Ruby And The July Birthstone Guide

july birthstone

To begin, the Birthstone for July is the elegant Ruby. A beautiful red gemstone symbolic of love and passion. Moreover, it is said to bring success, wealth and bestow good fortune on the wearer.

Harriet Bishop’s poem…

“The gleaming Ruby should adorn,
All those who in July are born,
For thus they’ll be exempt and free,
From lovers doubt and anxiety.”

Harriet Bishop

Ruby and Pear Shaped Diamond Engagement Ring for July Birthstone

What is Ruby?

Firstly, it is made from a variety of the mineral corundum, which interestingly shares the same properties as the September birthstone sapphire.

In conclusion, rubies and sapphires are the same gem with colour being the ultimate deciding factor. 

In its purest form, the mineral corundum is colourless. Trace elements that become part of the mineral’s crystal structure cause variations in its colour.

Chromium is the trace element that causes ruby’s red, ranging from an orangey-red to a purplish red.

The strength of ruby’s red depends on how much chromium is present—the more chromium, the stronger the red colour. Chromium can also cause fluorescence, which adds to the intensity of the red colour. 

Pigeon’s Blood Red

Because Ruby colours vary, certain general expressions describe the more desirable colours for this exceptional gemstone.

“Pigeon Blood” is one such term used to describe a particularly intense ruby red colour.

Blood-red examples of ruby serve many jewellery themes, including jewellery related to Gothic themes, often combined with black rhodium-plated gold. 

Besides a refined collection of ruby and diamond designs, we can customise most of our jewellery designs to include Rubies.

In addition, our bespoke service includes a full and detailed no-obligation quotation based on your preferred design, set with any gemstone combination.

History and origin

To begin, ‘Ruby’ is born from the Latin word ‘Ruber’ which translates to ‘Red.’ It was thought due to the glowing red of this precious ruby gemstone that it had a flame burning deep inside.

Secondly, rubies date back to the first century AD and are also mentioned in the Bible 4 times. In the ancient language of Sanskrit, ruby is called ratnaraj, or “king of precious stones.” Due to some rubies being deep red, believed to symbolise blood and be the symbol of life itself.

Healing Properties

“Ruby encourages passion and a zest for life. It improves motivation and the setting of realistic goals.

It balances the heart and instils confidence. Said to encourage joy, spontaneity, laughter and courage. It promotes positive dreams and stimulates the pineal gland. Aids in retaining wealth and passion.”

wizard of oz ruby slippers

To commemorate the 50th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz, Harry Winston created genuine ruby slippers set with 4,600 stones. – Courtesy Harry Winston

Ruby Ring Designs

This romantic gemstone makes a perfect alternative to mainstream ring designs. Its vivid colour and variation of shapes and sizes subsequently make it ideal for the majority of ring designs.

In addition to solitaire rings, this gemstone has a dramatic effect when set alongside a halo or cluster of diamonds. As a result of the deep red contrasting with brilliant white diamonds.

diamond cluster design

Generally, this gemstone is most popular in Yellow Gold, with its deep red colour against the rich yellow colour. Additionally, most vintage designs will be seen with this combination consequently, remaining a popular choice today.

Remodelling

The most popular request is our ring remodelling service. Perfect for clients looking to upgrade the metal, centre stone, or even the design of a current ring.

Our client contacted us wishing to take advantage of our complete bespoke service, to re-create a very sentimental ring design that subsequently was lost.

lost ring
Lost ring design, sent by our client.
ring re created
The final result using our bespoke option.

Bespoke Ruby Statement Ring

This incredible vintage ruby and diamond ring design was handcrafted through our bespoke ring design service.

The ring style was inspired by a vintage ring design with a combination of rubies and diamonds. 

Featuring a total of 2.55cts of oval rubies, alongside 0.70cts princess cut brilliant white diamonds. The design was created to span 10mm at the widest stone set point and taper to 6.5mm behind the finger.

The Ruby anniversary is represented by 40 years of marriage. Traditionally, a Ruby gemstone is presented to mark the occasion.

Ruby and diamond bubble ring in the Carnegie design.

In addition, the symbolism associated with this vibrant red stone. Representing romance, devotion and passion, making it very worthy of such an amazing milestone.

Gift Inspiration

A range of July birthstone gifts available from both our website and the Ryde showroom.

July Birthstone Necklace

Ruby solitaire necklace- July birthstone gift
Solitaire Ruby Necklace

This delicate and striking Ruby birthstone necklace is available in 9ct yellow gold. Hanging from a delicate 16″ gold chain featuring a 4mm stone with a six-claw setting. Available for immediate dispatch or collection from our Ryde Showroom.

July Birthstone Earrings

Yellow gold cluster earrings
Swirl Stud Earrings

These ruby and diamond stud earrings contrast beautifully with 9ct yellow gold and white diamonds. Secured to the ear with a post and secure butterfly backs.

July Birthstone – Ruby Halo Necklace

Halo necklace

Centrally set with an oval measuring 5mm x 4mm, encircled with a halo of 8 – cut diamonds. Crafted in 9ct White Gold. In addition, it makes the perfect gift for either a July birthday or 40th wedding anniversary.

Alternative Gemstones

Lastly, is there an alternative gemstone? Most of the time, the symbolism of a Ruby gemstone is the most important detail to feature.

However, there are alternatives to consider for someone looking for the overall look, but not necessarily having the budget to fit.

For example, the Garnet. Associated with a dark red colour, garnets come in many different hues and in a variety of colours.

Rich in colour, transparent and inexpensive, garnet makes an affordable choice when it comes to jewellery. Commonly associated with the birth month – January.

example of garnet

 

Get In Touch

We would be more than happy to quote you on most of our rings if you wished to add some Ruby glamour to one of our designs! Contact us today with any ideas you have.

What is the meaning and symbolism of rubies?

Rubies symbolize love, passion, courage, and wealth. They are associated with vitality, energy, and the fire of life.

How much is a ruby worth?

The value depends on various factors such as size, colour, clarity, and overall quality. Fine rubies can range from a few hundred dollars per carat to thousands of dollars per carat, and exceptionally rare or large rubies can command even higher prices.

How to identify a real ruby?

Look for deep red colour, high clarity, and excellent brilliance. A genuine ruby should also have a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale and may display natural inclusions.

What are the best ruby mines in the world?

Some of the renowned ruby mines include those in Myanmar (formerly Burma), particularly the Mogok Valley, as well as mines in Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.

What is the difference between a ruby and a pink sapphire?

The difference between a ruby and a pink sapphire is the colour. Rubies are red, ranging from a rich crimson to a lighter pinkish-red hue, while pink sapphires display a lighter pink colour. However, both rubies and pink sapphires belong to the same mineral family, corundum.

About Emily Austin

Emily is one of our dedicated team members. She remains a valued member of our expert team and a part of the Serendipity Diamond family. Emily works on almost every aspect of our shop, from helping customers to updating our social media pages. She also takes care of many of our international deliveries, ensuring they arrive with clients safely as expected. Contact Emily directly by email or chat with her most days online.

About Emily Austin

Emily is one of our dedicated team members. She remains a valued member of our expert team and a part of the Serendipity Diamond family. Emily works on almost every aspect of our shop, from helping customers to updating our social media pages. She also takes care of many of our international deliveries, ensuring they arrive with clients safely as expected. Contact Emily directly by email or chat with her most days online.