July Birthstone Rings

The July Birthstone Meaning

Ruby is the official birthstone of July. The name of the stone comes from the Latin word “ruber,” meaning red. Even though the July zodiac sign ‘Cancer’ is a water sign, July is a month of immense heat in many countries. So, it is only fitting that the July birthstone is an equally fiery stone.

July birthstone jewelry represents good fortune and prosperity, good health and invigoration, passion, and protection. They also stand for integrity and confidence. Historically, ruby jewelry has been prized for its brilliantly bold color and was a favorite among royalty.

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History

Gemstones like the ruby often have a long history shrouded in myth and legend. Rubies seem to have originated from, and were particularly prized in, Asian countries. As early as 200 BC, rubies were traded in China.

Many rubies have come from Burma, and Burmese rubies are still considered prized possessions today. Rubies were used as talismans in battle by ancient Burmese warriors, believing that it would make them invincible in battle.

In medieval times, rubies became very sought-after by the European royalty and nobility. They believed that rubies would guarantee good health, wealth, success, love, and wisdom. During this time, the ruby became known as the “stone of kings.”

In 1989, for the 50th anniversary of the famous film The Wizard of Oz, Harry Winston created a replica of the ruby slippers worn in the film. He did so using genuine rubies and gold. These sold for $3 million.

More recently, in 2015, at a Geneva auction, the Cartier Sunrise Ruby and Diamond ring sold for $30,335,698. A sizeable Burmese ruby, platinum setting, and several large diamonds account for this enormous price.

Variety of Rubies

Lab-Created vs. Natural

A lab-created ruby is precisely the same chemical composition as a natural ruby, but it is less expensive and unflawed. Generally, a natural ruby does contain flaws, and they need to be mined.

Colors

Ruby colors can range from light reddish pink to dark wine red. However, a ruby is at its most valuable when it has a medium to dark medium red color, which is known as a ‘pigeon blood’ ruby.

Ruby Birthstone Care

Rubies are bested only by diamonds and tying for second with blue sapphires on the Mohs Hardness Scale. They are some of the toughest gemstones in existence. It means that they are incredibly durable and perfect for wearing day-to-day.

However, despite their resistance to wear and tear, it is still best for each ruby jewelry piece to be stored separately. You can store your ruby birthstone jewelry in a velvet pouch or even in an entirely different, lined jewelry case.

Cleaning

To clean your ruby jewelry pieces, you can use warm water and mild soap. Still, it is best to double-check your cleaning methods with an experienced and qualified jewelry consultant, as water may result in tarnish or oxidization on certain metals. Your choice of cleaning materials and the regularity of your cleanings may also differ according to the precious metal accompanying your rubies.

For example, sterling silver is softer and more prone to tarnish than white gold. Therefore, it would require more regular cleanings with a gentler polish. On the other hand, Platinum is famous for never wearing down or requiring polish. Because of this, Platinum pieces have become the perfect jewelry in many people’s eyes.

Where To Shop Ruby Birthstone Jewelry

Whether you are looking for birthstone rings for July or similar items such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and other accessories- you are bound to find a jewelry piece that will match your unique tastes and styles at James Allen and Blue Nile. Their July birthstone jewelry is not only ethically sourced but also makes beautiful gifts for partners, friends, and family members. Search through their stock and discover your next favorite piece for your collection. There is no limit to the beauty you will find in each piece at the James Allen and Blue Nile online stores.

Ruby Jewelry FAQs

Ruby vs. Garnet

While these two stones are very similar in appearance, there are some differences that could help tell them apart.

Rubies are harder than Garnets and score a nine on the Mohs Hardness Scale (compared to the 6 – 6.5 of a Garnet). In more general terms, a ruby is stronger and more robust, making them less prone to scratching.

A natural ruby tends to contain flaws and inclusions, while garnet is known as “eye-clean,” with no visible inclusions that can be seen with the naked eye. Among the many benefits of shopping for garnets, they tend to be much less expensive and more commonly available.

How do I know if my ruby is real?

Both a lab-grown ruby and a natural ruby are considered genuine, as they have the same chemical composition. Fake rubies, on the other hand, do not. However, to tell the difference between real and fake, one would need to analyze their chemical composition using special equipment.

As a rule-of-thumb, it is best to buy your ruby jewelry from reputable and trustworthy stores to ensure that they are genuine rubies.

You could also search and shop online for reputable jewelry sellers. Many of the local stores may offer same-day delivery.

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