July, the month of summer’s peak, is symbolically graced by two of the most captivating gemstones in the world of jewelry and gemology: ruby and onyx. While ruby holds the spotlight as the modern birthstone for July, onyx carries a traditional legacy that dates back centuries. Both stones have rich histories, unique gemological properties, and symbolic meanings that have resonated across cultures and time. For someone born on July 15th, the ruby is particularly significant, as it not only marks the month but also commemorates the 15th wedding anniversary in many traditions. This article explores the ruby and onyx in depth, drawing on historical accounts, scientific data, and cultural lore to present a comprehensive understanding of these July birthstones.
Introduction
July is one of the few months in the modern birthstone calendar that officially recognizes two gemstones: ruby and onyx. While ruby is the dominant and more widely celebrated birthstone for July, onyx holds an equally rich and storied history in some traditional systems. The ruby, with its deep red hue and fiery brilliance, symbolizes passion, vitality, and protection, while onyx—especially in its black or banded form—has long been associated with strength, grounding, and resilience.
This dual legacy reflects the complexity of birthstone traditions, which have evolved over centuries and differ between modern (as defined by the Jewelers of America in the 1950s) and traditional (as recognized in earlier centuries and in various cultural systems like astrology). For those born on July 15th, the ruby is the central birthstone, and its symbolic and practical significance is especially relevant.
This article will explore the history and lore of both ruby and onyx as July birthstones, their geological origins and properties, their cultural and metaphysical significance, and how to care for and appreciate these gems in jewelry. We will also examine the modern and traditional distinctions that explain why July has two birthstones.
History and Lore
The Ruby: A Stone of Kings and Warriors
The ruby has long been revered as one of the most precious gemstones in the world. Known as the “king of precious stones” in ancient India, it was associated with power, vitality, and divine energy. In many cultures, ruby was believed to possess life-giving properties and was often worn by royalty and warriors for protection and strength.
The name “ruby” comes from the Latin word rubeus, meaning “red”, a color that has historically symbolized love, courage, and passion. Ancient texts from India, Egypt, and Rome all mention rubies as valuable and mystical stones. In medieval Europe, ruby was believed to promote health, wisdom, and success in love, and it was often used in ceremonial jewelry and talismans.
One of the most famous historical accounts is of Burmese warriors who believed that wearing a ruby made them invincible in battle. The Mogok region in Myanmar, one of the oldest and most famous ruby sources, has produced some of the world’s most valuable and sought-after gems for over five centuries.
In the context of birthstone traditions, ruby has been associated with July for a long time. It is also the traditional gemstone for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, making it a symbol of enduring love and deep commitment. This connection is especially relevant for someone born on July 15th, as the ruby becomes a gemstone of both personal and relational significance.
The Onyx: A Stone of Strength and Protection
While ruby is the more commonly recognized July birthstone in modern times, onyx has a long and storied history as a traditional July gemstone, especially in European and Roman traditions. The name “onyx” is derived from the Greek word onux, meaning “claw” or “fingernail”, likely due to its smooth, banded appearance that resembles the natural patterns of a fingernail.
Onyx is a type of chalcedony, a form of quartz, and is often found in banded varieties. The most common and commercially available onyx is black onyx, which is typically heat-treated or dyed to enhance its deep, rich color. Banded onyx, with its alternating layers of white and black, is also popular and is sometimes used as a decorative stone in jewelry and art.
Historically, onyx was believed to have protective and grounding properties. In ancient Rome and Greece, it was used in signet rings and seals, and it was thought to bring calmness and clarity to the wearer. In some cultures, onyx was associated with strength and resilience, making it a fitting symbol for July, the month of summer and vitality.
The tradition of onyx as a July birthstone dates back to the 15th century, and it remained an accepted July gemstone in various European and Jewish traditions until the 20th century. Today, onyx is still appreciated as an alternative July birthstone and is often worn by those born in the month for its unique beauty and symbolic meaning.
Geological Formation and Sources
Ruby: A Corundum Marvel
Ruby is a corundum gemstone, which is the same mineral species as sapphire. Corundum is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) and gets its red color from chromium impurities. The more chromium present, the deeper and richer the red color of the ruby. The finest rubies are described as having a “pigeon’s blood” color, a deep red with a slight purple undertone.
Rubies form in metamorphic rocks, particularly in marble deposits that are rich in aluminum. The process involves high temperatures and pressures over long geological timescales. The most famous ruby deposits are in Myanmar (Burma), where the Mogok region has been a major source for centuries. The rubies from Mogok are known for their rich color and inclusions, which give the stone a glowing, lively appearance.
Other significant ruby sources include:
- Vietnam, particularly in the Luc Yen and Quy Chau regions
- Mozambique, where the Montepuez mines have produced high-quality rubies
- Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Tanzania, and Madagascar
These regions have all contributed to the global ruby trade, and the stones from each location often have unique characteristics in terms of color, clarity, and inclusions.
Onyx: A Chalcedony Classic
Onyx is a banded form of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline variety of silicon dioxide (SiO₂). It forms in sedimentary and volcanic rocks, often in areas where silica-rich water has slowly deposited layers of quartz over time. The banding in onyx is what distinguishes it from other chalcedony varieties like agate or carnelian.
The most common and commercially available onyx is black onyx, which is usually treated to enhance its color. Natural black onyx is rare, so most black onyx on the market is either heat-treated or dyed. Banded onyx, with its alternating white and black layers, is also popular and is used in a variety of jewelry and decorative items.
Onyx is found in various parts of the world, including:
- India, known for its high-quality banded onyx
- Brazil, a major supplier of chalcedony and onyx
- Nepal, where onyx has been mined for centuries
- United States, where onyx is found in states like California and Texas
The versatility of onyx, along with its affordability and durability, has made it a popular gemstone in both traditional and modern jewelry designs.
Gemological Properties
Ruby: A Hard and Lustrous Gem
Ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, second only to diamond. This high hardness makes it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry, especially in rings and bracelets. The refractive index of ruby is approximately 1.76–1.78, and it exhibits strong pleochroism, meaning it can display different colors depending on the angle of view.
In terms of clarity, rubies are often included due to their formation process in metamorphic rocks. These inclusions, sometimes referred to as “silk,” can actually enhance the gem’s appearance by giving it a velvety or glowing look. The most valuable rubies are those with vibrant red color, good clarity, and natural inclusions that do not detract from the stone’s beauty.
Ruby’s fluorescence under ultraviolet light is another notable characteristic. Some rubies, particularly those from Myanmar, exhibit a bright red fluorescence, which enhances their color and makes them appear more vivid.
Onyx: A Durable and Smooth Stone
Onyx has a hardness of 6.5–7 on the Mohs scale, which makes it durable enough for most jewelry applications, although it is not as hard as ruby. It has a waxy to glassy luster and is usually opaque, though some varieties may have a slight transparency.
The density of onyx is around 2.58–2.64 g/cm³, and it has a conchoidal fracture, meaning it breaks with a smooth, curved surface. Because it is a microcrystalline quartz, onyx is relatively stable and not prone to cleavage or fractures, making it a good choice for jewelry.
One of the key characteristics of onyx is its banding, which is caused by alternating layers of white and black chalcedony. This banding gives the stone a unique and distinctive appearance and is often used in signet rings, cabochons, and decorative items.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Ruby: A Stone of Passion and Power
Ruby has long been associated with passion, vitality, and protection. In many cultures, it is believed to represent the life force, and it has been used as a talisman to promote courage, strength, and success. Ancient Indian and Chinese traditions held that ruby could increase vitality and ward off illness, and it was often worn by warriors and leaders for protection in battle.
In medieval Europe, ruby was believed to promote health, wisdom, and success in love, and it was often used in ceremonial jewelry and amulets. Some sources suggest that ruby could predict danger or misfortune, making it a valuable protective stone.
Modern metaphysical beliefs also ascribe positive properties to ruby, including increased energy, motivation, and emotional stability. It is often used in crystal healing to stimulate the heart chakra and promote love, passion, and emotional healing.
Onyx: A Stone of Strength and Grounding
Onyx, particularly black onyx, is often associated with strength, grounding, and protection. In ancient times, it was believed to help calm the mind and provide emotional stability, and it was often used in signet rings and seals to promote clarity and confidence.
In modern metaphysical practices, onyx is considered a grounding stone that helps to balance emotions and increase self-control. It is often used to protect against negative influences and to promote mental and emotional resilience.
Banded onyx is also believed to have unique properties depending on the colors and patterns of the bands. For example, white and black banded onyx is thought to promote clarity and focus, while red onyx (also known as sardonyx) is believed to enhance passion and vitality.
Care and Cleaning
Ruby: A Durable and Low-Maintenance Gem
Due to its high hardness and durability, ruby is relatively easy to care for and can be worn regularly in most jewelry. However, it is important to be cautious with heat, chemicals, and abrasive materials, as these can damage the stone.
To clean ruby jewelry, use a soft brush and warm soapy water. Avoid using steam cleaners or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone or its setting. If the ruby has inclusions or is treated, it is best to avoid harsh cleaning methods.
When storing ruby jewelry, keep it in a soft pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or sudden temperature changes, as these can cause the stone to crack or lose its color.
Onyx: A Stone That Benefits from Gentle Care
Onyx is less hard than ruby, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5–7, so it requires a bit more care when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. It is also more porous than ruby, so it can be easily stained or damaged by harsh chemicals.
To clean onyx jewelry, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause the stone to crack or lose its polish. If the onyx has been dyed or treated, it is especially important to avoid exposure to strong chemicals or heat.
When storing onyx jewelry, keep it in a dry, cool place to prevent fading or discoloration. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or artificial light for long periods, as this can cause the color to fade, especially in dyed onyx.
Conclusion
The July 15th birthstone, ruby, is a gemstone of profound significance, symbolizing passion, vitality, and protection. Its deep red color and high hardness make it a durable and valuable gemstone that has been cherished for centuries in both traditional and modern jewelry. The ruby’s connection to the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries further cements its role as a symbol of enduring love and commitment.
While ruby is the modern birthstone for July, onyx also holds a traditional place in the July birthstone tradition. With its grounding and protective properties, onyx complements the fiery energy of ruby and offers a unique and meaningful alternative for those born in July.
Together, ruby and onyx represent the duality of strength and passion, making them perfect symbols for the month of July. Whether you choose to wear ruby or onyx, these gemstones offer a rich history, deep symbolism, and lasting beauty that can be appreciated for generations.