July babies are fortunate to have one of the most captivating gemstones as their birthstone — the ruby. Known for its vibrant red colour and rich history, the ruby has captivated hearts and minds for centuries. In this blog, we will explore the mesmerising world of the July birthstone, the ruby. Join us as we uncover the fascinating characteristics, symbolism, and historical significance of this remarkable gemstone.

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The Allure of the Ruby:

Rubies, with their intense red hue, have long been associated with passion, love, and courage. Their fiery brilliance and timeless beauty make them a prized gemstone. Rubies belong to the corundum mineral family, alongside sapphires, and are second only to diamonds in terms of hardness.

Symbolism and Meaning:

Throughout history and across cultures, rubies have held symbolic significance. Here are some of the meanings associated with this magnificent gemstone:

Love and Passion:

Rubies are often seen as symbols of passionate love, desire, and deep affection. They are believed to ignite feelings of passion and bring vitality to relationships.

Vitality and Energy:

The ruby's vibrant red colour is associated with energy, vitality, and life force. It is believed to stimulate motivation, enthusiasm, and courage, empowering the wearer to pursue their dreams.

Protection and Prosperity:

In many cultures, rubies were considered talismans of protection. They were believed to ward off negative energies, offer protection from harm, and bring good fortune and abundance to the wearer.

Characteristics and Quality Factors:

To better understand the value and quality of rubies, it is important to consider the following characteristics:

Colour:

The most desirable rubies display a vivid, intense red hue often referred to as "pigeon blood red". The presence of secondary hues, such as purple or orange, can affect the value of the stone.

Clarity:

Rubies may contain natural inclusions, which are often referred to as "silk". These inclusions can create a phenomenon called asterism, where the stone exhibits a star-like pattern when cut into a cabochon shape.

Cut:

Rubies are cut into various shapes to showcase their beauty. The cut should enhance the stone's colour and brilliance while maintaining good proportions.

Carat Weight:

Rubies are available in a range of sizes, and larger rubies are rarer and more valuable than smaller ones.

Historical Significance:

Rubies have adorned the crowns, jewellery, and regalia of royalty and the elite for centuries. They have held great significance in many cultures, including ancient Indian and Burmese civilizations. Rubies were believed to possess mystical powers and were often associated with protection, passion, and royalty.

Caring for Ruby Jewellery:

To ensure the longevity and brilliance of your ruby jewellery, consider the following care tips:

Cleaning:

Gently clean your ruby jewellery using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners.

Storage:

Store your ruby jewellery in a separate compartment or pouch to prevent scratching from other gemstones or metals.

Protection:

As with any gemstone, avoid exposing rubies to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and sharp blows that could cause damage.

The ruby, with its alluring red colour and timeless elegance, is a birthstone that truly stands out. Symbolising love, vitality, and protection, it carries a rich historical significance that continues to captivate admirers. Whether you're celebrating a July birthday or simply drawn to the beauty of rubies, this gemstone embodies passion, courage, and prosperity. Embrace the enchanting allure of the ruby and let it ignite your own inner fire and zest for life.

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Until next time jewellery makers!

- JM