July is one of the few months in the traditional and modern birthstone calendar to be associated with not one, but two gemstones: Ruby and Onyx. These two stones, though vastly different in appearance, share a rich historical and cultural significance that has endured for centuries. This article explores the unique qualities, origins, and symbolic meanings of both Ruby and Onyx, as well as their roles in jewelry, healing, and spiritual traditions.
The duality of July’s birthstones reflects the complexity and vibrancy of the month itself—bridging the warmth of summer with the mystique of ancient traditions. While Ruby, with its fiery red hue, is often considered the more prominent and widely recognized of the two, Onyx holds its own as a stone of strength, protection, and grounding. This article delves into the geological, historical, and cultural contexts of these two gems, providing a comprehensive overview for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry collectors, and those seeking to understand the deeper meanings behind their birthstones.
History and Lore of July’s Birthstones
Ruby: The “King of Precious Stones”
Ruby has long been revered as one of the most valuable and powerful gemstones in the world. Known as the "king of precious stones" in ancient India, it has been cherished for its rarity, beauty, and perceived mystical properties. The name "ruby" is derived from the Latin word ruber, meaning "red," and it is this deep red color—often described as "pigeon’s blood"—that makes ruby so desirable.
In ancient times, ruby was believed to possess life-giving energy and was associated with the life force of blood. In medieval Europe, it was thought to bring health, wisdom, and success in love. Some even believed that rubies could predict misfortune or danger, and others claimed that they could cure inflammatory diseases and calm anger. In Burma (now Myanmar), warriors would wear rubies in battle, believing the stone made them invincible.
Ruby’s association with July dates back to the early 20th century when the Jewelers of America officially designated it as the modern birthstone for the month. However, ruby’s significance in July predates this designation by centuries. In ancient Greece and Rome, ruby was considered a protective stone, and it was often used in amulets and talismans.
Today, ruby is also associated with the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, making it a symbol of enduring love and passion.
Onyx: The Stone of Strength and Protection
Onyx has a long and storied history as a July birthstone, dating back to the 15th century. It was traditionally associated with the month in various cultures, including Jewish, Roman, and European traditions. For centuries, onyx was widely recognized as July’s designated gemstone, celebrated for its striking appearance and believed metaphysical properties.
Onyx is a type of chalcedony, a form of microcrystalline quartz, and is known for its banded patterns in black and white or other colors. In ancient times, it was believed to provide protection against negative energies and to bring strength and courage to the wearer. The Romans and Greeks often carried sardonyx (a type of onyx with red bands) into battle, engraving them with images of Mars, the god of war, or Hercules, the hero of strength.
Onyx was also associated with the zodiac sign Leo, which spans part of July, further cementing its symbolic tie to the month. Despite the shift in the 1912 standardized list of birthstones, where ruby was officially named the primary July birthstone in the United States, onyx has remained an acknowledged alternative and continues to be favored for its bold, modern aesthetic.
Geological Formation and Sources of July’s Birthstones
Ruby: A Product of High-Pressure, High-Temperature Environments
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). What gives ruby its signature red color is the trace element chromium. The more chromium present in the corundum crystal lattice, the deeper the red color. The finest and most valuable rubies are those with a deep red hue that has a slight purplish tone, known in the trade as "pigeon’s blood."
Rubies form in metamorphic and igneous rock environments, often under conditions of high pressure and high temperature. The most famous source of rubies is Myanmar, particularly the Mogok area, which has been producing high-quality rubies for over 500 years. Vietnam is another major source, especially for rubies with a distinctive pinkish red hue. Other notable ruby-producing countries include Mozambique, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Tanzania, and Madagascar.
Rubies are generally found in deposits known as placer deposits, where the gemstone has been eroded from its original rock formation and concentrated in alluvial or riverbed deposits. These deposits are often mined using traditional methods, though modern mining techniques are increasingly being used to extract larger quantities.
Onyx: A Chalcedony with a Grounded Presence
Onyx is a form of chalcedony, a microcrystalline variety of quartz (SiO₂). It is typically composed of two distinct layers of color—most commonly black and white—though other color combinations exist. The most valuable and sought-after onyx is the black onyx, which has a deep, uniform black color with minimal banding.
Onyx is formed through the slow deposition of silica-rich solutions in cavities and cracks within rocks. The banding that characterizes onyx is the result of periodic changes in the chemical composition of the solution, leading to alternating layers of color. The most famous source of black onyx is Brazil, particularly in the state of Minas Gerais, which produces some of the finest and most consistent black onyx in the world.
Other notable sources of onyx include India, Uruguay, and the United States. Unlike ruby, which is primarily found in metamorphic and igneous rocks, onyx is more commonly found in sedimentary rocks, particularly in volcanic regions where silica-rich water can seep into cracks and form the gemstone over time.
Gemological Properties of July’s Birthstones
Ruby: The Red King of Gems
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Al₂O₃ with trace chromium (Cr) |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 9 |
| Refractive Index | 1.76–1.78 |
| Color | Red to pinkish red (with chromium) |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Specific Gravity | 3.95–4.05 |
| Cleavage | Basal (perfect) |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Inclusions | Common (rutile needles, silk-like inclusions) |
| Cut | Typically oval, emerald, or cushion cuts |
| Best Color | "Pigeon’s blood" (deep red with a slight purplish tone) |
Ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, second only to diamond on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes it highly durable and suitable for use in rings and other everyday jewelry. However, due to its basal cleavage, ruby can be prone to chipping if struck at the right angle. It is also sensitive to high heat and should be handled with care during jewelry repair and cleaning.
Onyx: The Grounded Gem
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | SiO₂ (quartz) |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5–7 |
| Refractive Index | 1.48–1.53 |
| Color | Black and white banded (most common), other colors also exist |
| Luster | Waxy to vitreous |
| Transparency | Translucent to opaque |
| Specific Gravity | 2.58–2.64 |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Inclusions | Minimal |
| Cut | Typically cabochon or smooth, polished surfaces |
| Best Color | Uniform black with sharp banding |
Onyx is a microcrystalline quartz with a hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it relatively durable and suitable for a wide range of jewelry. Unlike ruby, onyx has no cleavage, which makes it more resistant to chipping. It is also less sensitive to heat, making it a good choice for everyday wear. The most popular form of onyx is black onyx, which is often used in rings, pendants, and bracelets.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Ruby: The Stone of Passion and Power
Ruby has long been associated with passion, power, and vitality. In many ancient cultures, ruby was believed to represent the life force of the universe, and it was often used in amulets and talismans to protect the wearer from harm. The red color of ruby is associated with love, courage, and energy, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and romantic jewelry.
In Indian culture, ruby was considered the "king of gems" and was believed to bring wealth, success, and protection. In Burmese tradition, warriors wore ruby in battle to ensure invincibility. In European medieval lore, ruby was believed to bring health, wisdom, and success in love.
Modern metaphysical beliefs also associate ruby with activating the heart and root chakras, promoting emotional healing, and enhancing self-confidence.
Onyx: The Stone of Protection and Grounding
Onyx is known as a stone of protection and grounding, often used to absorb negative energy and promote emotional stability. In ancient times, onyx was believed to protect the wearer from the bite of scorpions, and it was carried by warriors for courage and strength. It was also used in Roman and Greek amulets to provide protection in battle.
In modern metaphysical practices, onyx is believed to help with emotional balance, reducing stress, and enhancing willpower. It is often recommended for those who feel overwhelmed or emotionally unstable. Black onyx, in particular, is associated with grounding and protection, making it a popular stone for meditation and spiritual practices.
Care and Cleaning of July’s Birthstones
Ruby
Ruby is a very durable gemstone, but due to its basal cleavage, it can be susceptible to chipping if struck at the right angle. When cleaning ruby jewelry, it is best to use a mild soap and warm water solution, followed by a soft-bristled brush and a soft cloth to dry. Avoid using steam cleaners or ultrasonic cleaners, as they may cause damage to the stone or loosen any settings.
To maintain the brilliance of ruby, it is important to inspect the jewelry regularly for loose stones or worn prongs. If any damage is detected, it is best to have it repaired by a professional jeweler.
Onyx
Onyx is relatively easy to clean and maintain. Due to its microcrystalline structure, it is more resistant to scratches and chipping than ruby. To clean onyx jewelry, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals, as they can dull the surface of the stone.
Because onyx is often used in cabochon form, it is less prone to damage than faceted gemstones. However, it is still important to inspect the jewelry for loose stones or damaged settings and have any necessary repairs done promptly.
Conclusion
July’s dual birthstones—Ruby and Onyx—each carry a rich legacy of history, beauty, and symbolism. Ruby, with its fiery red hue and powerful associations with passion and vitality, has long been revered as one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world. Onyx, with its bold banded patterns and grounding properties, provides a striking contrast to ruby and has been cherished for its protective and stabilizing qualities.
While ruby was officially designated as the modern birthstone for July in the 1950s, onyx remains an acknowledged and respected alternative, continuing to be appreciated for its bold, modern aesthetic and deep metaphysical significance. Whether you choose ruby for its vibrant energy or onyx for its grounding presence, both stones offer a meaningful and beautiful connection to the month of July.