There are multiple gemstones that are considered the birthstone for July, but Ruby is considered the modern birthstone for July.
The ruby is and has been a hugely popular gemstone. It derives its name from the Latin word “ruber” meaning Red- the colour of love. The best colour of the ruby is a deep red with a hint of purple. This is referred to as “pigeons’ blood”. Ruby is a variety of the corundum mineral and gets the red colour from trace amounts of the element chromium. The more chromium that exists the deeper and richer is the red of the ruby.
The Ruby in Ancient Times:
Persians regarded this July birthstone as a symbol of dignity, charity, and divine power.
In Burma the ruby represented the last reincarnation stage that preceded divinity. The birthstone signified life and happiness. Warriors believed it made them invincible in battle.
In the Hindu culture ruby was one of the gems in the magical necklace of Vishnu, one of the most important holy gods and the member of holy trinity in Hinduism.
In ancient India, ruby was called the “king of precious stones” for its rarity, hardness (second only to diamond), beauty and seemingly mystical powers. Long associated with the life force blood, ruby was a symbol of power and youthful energy in Indian jewellery.
Medieval Europeans maintained that rubies bestowed health, wisdom, wealth, and success in love.
Today Ruby is a very popular birthstone with a huge number of celebrities wearing it for their occasions.
Alternate Birthstones for July
Carnelian, which is also red, Sapphire, Topaz, Agate, Beryl, and Amber.
Where is the Ruby found?
Myanmar (formerly known as Burma), is one of the oldest recorded sources of fine rubies. For more than five centuries, the Mogok area in Myanmar has produced some of the most sought-after rubies.
Vietnam has been another important source for the July birthstone since the late 20th century. The Luc Yen region in northern Vietnam, produces rubies of red to purplish red colour. Further south, the Quy Chau district has also yielded many fine rubies.
Mozambique is an important new source for the July birthstone. This African nation is home to the prolific mines at Montepuez. Rubies found there have been compared to the gems of Mogok.
For many years in the late 1900s, the ruby deposits along the border between Thailand and Cambodia were the major source of rubies in the marketplace.
Other important producers of the July birthstone include Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Tanzania, and Madagascar.
The ruby is a beautiful and expensive gemstone therefore owning a ruby should be considered a privilege as it is a very special and precious gem.