July’s birthstone, the ruby, is renowned for its striking red hue, a color that has captivated gemstone lovers, jewelers, and historians for centuries. As a corundum gemstone, ruby is second only to the diamond in hardness, making it one of the most durable and cherished gems in the world. Its deep red color, often described as “pigeon’s blood,” is not just a visual marvel but also a symbol of passion, power, and vitality. This article delves into the color of July’s birthstone, exploring its geological origins, symbolic meanings, and cultural significance across time.
History and Lore
The ruby has long been associated with strength and nobility. In ancient India, it was known as ratnaraj, meaning "king of precious stones," due to its rarity, hardness, and intense red color. The gem was believed to possess almost mystical powers, including the ability to predict misfortune or danger and to bring health, wisdom, and success in love. These beliefs were echoed in Medieval Europe, where rubies were seen as symbols of divine power and protection.
Burmese warriors, in particular, were known to wear rubies in battle, believing the gemstone made them invincible. This belief was likely influenced by the ruby’s red color, which was associated with lifeblood and vitality. In many ancient cultures, the ruby was thought to enhance the vitality of the wearer and protect them from harm.
Throughout history, the ruby has also been a symbol of love and passion. Its deep red color mirrors the hue of blood and the heart, making it a fitting representation of romantic love. In some traditions, rubies were believed to have the power to strengthen love and loyalty between couples. These associations have endured into modern times, where the ruby is still a popular choice for engagement rings and other romantic jewelry.
Geological Formation and Sources
Rubies owe their vibrant red color to the presence of chromium, a trace element that replaces some of the aluminum atoms in the corundum crystal lattice. The more chromium present, the stronger the red color. The finest rubies, known as “pigeon’s blood” rubies, exhibit a deep red color with a subtle hint of blue or purple. This color is considered the most valuable and desirable in the gem trade.
Rubies are primarily found in metamorphic rocks, where they form under high pressure and temperature conditions. The most famous sources of rubies include Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Tanzania. Each of these regions produces rubies with slightly different characteristics, but all are prized for their color and brilliance.
Myanmar, in particular, is known for producing some of the finest rubies in the world, especially those with the coveted “pigeon’s blood” color. These rubies are formed in marble deposits and are often found in alluvial gravels near the Mogok region. Thai rubies, on the other hand, tend to have a more pinkish or orangish hue, while Sri Lankan rubies are known for their clarity and brilliance.
The rarity of high-quality rubies contributes to their value. Due to the specific geological conditions required for their formation, rubies are not found in large quantities. This scarcity, combined with their intense red color and historical significance, makes them one of the most valuable gemstones in the world.
Gemological Properties
From a gemological perspective, rubies are among the most durable gemstones. With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale (second only to the diamond), rubies are ideal for use in everyday jewelry, including rings and bracelets. Their durability makes them suitable for a wide range of jewelry designs and styles.
In terms of clarity, rubies can vary from transparent to opaque, with the most valuable stones being free of visible inclusions. However, most rubies contain small inclusions that are considered natural and add to their character. These inclusions can include needle-like rutile crystals, which are often referred to as “silk” and can enhance the gemstone’s color by scattering light.
Rubies are typically cut in a variety of styles, including emerald, oval, round, and princess cuts. The choice of cut depends on the shape and size of the rough stone, as well as the desired final appearance. The most popular cut for rubies is the oval cut, as it tends to maximize the gem’s color and brilliance.
The carat weight of a ruby can also affect its value. While larger rubies are generally more valuable, the price per carat increases exponentially as the size of the stone increases. This is due to the rarity of large, high-quality rubies and the increased difficulty in finding and cutting such stones.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
In addition to its physical properties, the ruby holds a rich history of symbolism and metaphysical beliefs. Across different cultures and time periods, rubies have been associated with a wide range of meanings and powers.
In ancient India, rubies were believed to enhance vitality and energy, making them a popular choice for those seeking strength and endurance. Some sources suggest that rubies were used in traditional medicine to treat inflammatory conditions and to promote general health and well-being. These beliefs have persisted into modern times, with some people still using rubies for healing and spiritual purposes.
In Western traditions, rubies have long been associated with love and passion. Their deep red color is often linked to the heart and emotions, making them a popular choice for romantic jewelry. Rubies are also believed to bring good fortune and to protect the wearer from negative influences. This protective power was especially valued in times of war, when warriors would wear rubies to ensure safety and success on the battlefield.
Modern metaphysical beliefs about rubies continue to emphasize their connection to the heart and emotions. Some practitioners believe that rubies can help to open the heart chakra, promoting love, compassion, and emotional healing. Others use rubies as a tool for meditation and spiritual growth, believing that the gemstone can enhance intuition and bring clarity to the mind.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their hardness and durability, rubies are relatively easy to care for. However, to maintain their brilliance and longevity, it is important to handle and clean them properly.
Rubies should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, using a soft brush to remove dirt and debris. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the gemstone or the surrounding metal. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for rubies, but it is always best to consult a professional jeweler to ensure the safest cleaning method.
When storing rubies, it is advisable to keep them in a soft cloth or jewelry box to prevent scratches from other gemstones. Rubies should also be kept away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight, as these can cause the gemstone to fade or lose its luster.
For more delicate pieces, such as rings with smaller rubies, it is important to remove them before engaging in activities that could cause damage. While rubies are hard enough to withstand normal wear and tear, they can still be chipped or cracked if subjected to a strong impact.
Conclusion
July’s birthstone, the ruby, is a gemstone of deep red color, rich history, and enduring symbolism. From its geological formation in the earth’s crust to its role in ancient traditions and modern jewelry, the ruby continues to captivate and inspire. Whether worn as a symbol of love, power, or protection, the ruby remains one of the most cherished and valuable gemstones in the world. Its vibrant red hue, combined with its durability and beauty, makes it a timeless choice for those born in July and for anyone who appreciates the allure of fine gemstones.