July, a month brimming with summer's warmth and energy, is symbolically represented by a selection of gemstones that reflect its vibrant essence. While ruby stands as the primary birthstone for those born in July, the month also has secondary options such as onyx, turquoise, sardonyx, and even alexandrite. Each of these stones carries its own rich history, gemological properties, and symbolic meaning. This article explores these July birthstones in detail, drawing from historical traditions, gemological data, and their cultural significance.
Historical Context and Lore of July Birthstones
The tradition of assigning gemstones to each month of the year has roots in ancient beliefs, often linked to religious or astronomical symbolism. In the case of July, the selection of ruby as the primary birthstone reflects its long-standing status as one of the most revered gemstones in the world.
Ruby: The King of Gemstones
Ruby has been considered a gem of royal significance for centuries. In ancient India, it was known as the “king of precious stones” and was believed to possess mystical powers that could ward off danger and enhance vitality. The stone's deep red color, derived from the presence of chromium, was associated with the life force of blood and was thought to bring energy and courage to its wearer. Some historical accounts even suggest that ruby could predict misfortune or soothe anger, making it a gemstone of both protection and power.
Before the year 1912, when the Jewelers of America officially designated ruby as the primary July birthstone, other stones such as onyx and turquoise were also considered appropriate for the month. The inclusion of these secondary birthstones reflects the diverse and evolving nature of birthstone traditions across different cultures and time periods.
Other July Birthstones
While ruby is the most recognized July birthstone, the month is also associated with several other gems, including onyx, turquoise, sardonyx, and alexandrite. These stones, though less commonly known as birthstones for July, have their own unique histories and properties.
Onyx, for example, is often described as a stone of strength and emotional stability. In ancient times, sardonyx—a banded variety of onyx—was considered the zodiac stone for Leo and was worn by warriors for courage and protection in battle. Turquoise, another alternative July birthstone, is known for its striking blue-green hues and has been used for centuries as a symbol of spiritual clarity and protection.
Alexandrite, a rare and fascinating gemstone, is notable for its color-changing properties. It appears green in daylight and purplish-red in artificial light, making it a symbol of transformation and adaptability. Though less common than ruby, alexandrite is highly valued for its unique optical phenomenon and its metaphysical significance.
Geological Formation and Sources of July Birthstones
Understanding the geological origins and sources of July birthstones provides insight into their rarity, beauty, and value.
Ruby: A Corundum Gemstone
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The red color in ruby is caused by trace amounts of chromium. The finest rubies exhibit a deep red with a subtle purplish hue, often referred to in the trade as “pigeon’s blood.” This term describes the most desirable coloration and is associated with the highest value.
Rubies are formed under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions deep within the Earth's crust, often in metamorphic rocks. Some of the most famous ruby deposits are found in Myanmar (formerly Burma), which is known for producing some of the finest rubies in the world. Other notable sources include Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.
Ruby has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones after diamond. This durability allows ruby to be used in a variety of jewelry settings, though care must be taken to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures, as these can cause damage.
Onyx and Sardonyx: Banded Stones of Strength
Onyx is a form of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline variety of quartz. It is characterized by its distinct banding, often in alternating bands of white and black or brown and white. Sardonyx, a specific type of onyx, features layers of sard (a reddish-brown variety of chalcedony) and onyx, creating a striking contrast in color.
Historically, onyx and sardonyx have been mined in various parts of the world, including India, Brazil, and the United States. These stones are relatively hard, with a Mohs hardness of around 6.5 to 7, and are often used in carved cameos, beads, and cabochons.
Turquoise: A Unique Opaque Stone
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, with a chemical formula of Al₂(OH)₃PO₄. It is an opaque gemstone that ranges in color from blue to green, depending on the presence of copper or iron. Turquoise is often found in arid regions where it forms in the oxidation zones of copper deposits.
Notable sources of turquoise include Iran, the United States (particularly the Southwest), and Egypt. Turquoise has a relatively low hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it more susceptible to scratches and damage. As a result, it is often stabilized with resin to enhance its durability for jewelry use.
Alexandrite: A Color-Changing Phenomenon
Alexandrite is a rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl. Its color-changing property is due to the presence of trace amounts of chromium. In daylight, alexandrite appears green, while under artificial light, it takes on a purplish-red hue. This effect is known as the "alexandrite effect" and is one of the most unique optical phenomena in gemology.
Alexandrite was first discovered in 1830 in the Ural Mountains of Russia, and it is still one of the rarest gemstones in the world. The finest alexandrites are found in Brazil and Sri Lanka. Alexandrite has a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for use in jewelry.
Gemological Properties of July Birthstones
The gemological properties of July birthstones are essential for understanding their value, care, and use in jewelry. Below is a summary of the key properties of each gemstone.
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Hardness (Mohs) | Color | Origin | Rarity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ruby | Aluminum Oxide (Al₂O₃) | 9 | Red (with chromium) | Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka | Rare |
| Onyx | Silica (SiO₂) | 6.5–7 | Banded (black, white, brown) | India, Brazil, USA | Common |
| Sardonyx | Silica (SiO₂) | 6.5–7 | Banded (white and red) | India, Brazil | Common |
| Turquoise | Hydrated Phosphate of Aluminum and Copper | 5–6 | Blue to green | Iran, USA, Egypt | Moderate |
| Alexandrite | Beryllium Aluminum Oxide (BeAl₂O₄) | 8.5 | Green in daylight, purplish-red in artificial light | Brazil, Sri Lanka | Very rare |
Ruby
- Color: The most desirable ruby is a deep red with a slight purplish tint, known as "pigeon’s blood."
- Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale, making it highly durable.
- Clarity: Inclusions are common in natural rubies and are often considered part of the stone’s character.
- Cut: Rubies are often cut into oval, cushion, or emerald shapes to maximize brilliance and color.
Onyx and Sardonyx
- Color: Onyx is known for its distinct black and white banding, while sardonyx features bands of white and red.
- Hardness: 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale.
- Clarity: Onyx is typically opaque or semi-transparent.
- Cut: These stones are often cut into cabochons, beads, or carved designs.
Turquoise
- Color: Ranges from blue to green, depending on the presence of copper or iron.
- Hardness: 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale.
- Clarity: Turquoise is opaque and may contain matrix patterns (natural inclusions).
- Cut: Often cut into cabochons or beads.
Alexandrite
- Color: Changes from green in daylight to purplish-red in artificial light.
- Hardness: 8.5 on the Mohs scale.
- Clarity: Typically transparent to slightly included.
- Cut: Often cut into cushion or oval shapes to enhance the color change effect.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
July birthstones are not only prized for their beauty and rarity but also for the symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties attributed to them across different cultures and eras.
Ruby: Passion, Power, and Protection
Ruby is often associated with passion, love, and vitality. In many cultures, it is considered a stone of power and protection, believed to bring courage and energy to the wearer. In India, ruby was historically worn by royalty and warriors, as it was thought to enhance strength and invincibility in battle.
Ruby is also linked to the heart chakra and is believed to promote emotional strength, motivation, and life force energy. It is a stone of inspiration, helping individuals to overcome challenges and embrace their inner power.
Onyx: Grounding and Emotional Stability
Onyx is known as a stone of grounding and emotional stability. It is believed to absorb negative energy and promote resilience during times of change or emotional turmoil. In ancient times, onyx was worn to help with mental clarity and to provide a sense of calm and balance.
Sardonyx, with its banded patterns, is similarly associated with strength, discipline, and clarity. It was often worn by warriors for courage and protection in battle, and it is still considered a stone of strength and mental clarity today.
Turquoise: Clarity and Spiritual Connection
Turquoise is often regarded as a stone of clarity, protection, and spiritual connection. It is believed to enhance intuition, promote inner peace, and provide a sense of calm. In many indigenous cultures, turquoise is considered a sacred stone, used for healing and spiritual rituals.
Alexandrite: Transformation and Adaptability
Alexandrite is a symbol of transformation, adaptability, and inner balance. Its ability to change color is seen as a reflection of the duality of emotions and perspectives. It is believed to help individuals navigate change, enhance intuition, and bring harmony to opposing energies.
Care and Cleaning of July Birthstones
Proper care is essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of July birthstones. Each gemstone has specific requirements based on its hardness, durability, and sensitivity to chemicals and heat.
Ruby
- Cleaning: Ruby can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. A soft brush can be used to gently remove any buildup.
- Avoid: Steam and ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided for treated or included rubies, as they can cause damage.
- Storage: Store ruby separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
Onyx and Sardonyx
- Cleaning: These stones can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. A soft cloth or brush can be used to remove dirt.
- Avoid: Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can dull the surface.
- Storage: Store onyx and sardonyx in a soft pouch to prevent scratches.
Turquoise
- Cleaning: Turquoise should be cleaned gently with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid soaking it in water for extended periods.
- Avoid: Turquoise is sensitive to chemicals and heat, so avoid exposure to household cleaners or direct sunlight.
- Storage: Store turquoise in a cool, dry place, away from other gemstones.
Alexandrite
- Cleaning: Alexandrite can be cleaned with warm water and mild soap. A soft cloth can be used to wipe away dirt.
- Avoid: Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and high heat, as these can damage the stone.
- Storage: Store alexandrite separately in a soft pouch to avoid scratches.
July Birthstone Jewelry and Contemporary Use
July birthstones are not only valued for their symbolic and metaphysical properties but also for their use in jewelry. Brands such as Pandora and Kendra Scott offer a range of July birthstone pieces, including rings, necklaces, bracelets, and charms. These designs are created to reflect the beauty and meaning of ruby, onyx, and other July gemstones.
Ruby, as the primary July birthstone, is often featured in elegant and timeless designs that highlight its vibrant red color. Onyx and turquoise are used to create more contemporary and versatile pieces, while alexandrite, with its color-changing properties, offers a unique and eye-catching option for those seeking something different.
July birthstone jewelry is often chosen for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, and milestones, making it a meaningful and personal choice.
Conclusion
July birthstones, led by ruby, represent a rich tapestry of history, symbolism, and gemological excellence. From the passionate red of ruby to the grounding energy of onyx, the clarity of turquoise, and the transformative power of alexandrite, each gemstone offers its own unique qualities and significance. Whether chosen for its beauty, meaning, or rarity, a July birthstone is a meaningful and enduring symbol of the month’s energy and spirit.
Understanding the properties, history, and care of these gemstones allows for a deeper appreciation of their value and significance in both historical and contemporary contexts. Whether worn as a piece of jewelry or cherished as a meaningful stone, a July birthstone is a timeless reflection of the month’s vibrant essence.