The July 15th birthstone, ruby, is a gemstone of profound historical and cultural significance. Revered across civilizations for its vibrant red color and symbolic power, the ruby has long been associated with vitality, courage, and the life force. This article explores the ruby in depth, covering its historical uses, gemological properties, sources, symbolism, and care. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, this guide offers a comprehensive look at one of the most cherished gems of all time.
The Significance of the July 15th Birthstone
The July 15th birthstone is the ruby, a gemstone celebrated for its intense red hue and enduring appeal. Rubies are not only prized for their beauty but also for the deep symbolism they carry. Historically, the ruby has been linked to power, passion, and protection. In many ancient cultures, rubies were believed to contain the essence of life, a belief reflected in their blood-red color.
Rubies have been worn by royalty and revered by ancient civilizations for their rarity and brilliance. They are also associated with love and vitality, making them a fitting birthstone for those born on July 15th. In addition to their cultural significance, rubies are valued in the gemological world for their hardness and unique chemical composition.
This article will explore the ruby’s rich history, geological properties, cultural symbolism, and practical care tips. Whether you are considering a ruby for yourself or a loved one, this guide will provide the knowledge needed to appreciate and care for this extraordinary gem.
History and Lore of the Ruby
The ruby’s history is as rich and vibrant as its color. Known as the “king of precious stones,” the ruby has been cherished for thousands of years across multiple cultures. Ancient Indian texts describe the ruby as a symbol of life and vitality, while medieval Europeans believed it could bestow health, wisdom, and success in love.
Ancient Beliefs and Uses
In ancient India, the ruby was revered as a sacred gemstone, often associated with the sun and used in royal regalia. Indian rulers believed that wearing a ruby could protect them from harm and grant them power. The gemstone was also believed to have healing properties, with some texts claiming that rubies could cure inflammatory diseases and soothe anger.
Burmese warriors, too, believed in the ruby’s protective powers. They wore rubies during battle, believing the stones made them invincible. In medieval Europe, the ruby was associated with the heart and was thought to enhance courage and vitality. It was also believed that rubies could predict misfortune or danger, a belief that contributed to their use in protective amulets and talismans.
Modern Recognition and Popularity
The ruby’s historical significance has carried over into the modern era, where it remains one of the most coveted gemstones. As the official birthstone for July, the ruby is a popular choice for jewelry, especially for those born on July 15th. In addition to being the July birthstone, rubies are traditionally given for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, symbolizing enduring love and commitment.
While the ruby is the most well-known July birthstone, alternative options such as onyx and carnelian have also been associated with the month. These alternatives reflect the diverse cultural and historical influences that shape the concept of birthstones.
Geological Formation and Sources of Ruby
Rubies are formed under specific geological conditions, which contribute to their rarity and value. As a variety of the mineral corundum, rubies derive their color from trace amounts of the element chromium. The more chromium present, the stronger the red color of the gemstone.
Formation Process
Corundum, the mineral family to which rubies belong, forms in metamorphic and igneous rock environments. The presence of chromium in the crystal lattice of corundum gives it a red color, transforming it into a ruby. The formation process requires high pressure and temperature, conditions that are typically found in the Earth’s crust.
The most prized rubies have a deep red color with a slight hint of purple, known as “pigeon’s blood” in the gem trade. This coloration is considered the most desirable and is often associated with the finest Burmese rubies.
Major Sources of Rubies
Rubies are found in several parts of the world, with some of the most famous sources including:
- Burma (Myanmar): Known for producing some of the finest rubies with the “pigeon’s blood” color, Burmese rubies are highly sought after in the gem trade.
- Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka is another major source of rubies, producing a range of colors from deep red to pinkish-red.
- Madagascar: In recent decades, Madagascar has become a significant source of high-quality rubies, with deposits yielding gems of excellent color and clarity.
- Thailand, Vietnam, and Tanzania: These countries also produce rubies, though the quality and coloration may vary.
The availability and quality of rubies from these sources influence their market value and desirability. Due to their rarity and the specific conditions required for their formation, rubies remain one of the most valuable and admired gemstones in the world.
Gemological Properties of the Ruby
The ruby’s physical and chemical properties make it one of the most durable and beautiful gemstones. As a variety of corundum, the ruby ranks 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, second only to diamond. This high hardness makes it suitable for use in a wide range of jewelry, including rings, earrings, and pendants.
Color and Clarity
The ruby’s defining characteristic is its vibrant red color, which ranges from deep red to pinkish-red and even orangish-red. The most valuable rubies have a pure red color with a slight purplish hue, often referred to as “pigeon’s blood.” This term is used to describe the finest quality rubies, particularly those from Burma.
Clarity is another important factor in ruby evaluation. High-quality rubies are typically free of visible inclusions, though some natural inclusions are expected in gemstones. These inclusions, known as “silk,” can enhance the ruby’s appearance by giving it a velvety or hazy look.
Chemical Composition and Hardness
Rubies are composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) with trace amounts of chromium, which gives them their red color. The high hardness of rubies, combined with their durability, makes them ideal for everyday wear. However, rubies can still be susceptible to damage if exposed to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures.
Cut and Carat
Rubies are commonly cut into brilliant or step cuts to maximize their brilliance and color. The most popular cuts include the round, oval, and cushion cuts. The weight of a ruby is measured in carats, with larger stones generally being more valuable. However, color and clarity are often more important than carat weight in determining a ruby’s value.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The ruby has long been associated with powerful and positive symbolism. Across cultures, it has been seen as a symbol of life, passion, and protection. In many ancient societies, rubies were believed to possess healing properties and were used in protective amulets and talismans.
Cultural Symbolism
In ancient India, rubies were considered sacred and were often worn by royalty. They were believed to bring prosperity, power, and protection to the wearer. The ruby was also associated with the sun and was thought to enhance vitality and courage.
In medieval Europe, rubies were believed to have the power to promote love and success in relationships. They were also thought to bestow health, wisdom, and strength. Some cultures believed that rubies could predict danger or misfortune, making them valuable for protective purposes.
Modern Metaphysical Beliefs
In modern times, rubies continue to be associated with passion, energy, and vitality. They are often used in crystal healing practices to stimulate the heart chakra and promote emotional strength. Some believe that rubies can enhance confidence and courage, making them a popular choice for those seeking motivation or empowerment.
While these metaphysical beliefs are not scientifically proven, they reflect the deep cultural and historical significance of the ruby. Whether worn for their beauty, symbolism, or supposed healing properties, rubies remain a powerful and enduring gemstone.
Care and Cleaning of Ruby Jewelry
Due to its high hardness and durability, the ruby is a relatively easy gemstone to care for. However, proper maintenance is essential to preserve its beauty and longevity.
Cleaning
Rubies can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone or the metal setting. Ultrasonic cleaners can also be used, but it is important to ensure that the ruby is free of inclusions that could be damaged by the vibrations.
Storage and Handling
When not in use, ruby jewelry should be stored in a soft, padded container to prevent scratches. Avoid storing rubies with other gemstones, as even hard gemstones can cause scratches if they come into contact.
Professional Maintenance
Periodic professional inspections are recommended to ensure that the ruby remains secure in its setting. A jeweler can check for loose stones, damaged prongs, and other potential issues. If necessary, a stone setting repair can be performed to restore the gemstone’s appearance and security.
Conclusion
The ruby, the birthstone for July 15th, is a gemstone of remarkable beauty, history, and symbolism. Its vibrant red color and association with power, passion, and protection have made it a treasured gemstone across cultures and centuries. Formed under intense geological conditions, rubies are among the hardest and most durable gemstones, making them ideal for use in jewelry.
Throughout history, rubies have been worn by royalty, believed to possess healing properties, and used in protective amulets. In the modern era, they remain a popular choice for birthstone jewelry and are associated with love, vitality, and courage. With proper care and maintenance, a ruby can last for generations, serving as a lasting symbol of its wearer’s strength and resilience.
Whether you are drawn to the ruby for its beauty, its historical significance, or its symbolic meaning, this gemstone offers a timeless connection to the past and a enduring presence in the present.