July, a vibrant month of summer, is uniquely graced with not one but two birthstones: Ruby and Onyx. These gemstones have long been cherished for their aesthetic beauty, symbolic meanings, and historical significance. While Ruby is the more widely recognized modern birthstone for July, Onyx holds a distinguished place in the month’s gemstone tradition. This article delves into the geological, historical, and cultural dimensions of both Ruby and Onyx, offering a comprehensive exploration of their roles as July birthstones.
Introduction
The month of July is associated with two distinct gemstones: Ruby and Onyx. Ruby, a vivid red gemstone, is renowned for its brilliance and symbolic association with love and vitality. Onyx, a sleek and dark chalcedony, is often linked with protection and grounding. Together, these stones reflect the duality of July’s zodiac signs—Cancer and Leo—with Ruby aligning with Cancer and Onyx with Leo. This article explores the origins, properties, cultural meanings, and care of these two remarkable stones, offering readers a deeper appreciation of their significance in both gemological and cultural contexts.
History and Lore
The Significance of Ruby in July
Ruby has a rich and storied history that spans centuries and continents. Known as the "king of precious stones" in ancient India, Ruby was prized for its rarity, hardness, and beauty. Its deep red color, often described as "pigeon’s blood," was believed to symbolize life force and vitality. In medieval Europe, Ruby was associated with power, wisdom, and success in love. It was also thought to have the ability to predict misfortune or danger and to cure inflammatory diseases.
Burmese warriors of the past believed that Ruby would make them invincible in battle, reinforcing its reputation as a stone of strength and courage. These beliefs, rooted in cultural traditions, have contributed to Ruby's enduring appeal as a July birthstone. As a result, Ruby remains a popular choice for jewelry and is often given as a gift to celebrate birthdays and significant life events.
Ruby was officially designated as the modern birthstone for July by the Jewelers of America in the 1950s. However, it is also celebrated as a traditional birthstone, with historical roots stretching back to ancient civilizations. Today, Ruby is not only associated with July but also with the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, further cementing its status as a gemstone of lasting significance.
The Historical Role of Onyx in July
Onyx has a long-standing tradition as a July birthstone, with its use dating back to the 15th century. It was widely recognized in Jewish, Roman, and European cultures, often being associated with protection and emotional balance. Onyx was particularly valued for its ability to absorb negative energy and was believed to bring courage and stability to its wearer.
In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers—now known as Jewelers of America—published a standardized list of birthstones, officially replacing Onyx with Ruby as the primary birthstone for July in the United States. Despite this shift, Onyx has remained a respected alternative birthstone for the month, especially among those who appreciate its bold, modern aesthetic and grounding properties.
Onyx’s connection to the zodiac sign Leo, which spans part of July, further reinforces its symbolic relevance to the month. As a stone of strength and resilience, Onyx is often seen as a complementary gemstone to Ruby, offering a different yet equally meaningful representation of July’s characteristics.
Geological Formation and Sources
Ruby: A Product of Extreme Conditions
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The red color of Ruby is due to trace amounts of the element chromium. The higher the concentration of chromium, the more intense the red color. The finest Rubies exhibit a deep red with a hint of purple, a shade known in the trade as "pigeon’s blood."
Rubies form under extreme geological conditions, typically in metamorphic rocks such as marble or igneous rocks like basalt. The process involves high temperatures and pressures, which facilitate the growth of corundum crystals. Over time, trace elements like chromium are incorporated into the crystal structure, resulting in the formation of Ruby.
Some of the most notable sources of Ruby include:
- Burmah (Myanmar) – Known for producing some of the finest Rubies in the world, including the famous "pigeon’s blood" variety.
- Madagascar – A major producer of high-quality Rubies, particularly in recent decades.
- Tanzania – Gaining recognition for its Rubies, which often exhibit a rich red color.
- Vietnam – Known for producing Rubies with a deep red to purplish-red hue.
These regions have contributed significantly to the global supply of Ruby, each producing stones with unique characteristics and qualities.
Onyx: A Variety of Chalcedony
Onyx is a type of chalcedony, a microcrystalline form of quartz (SiO₂). It is characterized by its parallel bands of color, typically in black and white, although it can also appear in a single color. Onyx forms in sedimentary rocks and is often found in volcanic environments.
The formation of Onyx involves the gradual deposition of silica-rich solutions in cavities or cracks in rocks. As these solutions cool and evaporate, they leave behind layers of chalcedony, which can develop into the distinct banding patterns seen in Onyx. This process can take thousands of years, resulting in the creation of a durable and visually striking gemstone.
Key sources of Onyx include:
- Brazil – One of the largest producers of Onyx, known for its high-quality and consistent supply.
- India – A significant source of Onyx, particularly for the jewelry market.
- Nepal – Known for producing Onyx with deep, rich colors.
- Mexico – A traditional source of Onyx, with a long history of use in jewelry and decorative objects.
These regions have played a crucial role in the availability and appreciation of Onyx as a gemstone, contributing to its continued relevance in July’s birthstone tradition.
Gemological Properties
Ruby: A Hard and Lustrous Gemstone
Ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, ranking at 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This high hardness makes it resistant to scratches and suitable for use in everyday jewelry. Its refractive index ranges from 1.76 to 1.78, and it exhibits strong double refraction, which can be observed under magnification.
The most desirable Rubies have a deep red color with a slight purplish undertone, often referred to as "pigeon’s blood." This coloration is highly sought after and can significantly affect the stone’s value. Rubies can vary in clarity, with some containing inclusions that are typical of natural gemstones. These inclusions, while they may affect the stone’s transparency, are often considered a hallmark of authenticity.
Ruby is also known for its strong luster, which gives it a vibrant and eye-catching appearance. When cut and polished, Ruby can display a brilliance that is second only to diamond. Common cuts for Ruby include the emerald cut, oval, and round brilliant, each enhancing the stone’s natural beauty.
Onyx: A Durable and Lustrous Stone
Onyx, being a type of chalcedony, is harder than most other types of quartz, ranking at 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This makes it suitable for use in jewelry, although it is less durable than Ruby and requires more careful handling.
Onyx has a waxy to vitreous luster, which enhances its smooth and polished appearance. It is often cut into cabochons or simple shapes to emphasize its banding and color. Unlike Ruby, Onyx does not exhibit double refraction and is typically transparent or translucent.
The specific gravity of Onyx ranges from 2.61 to 2.65, and it is composed primarily of silica (SiO₂). Onyx is known for its ability to absorb and hold color, making it an ideal material for dyeing and enhancing its appearance.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Ruby: A Stone of Passion and Vitality
Ruby has long been associated with passion, love, and vitality. In ancient times, it was believed to be a symbol of life force and was often used in jewelry to express love and devotion. The deep red color of Ruby is linked with the heart chakra and is thought to promote emotional balance and compassion.
In many cultures, Ruby was also considered a stone of protection, believed to ward off negative energies and bring good fortune. It was especially valued by warriors and leaders, who wore it to enhance their courage and strength. Ruby is also associated with confidence, motivation, and ambition, making it a popular choice for those seeking inspiration and success.
Modern gemology continues to recognize Ruby as a stone of passion and energy, with many people believing that it can enhance their vitality and emotional well-being. Its enduring popularity as a July birthstone reflects its powerful symbolism and timeless appeal.
Onyx: A Stone of Grounding and Protection
Onyx is traditionally associated with grounding, protection, and emotional balance. It is believed to absorb negative energy and promote inner strength and resilience. In ancient times, Onyx was worn as a protective talisman, particularly by warriors and travelers who needed courage and stability.
Onyx is also linked with discipline and self-control, making it a popular stone for those seeking to overcome challenges and maintain focus. It is believed to enhance willpower and determination, helping individuals stay grounded and centered.
In metaphysical practices, Onyx is often used to absorb stress and negativity, making it a valuable tool for those dealing with anxiety or emotional turmoil. Its dark, smooth appearance is seen as a symbol of inner strength and resilience, reinforcing its role as a protective and grounding stone.
Care and Cleaning
Caring for Ruby
Ruby is a durable gemstone, but it still requires proper care to maintain its beauty and longevity. Given its high hardness (9 on the Mohs scale), Ruby is resistant to scratches and abrasions, making it suitable for everyday wear. However, it can be damaged by hard knocks or impacts, so it is important to store Ruby jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Ruby is also sensitive to heat and chemicals. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause the stone to lose its color or become damaged. It is advisable to avoid exposing Ruby to harsh chemicals, such as bleach or acid, as these can erode the surface of the stone.
To clean Ruby jewelry, use a soft cloth and mild soap with warm water. Gently polish the stone with a soft brush and avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stone or loosen its setting. After cleaning, dry the Ruby with a soft cloth to maintain its luster.
Caring for Onyx
Onyx, while durable, is less resistant to scratches and abrasions compared to Ruby. It ranks at 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it more susceptible to damage from harder gemstones. It is advisable to store Onyx jewelry separately and avoid wearing it during activities that involve contact with rough surfaces.
Onyx is also sensitive to harsh chemicals and prolonged exposure to heat. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the stone to fade or lose its luster. It is best to store Onyx in a cool, dry place to preserve its color and appearance.
To clean Onyx jewelry, use a soft cloth and mild soap with warm water. Gently polish the stone with a soft brush and avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stone or remove its polish. After cleaning, dry the Onyx with a soft cloth to maintain its smooth and lustrous appearance.
Conclusion
The July birthstones—Ruby and Onyx—represent a rich tapestry of history, symbolism, and beauty. Ruby, with its deep red hue and association with passion and vitality, has long been cherished as a symbol of love and strength. Onyx, with its grounding and protective properties, offers a complementary energy that enhances the significance of July’s birthstone tradition.
Together, these gemstones reflect the duality of July’s zodiac signs—Cancer and Leo—and provide a meaningful connection to the month’s characteristics. Whether chosen for its vibrant color, historical significance, or metaphysical properties, Ruby and Onyx continue to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike.
As with any gemstone, proper care and handling are essential to preserving their beauty and value. By understanding the geological, historical, and cultural aspects of Ruby and Onyx, one can fully appreciate their enduring significance and make informed choices when selecting or caring for these remarkable stones.