Those who in July are born;
Then they'll be exempt and free
From love's doubts and anxiety."
The Fiery Allure of Rubies
Rubies, the birthstone for July, are known for their vibrant red color, symbolizing love, passion, and power. This stunning gemstone belongs to the corundum family, the same mineral family as sapphires. What sets rubies apart is their rich red hue, which ranges from a deep, blood-red to a lighter, pinkish-red. The most prized rubies display a pure, vibrant red with a hint of blue, often referred to as "pigeon’s blood" rubies.
The name "ruby" is derived from the Latin word "ruber," meaning red, which is fitting for a gem that has been cherished for its bold and captivating color for centuries.
A Gem Steeped in Myth and Legend
Throughout history, rubies have been surrounded by myth and legend. Ancient Hindus referred to rubies as "Rajnapura," meaning "King of Gems," and believed that owning a ruby would grant them protection and prosperity. In Burma (now Myanmar), warriors believed that inserting rubies into their skin would make them invincible in battle.
One of the most famous legends about rubies is that they would darken in color when the wearer was in danger, returning to their original hue once the danger had passed. This belief made rubies a popular choice for royal jewelry, as they were thought to protect kings and queens from harm.
Rubies were also highly valued in ancient Rome and Greece, where they were believed to bring wisdom, health, and success in love. In medieval Europe, rubies were used to predict the future and ward off evil spirits.
Rubies in Modern Jewelry
Today, rubies continue to be a popular choice for fine jewelry, particularly for those seeking a symbol of love and passion. Rubies are often used in engagement rings, anniversary bands, and statement pieces, where their intense color adds a touch of drama and elegance.
Rubies are also a favorite among royalty and celebrities. One of the most famous ruby pieces is the Burmese Ruby Tiara, once owned by Queen Elizabeth II, which features 96 rubies set in a stunning floral design. Another iconic piece is the Sunrise Ruby, a 25.59-carat ruby that holds the record for the most expensive ruby ever sold at auction.
Caring for Your Ruby Jewelry
Rubies are incredibly durable, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making them suitable for everyday wear. However, like all gemstones, they should be treated with care to maintain their brilliance. To keep your ruby jewelry looking its best, clean it regularly with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid exposing rubies to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures, as this can damage the stone.
Whether you’re drawn to rubies for their bold color, their rich history, or their symbolic meaning, these fiery gems are a perfect choice for those born in July or anyone looking to add a touch of passion to their jewelry collection.
Ignite your passion with the fiery beauty of rubies. Contact us to create your custom jewelry!
