July 13th marks the birthday of individuals who are associated with a rich tapestry of gemstones. According to the provided sources, this date is linked to three distinct birthstones: Ruby, Onyx, and Turquoise, each with its own historical, cultural, and symbolic importance. This article delves into the gemological properties, historical usage, and cultural associations of these July 13th birthstones, offering an in-depth exploration suitable for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry collectors, and those curious about the significance of birthstones.
Introduction
July is one of the most diverse months in the birthstone calendar, with a wide range of gemstones assigned to it across different traditions. On July 13th, the primary birthstone is Ruby, while Onyx and Turquoise also hold significance as traditional or alternative birthstones. These gemstones have long been revered for their beauty, rarity, and symbolic meanings, often associated with power, protection, and spiritual insight.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the gemstones associated with July 13th. It explores their geological origins, historical and cultural significance, and the metaphysical properties attributed to them across various traditions. Additionally, it includes practical advice on the care and maintenance of these stones, as well as their role in modern jewelry and gemology.
History and Lore
Ruby: The King of Gems
Ruby, the modern and traditional birthstone for July, has a long and storied history across cultures. Known as the "king of gems," ruby has been treasured for millennia for its deep red color and fiery brilliance. In ancient India, ruby was regarded as a symbol of life force and power, often set into the royal regalia of emperors and kings. The stone was believed to bring good fortune, health, and victory in battle. In medieval Europe, rubies were thought to protect the wearer from danger and to promote wisdom and success in love.
The use of ruby as a July birthstone is deeply rooted in historical traditions. It was recognized as such in both the ancient and modern calendars, including the Polish, Russian, and Hindu (Ayurvedic) systems. According to a Gregorian birthstone poem:
“The glowing ruby shall adorn,
Those who in July are born;
Then they’ll be exempt and free
From love’s doubts and anxiety.”
This poetic tribute highlights the ruby's association with emotional security and inner strength.
Onyx: A Stone of Strength
Onyx is another traditional birthstone associated with July, and it appears as the July 13th birthstone in some older systems. Onyx is a form of chalcedony, a quartz-based mineral that occurs in banded patterns. The most common and historically significant variety is sardonyx, which features alternating bands of white and red. Sardonyx was especially revered in ancient Greece and Rome, where it was used in signet rings and seals. These rings were often engraved with the wearer’s name or a protective symbol and used to stamp wax on documents.
The stone was believed to bring courage and bravery, particularly in times of conflict or uncertainty. In the Russian calendar, sardonyx was considered a zodiac stone for Leo and later became associated with July as a birthstone. In some traditions, onyx was also seen as a protective stone that could ward off negative energies and promote emotional balance.
Turquoise: The Stone of Clarity
Turquoise is a traditional birthstone for July, though it is more commonly associated with December in some systems. This opaque gemstone is known for its striking blue-green color and has been used for thousands of years in jewelry, amulets, and ceremonial objects. Turquoise was especially important in ancient Egypt, where it was imported from Persia and worn by pharaohs and high priests as a symbol of divine protection.
In some traditions, turquoise is associated with spiritual discernment and clarity of mind. It was believed to help the wearer make wise decisions and connect with higher wisdom. Its use as a July birthstone, while less common than ruby or onyx, reflects its enduring appeal and symbolic power.
Geological Formation and Sources
Ruby: A Corundum Marvel
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum (Al₂O₃), which is the same mineral that forms sapphires. The difference between ruby and sapphire lies in the trace elements present: ruby gets its red color from chromium, while sapphire can appear in a range of colors due to elements like iron, titanium, or vanadium.
Ruby is one of the hardest minerals, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, second only to diamond. This durability makes it ideal for use in jewelry, though it can still be susceptible to damage from hard knocks or high heat.
Historically, the most prized rubies have come from Burma (Myanmar), particularly from the Mogok region. Other notable sources include Madagascar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan. The finest ruby color is known as "pigeon's blood," a deep red with a slight purple undertone.
Onyx: A Chalcedony Variety
Onyx is a member of the chalcedony group of minerals, which are a form of microcrystalline quartz. It forms in sedimentary and volcanic rock environments and is characterized by its banded appearance. The most valuable onyx for jewelry is sardonyx, which features distinct layers of red and white.
Sardonyx is primarily sourced from Brazil, India, and the United States. It is relatively soft compared to ruby, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it more susceptible to scratches and damage. This lower hardness means that onyx jewelry should be handled with care and cleaned gently.
Turquoise: A Hydrated Phosphate Mineral
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral with the chemical formula CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O. It forms in the oxidized zones of copper deposits and is typically found in arid regions. The most famous sources of turquoise include Nevada and Arizona in the United States, Iran, and China.
Turquoise is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, and it is also porous and sensitive to water and acidic substances. This means that it requires special care when cleaning and storing to prevent damage.
Gemological Properties
Ruby
- Chemical Formula: Al₂O₃ (with trace chromium for red color)
- Hardness (Mohs): 9
- Refractive Index: 1.76–1.78
- Color: Red, with the most prized variety being "pigeon’s blood" (deep red with a hint of purple)
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Specific Gravity: 3.95–4.05
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Cut: Often cut in round, oval, or cushion shapes to maximize brilliance
- Cleavage: None
- Fracture: Uneven
- Special Properties: Ruby can show asterism (a star effect) if it contains inclusions that reflect light in a radial pattern.
Onyx (Sardonyx)
- Chemical Formula: SiO₂ (silicon dioxide)
- Hardness (Mohs): 6.5–7
- Refractive Index: 1.486–1.530
- Color: Banded patterns of red and white (sardonyx)
- Luster: Waxy to vitreous
- Transparency: Translucent
- Specific Gravity: 2.60–2.64
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Cut: Often cut in cabochon or engraved for signet rings
- Cleavage: None
- Fracture: Uneven
- Special Properties: Sardonyx is often used in engraved jewelry and seals.
Turquoise
- Chemical Formula: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
- Hardness (Mohs): 5–6
- Refractive Index: 1.61–1.65
- Color: Blue to green, depending on copper and iron content
- Luster: Waxy to greasy
- Transparency: Opaque
- Specific Gravity: 2.72–2.85
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Cut: Usually cut in cabochon
- Cleavage: None
- Fracture: Uneven
- Special Properties: Turquoise is porous and sensitive to water and acids; it may be stabilized with resins to improve durability.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Ruby: Passion and Power
Ruby has long been associated with passion, vitality, and strength. In ancient cultures, it was believed to enhance courage and protect the wearer from harm. In Indian Ayurvedic traditions, ruby was considered a stone of the sun, associated with energy, vitality, and leadership. It was often worn by warriors and rulers to enhance their power and confidence in battle.
In the modern era, ruby continues to be seen as a symbol of love and emotional depth. It is also used in anniversary jewelry, particularly for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, where it represents enduring love and commitment.
Onyx: Protection and Balance
Onyx, particularly sardonyx, has been valued for its protective properties. In ancient Greece and Rome, it was used in signet rings that were believed to provide divine protection and wisdom. Onyx was also used to counteract negative emotions and fears, promoting a sense of inner strength and emotional balance.
In some traditions, onyx is associated with grounding and stability, helping the wearer remain calm and centered in times of stress. It is considered a useful stone for those who are easily overwhelmed or who struggle with anxiety.
Turquoise: Wisdom and Clarity
Turquoise has long been associated with spiritual insight and emotional clarity. In ancient Egypt, it was worn by pharaohs and priests as a symbol of divine protection. In Native American traditions, turquoise is considered a stone of communication with the divine and is used in ceremonies and rituals to promote wisdom and spiritual discernment.
Turquoise is also believed to have healing properties, particularly for the throat and respiratory system. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to enhance communication and intuition.
Care and Cleaning
Ruby
- Cleaning: Ruby can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using steam or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone if it has inclusions or is mounted in a delicate setting.
- Storage: Store ruby separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or sudden temperature changes.
- Avoid: Exposure to high heat, as this can cause the gem to crack or lose color.
Onyx
- Cleaning: Use warm water and a mild soap to clean onyx. Avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the surface.
- Storage: Store onyx in a soft cloth or padded box to prevent scratches.
- Avoid: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or high heat, as this can cause the stone to fade or crack.
Turquoise
- Cleaning: Clean turquoise with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid using water or steam, as this can damage the stone due to its porosity.
- Storage: Store turquoise in a cool, dry place to prevent it from drying out or cracking.
- Avoid: Exposure to water, oils, and acidic substances, as these can cause the stone to discolor or degrade.
Conclusion
July 13th is associated with three distinct gemstones: Ruby, Onyx, and Turquoise, each with its own rich history and symbolic meaning. Ruby, as the modern and traditional birthstone, represents passion, power, and emotional strength. Onyx, particularly in the form of sardonyx, is a symbol of courage and protection, while Turquoise is cherished for its spiritual insight and healing properties.
These gemstones not only reflect the beauty of nature but also carry the wisdom and beliefs of cultures across time. Whether worn as jewelry, used in meditation, or collected for their rarity, the July 13th birthstones continue to captivate and inspire those who are drawn to their allure.
Understanding the properties, history, and care requirements of these gemstones allows collectors and wearers to appreciate them in a more meaningful way. Whether you are drawn to the fiery brilliance of ruby, the banded elegance of onyx, or the serene beauty of turquoise, the birthstones of July 13th offer a unique connection to the world of gemology and its enduring traditions.