July, a month synonymous with warmth and vitality, is also distinguished by its unique distinction of having not one, but two official birthstones: the vibrant ruby and the enigmatic onyx. These gemstones, while distinct in appearance and symbolism, share a rich historical tapestry and a profound connection to the human experience. This article delves into the geological, historical, and cultural aspects of both ruby and onyx, exploring their significance as birthstones for those born in July.
Introduction
The concept of birthstones dates back to ancient times, with roots in biblical texts and early mineralogical traditions. For July, the inclusion of two gemstones—ruby and onyx—reflects a blend of historical tradition and modern adaptation. While ruby is widely recognized as the primary birthstone, onyx has a long-standing association with the month and continues to be appreciated for its symbolic and aesthetic qualities.
This article will explore the geological formation and properties of both ruby and onyx, their historical and cultural significance, and their roles as birthstones. It will also touch on their metaphysical beliefs and practical care tips for preserving their beauty. By examining these elements, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the dual gemstones of July and their enduring appeal.
History and Lore
The Historical Significance of Ruby
Ruby, the gemstone that has become the primary birthstone for July, has a storied history that spans continents and centuries. Known as the "king of precious stones" in ancient India, ruby was revered for its rarity, hardness (second only to diamond), and its vibrant red hue, which symbolized life, power, and youthful energy.
In the ancient world, ruby was not merely a decorative gem but was believed to possess mystical properties. For instance, Burmese warriors carried rubies into battle, believing they made them invincible. In medieval Europe, rubies were thought to bestow health, wisdom, wealth, and success in love. These beliefs, while not scientifically grounded, underscore the deep cultural and symbolic significance of ruby.
Ruby's association with July was formalized in the 1950s by the Jewelers of America, which standardized the list of modern birthstones. However, ruby's roots as a July birthstone extend much further back. The gemstone has been linked to the month for centuries in various cultures, including those of the Romans and Europeans, where it was celebrated for its bold color and perceived metaphysical properties.
The Role of Onyx in July's Birthstone Legacy
Onyx, the second official birthstone for July, holds a long and storied history that predates the modern era. In the 15th century, onyx was widely recognized as the July birthstone in various cultures, including Jewish, Roman, and European traditions. It was valued not only for its striking appearance but also for its believed ability to absorb negative energy and provide grounding.
However, 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 an acknowledged alternative or secondary birthstone for the month and continues to be favored by those seeking a bold, modern aesthetic.
Onyx's connection to the zodiac sign Leo, which spans part of July, further cements its symbolic tie to the month. Today, onyx is appreciated not only for its sleek, sophisticated look but also for its reputation as a grounding stone believed to absorb negative energy. Its historical significance, combined with its modern appeal, makes it a compelling choice for those born in July.
Geological Formation and Sources
The Formation of Ruby
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) and is known for its exceptional hardness, ranking a 9 on the Mohs scale. The red color of ruby is due to the presence of trace amounts of chromium, which replaces some aluminum atoms in the crystal lattice. The more chromium present, the deeper and more intense the red color becomes.
The finest rubies are characterized by a deep red with a hint of purple, a color known in the trade as "pigeon's blood." This term refers to the most desirable and valuable ruby color, which is highly sought after in the gemstone market. Rubies are formed under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions deep within the Earth's crust, often in metamorphic rocks such as marble or in igneous rocks like basalt.
Historically, the most renowned rubies have been found in Myanmar (formerly Burma), where the Mogok region has produced some of the finest examples of the gemstone. Other notable sources of ruby include Sri Lanka, Kenya, Tanzania, Afghanistan, India, and Thailand. These regions have contributed to the global supply of rubies, each with its own distinct characteristics and qualities.
The Formation of Onyx
Onyx, a type of chalcedony, is a microcrystalline variety of quartz composed of silicon dioxide (SiO₂). It is formed through the slow deposition of silica-rich water in cavities within rocks, often over long periods of geological time. Onyx is characterized by its parallel bands of color, typically black and white, though it can also occur in other combinations such as red and white or yellow and white.
The formation of onyx is closely related to the presence of impurities, which give the stone its distinctive banding. These impurities can include minerals such as iron, which can produce red or brown hues, or manganese, which can create black or gray tones. The parallel banding in onyx is a result of periodic changes in the conditions of the environment where the silica-rich water is deposited, such as variations in temperature, pressure, or the concentration of dissolved minerals.
Historically, onyx has been sourced from various parts of the world, including Brazil, India, Africa, and the United States. Brazil is one of the largest producers of onyx today, particularly in the state of Minas Gerais, where the gemstone is found in abundance. Indian onyx, particularly from the state of Rajasthan, is also highly valued for its quality and beauty.
Gemological Properties
The Scientific Characteristics of Ruby
Ruby is one of the most coveted gemstones in the world, and its scientific properties contribute significantly to its desirability. As a variety of corundum, ruby is one of the hardest minerals, second only to diamond. This high hardness makes it extremely durable and suitable for a wide range of jewelry applications, including rings, earrings, and necklaces.
The refractive index of ruby is between 1.76 and 1.78, which means that it bends light in a way that enhances its brilliance and fire. The gemstone's refractive index, combined with its high dispersion (the ability to separate white light into its component colors), gives ruby a dazzling sparkle that is highly prized in jewelry design.
Ruby is also known for its excellent luster, which can range from vitreous (glass-like) to greasy. This luster is enhanced by proper cutting and polishing, which are essential in maximizing the gemstone's beauty. The most valuable rubies are typically cut in shapes that allow for the best display of their color and brilliance, such as the emerald cut or the oval cut.
In terms of clarity, the finest rubies are those that are free of inclusions or have only minor inclusions that do not detract from the overall beauty of the stone. However, some inclusions are actually considered characteristic of natural rubies and can help distinguish them from synthetic or treated stones. The presence of certain inclusions, such as silk-like rutile needles, can also enhance the appearance of the gemstone by creating a star effect when viewed under certain lighting conditions.
The Scientific Characteristics of Onyx
Onyx, as a microcrystalline variety of quartz, has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable and suitable for a variety of jewelry applications. However, it is not as hard as ruby, which means that it requires more care to prevent scratches and other damage. The gemstone's relatively low hardness also means that it is more susceptible to chipping or breaking, especially if subjected to impact or pressure.
The refractive index of onyx is between 1.48 and 1.53, which is lower than that of ruby. This means that onyx does not bend light as effectively as ruby, and it does not exhibit the same level of brilliance or fire. However, onyx is known for its smooth, even surface and its ability to take a high polish, which enhances its aesthetic appeal.
In terms of color, onyx is characterized by its parallel banding, which is a result of the periodic deposition of silica-rich water in different environmental conditions. This banding can vary in color and width, depending on the impurities present in the stone. The most common types of onyx are black onyx, which is often dyed to enhance its color, and white onyx, which is naturally pale and is sometimes used as a base for other colored onyx varieties.
Onyx is also known for its transparency, which can range from opaque to translucent. Opaque onyx is the most common type and is often used in cabochon form, while translucent onyx is less common and is typically cut into faceted shapes to enhance its appearance. The transparency of onyx can also affect its value, with more translucent stones generally being more valuable than opaque ones.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The Symbolism of Ruby
Ruby has long been associated with powerful symbols and metaphysical beliefs across various cultures. In ancient India, ruby was believed to be the "king of precious stones" due to its rarity, hardness, and beauty. It was also believed to possess mystical powers that could bring vitality, courage, and success in love. The gemstone was often worn by royalty and warriors, who believed it could protect them in battle and bring them invincibility.
In medieval Europe, ruby was thought to bestow health, wisdom, wealth, and success in love. These beliefs were rooted in the gemstone's vibrant red color, which was associated with life force and passion. Ruby was also believed to have the power to predict misfortune or danger, and some cultures even claimed that it could cure inflammatory diseases and soothe anger.
Today, ruby continues to be associated with these symbolic meanings, making it a popular choice for those seeking a gemstone that represents strength, courage, and passion. It is also a traditional gift for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, symbolizing enduring love and commitment.
The Symbolism of Onyx
Onyx has a rich history of symbolism and metaphysical beliefs, particularly in ancient and modern cultures. In many traditions, onyx is considered a grounding stone that absorbs negative energy and promotes emotional stability. It is believed to help individuals remain calm and focused, making it a popular choice for those dealing with stress or anxiety.
In ancient times, onyx was associated with protection and was often used in amulets and talismans to ward off evil spirits and negative influences. It was also believed to enhance willpower and determination, helping individuals achieve their goals and overcome obstacles. In some cultures, onyx was used to symbolize strength and resilience, particularly in times of adversity.
Modern interpretations of onyx continue to emphasize its protective and grounding properties. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to help individuals connect with their inner strength and maintain emotional balance. Onyx is also believed to promote self-discipline and encourage individuals to stay focused on their path.
Care and Cleaning
Caring for Ruby
Due to its high hardness and durability, ruby requires relatively minimal care to maintain its beauty. However, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind when cleaning and storing ruby jewelry.
To clean ruby, it is recommended to use a soft cloth and a mild detergent solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the surface of the gemstone. It is also advisable to avoid ultrasonic cleaners, as they can potentially harm the inclusions or treatments present in some rubies.
When storing ruby jewelry, it is best to keep the pieces separate to prevent scratching. Soft pouches or fabric-lined jewelry boxes are ideal for protecting the gemstone from dust and physical contact with other jewelry. Additionally, it is important to avoid exposing ruby to extreme temperatures or sudden temperature changes, as this can cause the gemstone to crack or become damaged.
Caring for Onyx
Onyx, while durable, requires more careful handling than ruby due to its lower hardness and susceptibility to scratches and chips. It is important to take extra precautions when cleaning and storing onyx jewelry.
To clean onyx, use a soft cloth and a mild detergent solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the surface of the gemstone. It is also advisable to avoid exposing onyx to prolonged periods of direct sunlight or high heat, as this can cause the color to fade or the stone to become brittle.
When storing onyx jewelry, it is best to keep the pieces separate to prevent scratching. Soft pouches or fabric-lined jewelry boxes are ideal for protecting the gemstone from dust and physical contact with other jewelry. It is also important to avoid exposing onyx to sharp objects or impacts, as this can cause the gemstone to chip or break.
Conclusion
The dual birthstones of July—ruby and onyx—each carry a unique set of properties, histories, and symbolic meanings that contribute to their enduring appeal. Ruby, with its vibrant red color and exceptional hardness, has long been associated with passion, vitality, and strength. Its rich history and cultural significance have cemented its status as the primary birthstone for July, while also making it a popular choice for jewelry and other decorative applications.
Onyx, with its striking banding and grounding properties, offers a complementary contrast to ruby. Its historical significance and metaphysical beliefs have ensured its place as an alternative birthstone for July, and its modern appeal continues to attract those who appreciate its bold, sophisticated look.
Together, these gemstones provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of birthstones and the deep connections between gemology, history, and culture. Whether worn for their beauty, their symbolism, or their historical significance, ruby and onyx continue to captivate and inspire those who appreciate the art and science of gemstones.