by zodiac associations. The month of July is divided between the zodiac signs Cancer and Leo. Rubies are the traditional birthstone for Cancer, symbolizing the nurturing and passionate nature of those born under this water sign. For Leo, the zodiac birthstone is peridot, a vibrant green gemstone that mirrors the bold and charismatic traits of Leos.
Geological Formation and Sources
The ruby and onyx, though both July birthstones, differ significantly in their geological origins and formation processes. Understanding these differences provides insight into their rarity, beauty, and value in the gemstone market.
Ruby: A Product of High-Pressure Metamorphism
The ruby is a corundum gemstone, a crystalline form of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). What distinguishes a ruby from other corundum varieties, such as sapphires, is the presence of trace amounts of chromium, which gives the ruby its characteristic red color. In some cases, rubies can also exhibit a pinkish or purplish hue due to the presence of other trace elements like iron or vanadium.
Rubies form under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions during metamorphism, typically in marble or basalt rock. The most famous source of rubies is Myanmar (formerly Burma), where the gemstone has been mined for centuries. The rubies from this region are renowned for their intense red color, often described as “pigeon’s blood” red. Other notable sources of rubies include Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, Afghanistan, and more recently, Mozambique.
The rarity of fine-quality rubies contributes to their high value in the gemstone market. Rubies with a deep, uniform red color and minimal inclusions are the most sought after. The hardness of the ruby, which is 9 on the Mohs scale, makes it durable and suitable for use in jewelry. However, due to its hardness, cutting and polishing rubies require specialized tools and expertise.
Onyx: A Variety of Chalcedony
Onyx is a type of chalcedony, a mineraloid composed of microcrystalline quartz and cryptocrystalline silica. Unlike the ruby, which forms under high-pressure conditions, onyx is typically formed through the slow deposition of silica-rich fluids in sedimentary rock. The result is a smooth, waxy surface with a uniform coloration, most commonly black or white, though it can also appear in shades of brown, gray, or even multicolored bands.
Black onyx, the most well-known variety, is often used in jewelry for its deep, lustrous appearance. The gemstone is believed to have originated in the ancient region of Nubia, in what is now Sudan and Egypt. However, onyx is also found in various parts of the world, including Brazil, India, Madagascar, and the United States.
Unlike rubies, onyx is relatively abundant and affordable, making it a popular choice for jewelry and decorative items. Its hardness is 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which means it is more susceptible to scratches than ruby. As a result, onyx requires careful handling and is best suited for use in jewelry that is not subject to frequent wear or impact.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of the July birthstones provides insight into their durability, appearance, and value. These properties include color, clarity, hardness, chemical composition, and refractive index.
Ruby: The King of Gems
Ruby is the most valuable and highly prized of the corundum family. Its color, which ranges from deep red to pinkish-red, is primarily due to the presence of chromium. In some cases, rubies may contain other trace elements, which can affect their hue. The most desirable rubies exhibit a vibrant red with a slight blue secondary hue, often described as “pigeon’s blood” red.
Clarity in rubies varies, with most stones containing visible inclusions. These inclusions can be natural features of the gemstone and are often used to determine its origin. Rubies with high clarity and minimal inclusions are rare and highly valuable. The clarity of a ruby is assessed using a 10x loupe or microscope, and the presence of certain inclusions can indicate whether the ruby is natural or synthetic.
Ruby has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones after diamond. This hardness allows it to be used in a variety of jewelry settings, including rings, pendants, and earrings. The gemstone has a refractive index of 1.76–1.78, and it is doubly refractive, meaning that light passing through the stone splits into two rays. This property can affect the appearance of inclusions and the overall brilliance of the ruby.
Chemically, ruby is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃), with trace amounts of chromium responsible for its red color. The gemstone is also known for its pleochroism, a property that causes the stone to exhibit different colors when viewed from different angles. This effect is most noticeable in rubies with a strong red hue.
Onyx: A Grounding Stone
Onyx is a member of the chalcedony family, and it is known for its uniform coloration and smooth, waxy luster. The most common varieties of onyx are black and white, though other colors and banded patterns can also occur. Black onyx, in particular, is highly valued for its deep, velvety appearance and is often used in both traditional and modern jewelry designs.
The clarity of onyx is typically excellent, with few inclusions due to its microcrystalline structure. The gemstone is often cut en cabochon, meaning it is shaped into a smooth, rounded surface without facets. This cutting style enhances the stone’s luster and allows it to be used in a variety of jewelry styles, including rings, pendants, and bracelets.
Onyx has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which is lower than ruby but still suitable for use in jewelry. However, it is more prone to scratches and abrasions, so it is best suited for use in pieces that are not subject to daily wear. The gemstone has a refractive index of 1.48–1.53 and is singly refractive, meaning that light passes through the stone without splitting into two rays.
Chemically, onyx is composed of silicon dioxide (SiO₂), the same compound that makes up quartz. Its smooth surface and uniform coloration make it ideal for carving and engraving, and it has been used in various cultures for decorative and symbolic purposes.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, both ruby and onyx have been associated with a wide range of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. These beliefs vary across cultures, but they often reflect the gemstones’ physical characteristics and the emotions they evoke.
Ruby: A Symbol of Love and Power
The ruby has long been regarded as a symbol of love, passion, and vitality. In ancient times, it was believed to promote health and strength, and it was often worn as a protective talisman. The deep red color of the ruby has been associated with life, energy, and courage, making it a powerful symbol of vitality and resilience.
In medieval Europe, the ruby was considered the “king of gems” and was often used in royal regalia and religious artifacts. It was believed to bring good fortune, wisdom, and protection to its wearer. The ruby was also associated with the heart, and it was thought to enhance love and emotional connection between individuals.
Modern metaphysical beliefs continue to attribute powerful properties to the ruby. It is often used in crystal healing to stimulate the heart chakra and promote emotional healing. The ruby is also believed to enhance confidence, courage, and motivation, making it a popular choice for those seeking to overcome challenges and pursue their goals.
Onyx: A Stone of Grounding and Protection
Onyx is often associated with grounding, protection, and emotional stability. In ancient cultures, it was believed to ward off negative energies and provide a sense of calm and balance. The Greeks and Romans used onyx as a protective amulet, particularly during times of stress or uncertainty.
The stone is also believed to promote emotional strength and resilience, helping individuals to remain composed and focused in difficult situations. Onyx is often used in crystal healing to support emotional stability and to help individuals process and release negative emotions.
Modern metaphysical beliefs suggest that onyx is particularly beneficial for those who are prone to anxiety, stress, or emotional instability. It is believed to absorb and neutralize negative energies, making it a valuable tool for spiritual protection. The stone is also associated with discipline and willpower, making it a popular choice for those seeking to improve their focus and determination.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of ruby and onyx jewelry. While both gemstones are durable, they require different levels of care due to their varying hardness and susceptibility to damage.
Ruby: Durable and Resilient
Ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, with a rating of 9 on the Mohs scale. This high hardness makes it resistant to scratches and abrasions, making it suitable for use in everyday jewelry such as rings, pendants, and bracelets.
Despite its hardness, ruby can be damaged by exposure to high heat and sudden temperature changes. To clean ruby jewelry, use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can potentially damage the gemstone or its setting.
When storing ruby jewelry, keep it in a separate compartment or pouch to prevent it from coming into contact with other gemstones that may scratch its surface. Avoid exposing ruby jewelry to direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can cause fading or discoloration in some cases.
Onyx: Delicate and Sensitive
Onyx, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, is more delicate than ruby and requires more careful handling. It is susceptible to scratches, abrasions, and damage from harsh chemicals.
To clean onyx jewelry, use a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone’s surface. It is also important to avoid exposing onyx to prolonged exposure to heat or sunlight, as this can cause it to lose its luster or become discolored.
When storing onyx jewelry, keep it in a cool, dry place away from other gemstones to prevent scratches. Avoid wearing onyx jewelry during activities that may expose it to impact or abrasion, such as sports or manual labor.
Conclusion
The July birthstones, ruby and onyx, offer a fascinating duality that reflects the month’s rich history and symbolism. Ruby, with its deep red hue and association with love and vitality, represents the passionate and fiery nature of July. Onyx, with its grounding energy and protective qualities, provides a sense of balance and resilience. Together, these gemstones capture the essence of July, making them cherished choices for those born during this month.
Whether you are drawn to the vibrant beauty of ruby or the timeless elegance of onyx, these gemstones hold a special place in the world of birthstones. Their unique properties, rich histories, and symbolic meanings make them not only beautiful adornments but also meaningful gifts and heirlooms.
For those considering ruby or onyx jewelry, understanding their gemological properties and care requirements is essential for preserving their beauty and value. With proper care, these gemstones can be enjoyed for generations, serving as enduring symbols of July’s dual nature—passionate and powerful, yet grounded and enduring.