Do you want to know what the birthstone is for July 1st, July 2nd, July 3rd… all the way to July 31st? This article will explain what the birthstone for July is, and take you through its rich history, meaning, and how to choose and care for July birthstone jewelry…
Table Of Contents
- What is the July Birthstone?
- The History of the July Birthstone
- The Symbolism and Meaning of the July Birthstone
- What Colors Does the July Birthstone Come In?
- How to Choose Ruby Birthstone?
- July Birthstone Jewelry Ideas
- Tips for Caring for Ruby Jewelry
- July Birthstone Ruby–FAQs
What is the July Birthstone?
July is the heart of summer, and its birthstone is naturally associated with words like vibrant, passionate, and energetic. So, what is the birthstone for July? Without further ado, the birthstone for July is the mesmerizing ruby (Standards designated by the Jewelers of America in 1912 and widely recognized).
The History of the July Birthstone
To understand the history of the July birthstone, we need to explore the history of rubies.
Rubies have been cherished for centuries, dating back to ancient civilizations. In Sanskrit, rubies are called “Ratnaraj,” meaning “king of gemstones.” Ancient Hindus believed that offering rubies to the god Krishna would ensure rebirth as an emperor. In Burma, people believed that rubies could make warriors invincible in battle. In medieval Europe, rubies were not only symbols of royalty and nobility but were also thought to cure ailments and protect wearers from evil and disaster.
The Largest Rubies and the Largest Gem-Grade Ruby
Throughout history, many famous rubies have captured worldwide attention. Here are two historically significant rubies you should know about:
- Liberty Bell Ruby: This ruby, carved in the shape of the Liberty Bell to commemorate the United States Bicentennial, was discovered in East Africa in the 1950s and weighs 8,500 carats, making it the largest ruby ever mined. Unfortunately, it was stolen from a jewelry store in Delaware on November 1, 2011, and its whereabouts are currently unknown.
- Estrela de Fura: In 2022, Canadian company Fura Gems discovered a 55.22-carat ruby (originally weighing 101 carats) at their ruby mine in Mozambique, Africa. The gem, which was named “Estrela de Fura” in honor of the company, this ruby is the largest gem-grade ruby ever found. It set a record price at a Sotheby’s New York auction on June 8, 2023, selling for $34.8 million, breaking the previous record of $30.3 million set by the “Sunrise Ruby” at Sotheby’s Geneva in 2015.
The Symbolism and Meaning of the July Birthstone
The deep red color of July birthstone (rubies) is often associated with passion, love, and power. People believe that rubies bring good luck to their wearers and are often seen as symbols of enthusiasm and vitality. From a metaphysical perspective, rubies are said to enhance courage, improve focus, and protect against negative energy. They are also thought to boost confidence and unleash inner potential. Additionally, rubies are the gemstone for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversary, symbolizing enduring love.
What Colors Does the July Birthstone Come In?
The July ruby birthstone comes in shades of red, influenced by the element chromium (Cr) in its chemical composition (as a form of mineral corundum, Al₂O₃). The intensity of red varies depending on chromium content, gemstone cut, and lighting. Popular shades include:
- Pigeon Blood Red: The rarest and most precious ruby color, pure red with a hint of purple, making the ruby appear deeper. Primarily found in Myanmar.
- Vibrant Red: A very vivid and lively red with strong luster and saturation, brighter than vivid red.
- Vivid Red: A highly saturated, bright red, more vivid than standard red.
- Classic Red: Classic pure red without noticeable undertones, considered the standard ruby color.
- Orange/Pinkish Red: A mix of orange and pink tones, warm and soft.
- Hot Pink: A bright, eye-catching pink with strong saturation and vibrant color.
- Purplish Red: Some rubies have a purple undertone, adding a sense of mystery and uniqueness.
- Pinkish Red: Red with pink undertones, softer but still beautiful.
Note: The American gem industry has minimum saturation requirements for ruby colors, so internationally recognized pinkish-red rubies are classified as pink sapphires in the United States. (Both rubies and sapphires are corundum (Al2O3), classified by different trace elements.)
How to Choose Ruby Birthstone?
When selecting rubies, consider the following factors:
- Color: The hue and saturation of the color are crucial. The best rubies are pure, intense red.
- Cut: The quality of the cut affects the ruby’s brightness and luster. A well-cut ruby will reflect light evenly, enhancing its beauty.
- Clarity: Most rubies have some inclusions. The fewer the inclusions, the higher the value.
- Carat Weight: Larger rubies are rarer and therefore more valuable.
- Origin: Rubies from Myanmar are typically more valuable.
July Birthstone Jewelry Ideas
Ruby symbolizes love and passion, making them a favorite for engagements and anniversaries. From rings, bracelets, earrings, to necklaces, ruby jewelry shines in sterling silver, yellow gold, or platinum settings. Here are some popular options for special occasions.
Do you like these July birthstone jewelry pieces? Continue exploring more 👉 July birthstone rings!
Tips for Caring for the July Birthstone
Though rubies are very hard (Mohs hardness scale of 9), proper care can maintain their luster and beauty. Here are some care tips:
- Cleaning: Use mild soapy water and a soft brush to clean rubies, avoiding strong acids or alkaline cleaners.
- Storage: Store ruby jewelry separately to avoid scratches from other hard objects.
- Wearing: Avoid wearing ruby jewelry during strenuous activities or heavy labor to prevent damage.
- Maintenance: Regularly check and maintain your ruby jewelry.
July Birthstone Ruby–FAQs
July has only one official birthstone—the ruby. Its deep red color perfectly represents the passion, energy, and vitality associated with July.
Rubies reflect the warmth and energy of July. Historically, they have been valued for protection, courage, and enduring love, making them the perfect birthstone for the month.
Absolutely. Rubies are traditionally associated with the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, making them a meaningful birthstone gift for special occasions.
Although rubies and garnets may look similar at first glance, rubies typically have a deep or vivid red hue, while garnets tend to appear darker or more brownish-red. Check out our Ruby vs. Garnet guide for more details.
Yes. Ruby birthstone looks stunning alongside diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, citrine, peridot, garnet, or opal, adding vibrant color and elegance to jewelry pieces.
The most popular July birthstone jewelry pieces are ruby rings and ruby necklaces. Because rubies symbolize passion, love, and vitality, they are often chosen for engagement rings, anniversary gifts, and other special occasions.
Conclusion
As the birthstone for July, people love and admire rubies for their unique red color. Whether as a birthday gift or a personal collection, rubies are a meaningful and beautiful choice. By understanding the related knowledge of the July birthstone, you can better appreciate and cherish this precious gemstone.
Related Readings: January Birthstone, February Birthstone, March Birthstone, April Birthstone, May Birthstone, June Birthstone, August Birthstone, September Birthstone, October Birthstone, November Birthstone, December Birthstone