The ruby, a gemstone celebrated for its vibrant red hue, holds a prominent position as the birthstone for July. Revered throughout history for its beauty and perceived powers, the ruby continues to captivate as a symbol of passion, protection, and prosperity. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of this remarkable gem, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
The ruby’s history is deeply intertwined with human civilization, stretching back millennia. While specific dates of initial discovery are not detailed in the provided sources, the gem’s enduring appeal is evident in its consistent association with royalty and power. The sources indicate that ruby is a stone known to “boost confidence, motivation, and success,” and is considered “a stone of power and determination.” This symbolism likely contributed to its historical value and desirability.
The traditional and modern birthstone charts both list ruby as the stone for July, demonstrating its long-standing recognition as the definitive gem for those born in that month. Sources note that while jewelers continue to add options to the modern birthstone chart, including spinel and citrine, ruby remains a consistent choice. This suggests a cultural preference and enduring association with the month of July.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources do not detail the specific geological processes involved in ruby formation or a comprehensive list of mining locations. However, they do offer guidance on care, suggesting rubies, like other gemstones, originate from “a wide variety of raw materials.” The sources emphasize the importance of avoiding harsh chemicals and high heat, implying a sensitivity inherent in the stone’s composition.
The manufacturing details provided by Starling Jewelry indicate that rubies are set into jewelry crafted in California, suggesting a supply chain that includes sourcing the gems from various locations. Honey Willow, a jewelry business based in Bath, England, also utilizes rubies in its designs, further illustrating the global nature of the gemstone trade.
Gemological Properties
The ruby’s defining characteristic is its color – a vibrant, often deep red. The sources describe the color as “bright, pink-red.” Gemological properties beyond color are limited in the provided materials. However, some details are available.
The sources indicate that rubies can be set in various metals, including 14k gold-fill (Honey Willow), sterling silver with rhodium (Nancy Wallis Designs), and 14k solid yellow, white, or rose gold (Starling Jewelry). Starling Jewelry specifies a ruby weight of “0.20 -0.22tcw” (total carat weight) and a 4mm round setting.
The sources also touch upon durability, noting that gemstones like rubies require careful handling. Starling Jewelry advises avoiding hot water and chemicals like chlorine, bleach, ammonia, and hair spray, suggesting the stone may be susceptible to damage from these substances. This implies a need for specific care and maintenance to preserve the ruby’s brilliance.
A table summarizing the available gemological data is provided below:
| Property | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Bright, pink-red | Nancy Wallis Designs |
| Carat Weight | 0.20 - 0.22tcw | Starling Jewelry |
| Setting Size | 4mm Round | Starling Jewelry |
| Metal Settings | 14k Gold, Sterling Silver | Multiple |
| Durability | Sensitive to heat & chemicals | Starling Jewelry |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The ruby is rich in symbolism, often associated with positive attributes. According to one source, ruby is “known to boost confidence, motivation, and success.” It is described as “a stone of power and determination,” suggesting a belief in its ability to empower the wearer.
The association with July birthdays further reinforces the ruby’s positive connotations. Giving ruby jewelry as a gift is a way to celebrate the recipient’s birth and bestow upon them the stone’s perceived benefits.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of a ruby requires careful attention. The sources emphasize avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals and high temperatures. Starling Jewelry specifically advises against using hot water, chlorine, bleach, ammonia, and hair spray. Nancy Wallis Designs recommends keeping the ruby away from moisture and removing it before bathing, swimming, or showering. Polishing with a soft cloth and storing the jewelry in a box or bag when not in use are also recommended practices. These guidelines are based on the stone’s inherent sensitivity and the potential for damage from common household substances.
Ruby in Jewelry Design
The provided sources showcase a variety of ruby earring designs. Nancy Wallis Designs offers “Tiny Dot” earrings featuring a 6mm cubic zirconia charm intended to mimic the ruby’s color. Honey Willow presents 1.5cm gold-fill hoop earrings with removable ruby birthstones. Charlotte’s Ear Piercing offers “Angel Wings” earrings with a ruby-colored stone, designed for those with sensitive ears. Finally, Starling Jewelry features ruby bezel-set earrings with friction push backs. These examples demonstrate the versatility of the ruby in contemporary jewelry design, ranging from delicate studs to more elaborate hoops.
Conclusion
The ruby, as the birthstone for July, embodies a rich history, captivating beauty, and enduring symbolism. While the provided sources offer a limited scope of detailed gemological information, they consistently portray the ruby as a gemstone of power, passion, and prosperity. Its vibrant red color, combined with its perceived metaphysical properties, continues to make it a highly sought-after gem for jewelry and a meaningful gift for those born under its radiant glow. The care instructions provided highlight the need for gentle handling to preserve its brilliance, ensuring that this timeless gemstone remains a cherished possession for generations to come.