Ruby: How to Choose the Perfect July Birthstone Jewelry

Fiery and mesmerizing, the ruby is the birthstone for July. This gem has fascinated civilizations for centuries. Known for its deep red hue and associations with passion, protection, and prestige, the ruby has earned a place among the world’s most treasured gemstones. Whether you’re shopping for a birthday gift, commemorating an anniversary, or captivated by its allure, the ruby offers more than just beauty. This article delves into the July birthstone in depth, examining its origins and symbolism, its comparison with other red stones, methods for evaluating it, and proper care and maintenance.

What Is the Birthstone for July?

What Is Ruby?

Ruby, the birthstone for July, is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is the same family that sapphires belong to. Its name comes from the Latin word ruber, meaning red. Ruby’s intense color comes from the trace element chromium, which also causes the gemstone to fluoresce in sunlight or candlelight.

Among colored gemstones, ruby is among the most valuable per carat. Gem-quality rubies are rarer than diamonds, especially in larger sizes. Their legendary status and natural durability have made them a lasting symbol of love, strength, and nobility across cultures and generations.

What Does Ruby Symbolize?

Throughout history, ruby has represented passion, protection, and vitality:

• In ancient India, it was called ratnaraj, or "king of precious stones," believed to bring youthful energy and power.
• In Burma and China, warriors wore rubies in armor for protection and invincibility.
• In medieval Europe, ruby was believed to ensure good health, attract wealth, and inspire wisdom.

Today, ruby symbolizes deep love and commitment. It is often chosen to mark the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries.

What Color Is the July Birthstone?

The finest rubies display a vivid, slightly purplish red known as “pigeon blood” red. Rubies can also occur in hues ranging from magenta to pinkish red. Their chromium content gives them this rich palette and causes them to glow visibly in sunlight or ultraviolet light, enhancing their visual appeal.

Where Are Rubies Found Today?

The Mogok Valley in Myanmar is historically known for producing the most famous rubies. Today, rubies are mined in several regions:

• Myanmar (Burma): Home of the prized pigeon blood rubies
• Mozambique, Madagascar, Kenya, and Tanzania: Key sources in Africa
• Vietnam and Sri Lanka: Known for slightly pinkish, bright rubies
• Thailand and Cambodia: Longstanding trade centers
• Greenland: An emerging source offering ethically mined rubies

Each origin produces rubies with unique characteristics in color, clarity, and crystal structure.

How Does Ruby Compare to Other Red Gemstones?

Ruby vs Garnet

Garnet is often mistaken for ruby due to its dark red appearance, but it typically shows more brown or wine tones. It is also softer, ranking around 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. Garnet is more affordable but lacks the brilliance and glow that high-quality rubies display.

Ruby vs Red Spinel

Red spinel closely resembles ruby in both color and sparkle. Some famous “rubies” in royal collections have been identified as spinels. Spinel belongs to a different mineral group and is slightly softer, but it is untreated, less expensive, and becoming increasingly popular.

Ruby vs Red Tourmaline (Rubellite)

Rubellite is a red to purplish-pink variety of tourmaline. Although its color can be intense, it often has more inclusions and is less durable, scoring around 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. Rubellite is beautiful, but it doesn’t offer the same investment value or wearability as ruby.

What Determines the Quality and Value of a Ruby?

Color

Color is the most important factor in determining a ruby’s quality. The ideal ruby is a strong, saturated red with a slightly purplish undertone. Stones that appear too dark, too light, or have orange or brown overtones are less valuable. “Pigeon blood” red is considered the most desirable shade.

Clarity

Most rubies contain natural inclusions. Eye-clean rubies, meaning those without visible inclusions to the naked eye, are rare and command higher prices. Common inclusions include rutile silk and crystal fingerprints. Heat treatment is often used to improve clarity and appearance.

Cut

Cutting rubies requires expertise, as the stone’s crystal habit and hardness make it challenging to shape. The goal is to maximize color and minimize the visibility of inclusions. Popular shapes include oval, cushion, and mixed cuts.

Carat Weight

Rubies increase sharply in price as size increases. High-quality stones over one carat are rare. A two-carat ruby of fine quality may cost more than a diamond or sapphire of the same weight.

Origin and Certification

Origin can have a major impact on a ruby’s value. Burmese rubies from the Mogok Valley are especially prized. Other respected sources include Mozambique, Vietnam, and Madagascar. Always request certification from reputable gemological labs such as GIA, GRS, or AGL to verify authenticity, origin, and any treatments.

What About Lab-Grown Rubies?

Lab-grown rubies are real rubies, identical in chemical and physical structure to natural ones. Created under controlled conditions, they offer the same vibrant color and hardness. However, they are more affordable, usually cleaner in appearance, and lack the rarity of natural rubies.

Lab-created rubies are a practical and ethical option for budget-conscious or sustainability-minded buyers. They may not hold the same long-term value as natural rubies, but they remain a smart choice for everyday jewelry and fashion pieces.

How Should You Care for a Ruby?

How Durable Is Ruby for Jewelry?

Ruby ranks 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, just behind diamond, making it one of the most durable gemstones for jewelry.

Is Ruby Suitable for Everyday Wear?

Yes. Ruby’s hardness and structural integrity make it highly resistant to scratches and suitable for rings, earrings, and daily-wear pieces. However, like all gemstones, it should be set securely and cleaned with care to preserve its luster.

Are Most Rubies Treated or Enhanced?

Yes. Heat treatment is common and stable, improving both color and clarity. Some rubies may also be fracture-filled or diffusion-treated. Always ask about the type of treatment used, as it may affect care and long-term durability.

How Should You Clean and Care for a Ruby?

Cleaning Methods for Treated and Untreated Rubies

• Warm, soapy water with a soft brush is safe for all rubies
• Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are generally fine for untreated or heat-treated rubies
• Fracture-filled rubies require special care. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as heat and vibration can damage the filling. Instead, use lukewarm water with mild soap and a soft brush, then pat dry with a lint-free cloth.

Best Practices for Long-Term Ruby Care

• Store ruby jewelry separately to avoid scratches
• Remove jewelry during heavy work or chemical exposure
• Check prongs and settings regularly
• Have high-value pieces professionally cleaned and inspected once a year

Conclusion

Few gemstones match the ruby’s storied history, emotional depth, and visual impact. As July’s birthstone, ruby stands as a symbol of fierce love, unwavering strength, and timeless elegance. Whether you’re drawn to its intense color, rarity, or rich cultural background, a ruby is more than just a gemstone—it’s a statement of who you are and what you value.

If you're searching for a meaningful gift or a personal keepsake, ruby jewelry is a choice that transcends time. Let it be your connection to centuries of legacy and the fiery brilliance of summer.