The ruby, a gemstone steeped in history and revered for its vibrant color, holds a prominent position as the primary birthstone for July. Often called the “king of gems,” the ruby has long been associated with love, health, and wisdom. This article will delve into the history, lore, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism surrounding this captivating gemstone, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
Throughout history, the ruby has been highly prized by various cultures. Ancient Persians believed the ruby symbolized dignity, charity, and divine power. In Burma, the ruby was considered the final stage before achieving divinity, representing life and happiness. The Hindu culture further elevated the ruby’s status, incorporating it into the magical necklace of Vishnu, a central deity within the Hindu trinity. These early civilizations recognized the ruby not merely as a beautiful adornment, but as a stone imbued with spiritual and protective qualities.
The ruby’s association with passion and devotion extends into more recent history. Celebrities like Emily Blunt, Penelope Cruz, Naomi Watts, Jessica Simpson, and Scarlett Johansson have been noted for wearing ruby jewelry, further cementing its appeal and desirability. The stone’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless beauty and the powerful symbolism it carries.
Beyond its association with love and power, the ruby was also believed to offer protection. Sapphire, also listed as a July birthstone, was regarded as a safeguard against evil forces, black magic, and witchcraft. While the ruby’s protective qualities aren’t explicitly detailed in the same manner, its overall association with divine power suggests a similar belief in its ability to ward off negativity.
Geological Formation and Sources
The sources detail that 90% of all amber deposits are located in the former Prussia, now known as the Kaliningrad region of Russia. However, the provided materials do not contain information regarding the geological formation or primary mining locations of rubies.
Gemological Properties
The provided sources primarily focus on the ruby’s symbolic and historical significance rather than detailed gemological properties. However, it is established that the ruby is considered the most valuable gemstone, with its value increasing based on color and quality. The sources do not provide information on the ruby’s chemical composition, hardness, refractive index, or other specific gemological characteristics.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The ruby is deeply embedded in symbolism. It represents love, health, and wisdom, and was historically believed to bestow good fortune upon its owner. The stone’s vibrant red color is often associated with passion, energy, and vitality. In some cultures, the ruby was thought to attract wealth and favor from those in positions of authority.
The symbolism extends to specific beliefs. For example, cloudy blue or greyish sapphires revealing six beams of light were known as ‘star sapphires’ and considered love charms, as six was a number sacred to Venus. While this refers to sapphires, it illustrates the broader practice of attributing specific meanings and powers to gemstones based on their appearance and perceived connection to celestial bodies.
Alternative July Birthstones
While the ruby is the primary birthstone for July, the sources indicate a variety of alternative gemstones associated with the month. These include sapphire, topaz, agate, and beryl. Amber is also listed as a high priest birthstone for July, originating from the breastplate gems of Aaron. Amber, a fossilized tree resin, is often yellow, but can range in color to reddish-brown or even blue (particularly amber from the Dominican Republic). It was used as currency in ancient times and prized by the Romans, who demanded tribute in this gemstone from the Britons.
Topaz is identified as a July special apostle birth rock and is associated with friendship, fidelity, loyalty, and integrity. It was believed to attract wealth and favor. Sapphire, designated as a guardian angel birth gem, was historically regarded as a gemstone of divine and beautiful thoughts, offering protection from negative forces.
Ruby in Jewelry
The ruby’s beauty and symbolism make it a popular choice for jewelry. The sources highlight a curated selection of ruby jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, often paired with diamonds and set in various precious metals like yellow gold, white gold, vermeil, and sterling silver. Ruby earrings are available in styles ranging from studs to hoops to drops, while ruby bracelets feature intricate gemstone designs set against delicate chains.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources do not offer specific guidance on the care and cleaning of rubies. However, given that amber is a relatively soft gemstone, it is reasonable to infer that rubies, while durable, should be handled with care to avoid scratches or damage.
Conclusion
The ruby remains a captivating and highly valued gemstone, deeply rooted in history, lore, and symbolism. As the primary birthstone for July, it represents love, health, wisdom, and good fortune. While alternative birthstones like sapphire, topaz, agate, beryl, and amber offer additional choices for those born in July, the ruby’s enduring appeal and rich cultural significance solidify its position as the “king of gems.” The sources, while limited in detailed gemological information, provide a compelling overview of the ruby’s historical importance and the beliefs surrounding its power and beauty.