Ruby - July's Fiery Red Birthstone

Posted on Jul 01, 2022 By Zachary Rawlings

Ruby is July’s birthstone and is one of the most coveted gemstones used in fine jewelry. It is renowned for its stunning fluorescent red color, and few gemstones are as eye-catching. This blog post covers all the basics you’ll need to know when purchasing and owning this fiery red gemstone.

Background and History

The name ruby comes from the Latin word for red, “rubeus.” In ancient Sanskrit it is translated to "ratnaraj" meaning “king of precious stones” It was named so because of its beauty and mystical powers.

Ruby is the red variety of the mineral corundum. All other colors of the mineral corundum are considered sapphires, making a ruby’s color and fluorescence its primary distinguishing factor. Throughout history, other red gemstones have been mistaken for it, including spinel, tourmaline, and garnet.

Metaphysical Properties

Red is the color of many of our most intense emotions including, anger, love, desire, passion, romance, warmth, and power. Part of what gives red its power is that red is a primary color and is one of the most visible colors on the color spectrum.

Red can make a person feel powerful, dominant and boost self-esteem. Traditionally, ruby is symbolic of passion, protection, and prosperity.

Ruby Jewelry

Ruby is the second hardest gemstone, and diamonds are the only naturally occurring gemstone that is harder. It measures a 9 on the Mohs Hardness scale, and its exceptional hardness makes it an ideal gemstone in all settings.

Color is the most important factor to consider when shopping for ruby gemstones, and the finest gems are pure, vibrant red to slightly purplish red. The hint of purple found in a fine specimen is called “pigeons blood” in the industry.

When shopping for ruby jewelry, remember that they can often command a higher price per carat than diamonds. Large gemstones are very rare, and you can expect the price to increase rapidly for larger-sized stones.

Wrap Up

Rubies are stunning, beautiful, and remarkable gemstones. Park City Jewelers has a beautiful collection of custom, one-of-a-kind pieces that feature ruby. Shop in-store or online, and you’ll surely find a few pieces you'll love.

One of our award-winning jewelry artisans is also ready to work with you to create a custom piece of jewelry you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Shop Our Collection of Ruby Jewelry >>