Known as the king of precious stones, rubies have captivated humanity for millennia with their deep red hue and undeniable allure. As the birthstone for July, ruby jewellery is a meaningful and luxurious gift for those born in this vibrant month. Beyond their beauty, the ruby birthstone carries a rich cultural and historical legacy, revered by royalty and sought after by collectors across centuries. In this blog, we’ll explore their symbolism, ancient origins, and the remarkable characteristics that continue to set them apart from other gemstones.
Historical Significance of Rubies
Rubies have long been prized in ancient civilisations, especially in India and Burma (now Myanmar), where they were revered as symbols of power, passion, and protection. In Sanskrit texts, rubies were called ratnaraj, meaning "King of Precious Stones," a title that reflected their supreme status among precious stones. One reason for this is their deep red hue that resembles blood, which was believed to hold the power of life and represented the strongest of emotions at both sides of the spectrum: love and fury, as well as ardour and rage.
The earliest recorded ruby mining took place in the famed Mogok region of Myanmar around 2500 BC. During this time, the largest rubies were taken directly to the ruler of Burma, becoming part of the royal treasury and symbolising wealth and authority. These exquisite Burmese rubies were cherished by royalty and nobility across Asia and Europe, often adorned in crowns, talismans, and ceremonial armour.
Symbolism and Meaning of July Birthstone
Throughout history, rubies have been associated with intense emotion, vitality, and spiritual protection. Their fiery colour and luminous energy have made them powerful emblems in various cultures.
Passion and Love
Rubies are the gemstone of the heart. Often gifted as a symbol of love, they are believed to ignite passion and deepen romantic connections. The July birthstone’s enduring red hue is synonymous with desire and devotion.
Vitality and Energy
The bold colour of the July birthstone has long represented life force and vitality. Ancient cultures believed that wearing rubies could invigorate the body and boost enthusiasm, making them a talisman for strength and motivation.
Power and Royalty
From ancient India to the courts of European monarchs, rubies have always been associated with royalty. Their rich red glow symbolised leadership, courage, and the divine right to rule.
Health and Protection
Rubies were believed to offer protective properties, shielding the wearer from negative energies and even physical harm. Some traditions held that rubies could detect danger by changing colour.
Physical Properties of Rubies
Rubies are as enduring as they are beautiful, making them a stunning choice for everyday jewellery. Here are the properties that set them apart from other gemstones:
Composition
Rubies are composed of the mineral corundum, and their signature red colour comes from traces of chromium. The presence of chromium not only gives rubies their hue but also influences their fluorescence and overall glow.
Hardness
Rubies score an impressive nine on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them second only to diamonds in durability. This makes ruby rings, earrings, and necklaces suitable for daily wear.
The 4Cs: Factors Affecting Ruby Quality
Like diamonds, rubies are evaluated using the 4Cs: Colour, Clarity, Cut, and Carat Weight, all of which determine their beauty and value.
Colour
Ruby colours range from delicate pinkish-reds to rich, deep reds with hints of blue. The most sought-after hue is known as "pigeon’s blood,” a vibrant red with a slight bluish undertone. A pigeon’s blood ruby jewellery commands exceptional value.
Clarity
It’s rare to find rubies completely free of inclusions. These natural markings can indicate authenticity and, in some cases, increase value. For example, asterism, a star-like pattern caused by needle-like inclusions, can create a stunning visual effect in star rubies.
Cut
A ruby’s cut enhances its brilliance, colour, and weight. Oval, cushion, and pear shapes are among the most popular cuts for rubies, each designed to maximise sparkle and symmetry.
Carat Weight
Larger rubies are significantly rarer than smaller stones, and their value rises exponentially with size. A high-quality ruby over one carat is considered a prized investment.
Caring for Your Ruby Jewellery
With the right care, your ruby jewellery will retain its radiance for generations. Here’s how:
Regular Cleaning & Proper Storage
Clean your ruby pieces gently using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as heat and vibrations can damage treated stones or settings. Store ruby jewellery separately in a soft pouch or lined box to prevent scratching.
Professional Maintenance
We recommend having your ruby jewellery professionally cleaned and inspected once a year to maintain its brilliance and ensure all settings remain secure.
Alternative July Birthstones
While rubies are the traditional July birthstone, alternatives like onyx and carnelian offer their own appeal. Each has unique colours and symbolic meanings that reflect different aspects of style and personality. Onyx is known for its deep black hue and protective qualities, while carnelian is known for its symbolism of courage and boldness. However, when it comes to luxury, beauty, and prestige, rubies remain unparalleled. Their rarity, historical significance, and association with royalty continue to set them apart, making them the quintessential choice for those celebrating a July birthday or seeking a gem with enduring allure.
Redefine Luxury with Handpicked Ruby Jewellery
Celebrate your July birthday or simply indulge in the timeless allure of ruby with Paul Bram’s hand-selected collection of exquisite ruby jewellery. Discover pieces that redefine elegance and craftsmanship. Explore our ruby collection today.