Introduction: Ruby – The Royal Gem of Passion & Power
Ruby is rightfully called the “King of Precious Stones” for its vibrant red color and unmatched brilliance. Moreover, as the birthstone of July, it symbolizes passion, courage, and vitality. In fact, from royal crowns to sacred rituals, this gemstone has ruled hearts and cultures for centuries. Therefore, in this blog, we’ll uncover the magic, history, benefits, and global origins of Ruby — the true royal stone of July.”
Discription of july birthstone
Ruby is a pinkish-red-to-blood-red-colored gemstone, a variety of the mineral corundum (aluminium oxide). Ruby is one of the most popular traditional jewelry gems and is very durable. Since gemologists refer to all other varieties of gem-quality corundum as sapphires, they sometimes refer to rubies as “red sapphires
Ruby is one of the traditional cardinal gems; namely, alongside amethyst, sapphire, emerald, and diamond. Furthermore, the word ruby comes from ruber, which is Latin for red. The color of a ruby is due to the presence of chromium.
Some gemstones that are popularly or historically called rubies, such as the Black Prince’s Ruby in the British Imperial State Crown, are actually spinels. These were once known as “Balas rubies”.
Experts determine a ruby’s quality based on its color, cut, and clarity—factors that, along with carat weight, influence its overall value.. The brightest and most valuable shade of red, called blood-red or pigeon blood, commands a large premium over other rubies of similar quality. Furthermore, after evaluating color, gemologists assess clarity. In addition, like diamonds, clearer rubies command higher prices. However, if a ruby lacks any needle-like rutile inclusions, it may suggest the stone has undergone treatment.Ruby is the traditional birthstone for July and is usually pinker than garnet, although some rhodolite garnets have a similar pinkish hue to most rubies. The world’s most valuable ruby to be sold at auction is the Estrela de Fura, which sold for US$34.8 million.
our Ruby collection
A Glimpse into History
Rubies have fascinated civilizations for thousands of years. Ancient cultures like those in India, Burma (Myanmar), and Sri Lanka treasured Rubies as stones of nobility and divine protection. In Sanskrit, Ruby is called “Ratnaraj”, meaning King of Precious Stones. Burmese warriors once believed rubies would make them invincible in battle, even embedding them under their skin for protection.
During the Middle Ages, Rubies adorned crowns and royal insignias, symbolizing power and divine favor. In ancient China, rubies were buried beneath foundations to bring prosperity.
Ruby Composition & Properties
Beyond its legendary beauty, Ruby is a scientifically fascinating gemstone. It is a variety of the mineral corundum, with a chemical composition of Aluminum Oxide (Al₂O₃). The presence of chromium (Cr) gives Ruby its rich red color — the more chromium, the deeper the hue.
Here are the key physical and chemical properties of Ruby:
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Mineral Group | Corundum |
| Chemical Formula | Al₂O₃ (Aluminum Oxide) |
| Color | Red to purplish-red (due to Chromium) |
| Crystal System | Trigonal (Hexagonal) |
| Hardness | 9 on the Mohs scale (very durable) |
| Specific Gravity | 3.97 – 4.05 |
| Refractive Index | 1.762 – 1.770 |
| Luster | Vitreous (glass-like shine) |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
Symbolism & Meaning
Ruby is more than just a pretty gem. It carries deep symbolism, especially for those born in July:
- Love & Passion: Ruby resonates with the heart and blood, symbolizing intense love and passion.
- Courage & Protection: Often worn for safety and strength, especially in dangerous situations.
- Vitality & Confidence: Believed to ignite inner fire, boost energy, and enhance motivation.
Astrological Benefits of Ruby
According to Vedic astrology, Ruby is associated with the Sun (Surya) — the planet of authority, leadership, and self-confidence.
Wearing Ruby may bring:
- Enhanced willpower and charisma
- Improvement in health, particularly blood circulation and heart function
- Success in leadership roles and public life
- Better mental clarity and emotional stability
Zodiac signs that benefit most:
- Leo (♌) – Ruby is the birthstone for Leos and amplifies their natural traits.
- Also recommended for Sagittarius and Aries under astrological guidance.
Healing Properties
Ruby is revered in crystal healing for its physical and emotional effects:
- Physical: Supports heart health, improves blood flow, and boosts vitality.
- Emotional: Balances emotions, relieves anxiety, and enhances self-love.
- Spiritual: Awakens the base (root) chakra and promotes grounding energy.
Occurrence of Royal stone-July birthstone
Rubies are mined in several parts of the world, with each location producing stones of unique quality, color, and clarity:
Myanmar (Burma): The most legendary source of rubies, especially the deep red “Pigeon Blood” rubies from the Mogok Valley, considered the finest in the world.
Thailand: Known for producing darker, brownish-red rubies. A major cutting and trading center as well.
Sri Lanka: Offers lighter “pinkish-red” rubies, often called Ceylon Rubies, known for their brilliance and size.
Madagascar: A more recent source producing high-quality rubies with good transparency.
Tanzania (Winza & Longido): Famous for vibrant red rubies, often with blue or purple undertones.
Mozambique: Now one of the largest ruby producers globally, offering vivid red stones similar to Burmese rubies.
Afghanistan: Produces natural rubies, especially from the Badakhshan region.
Pakistan:Miners in Pakistan primarily extract rubies from the Hunza Valley (Gilgit-Baltistan) and Azad Kashmir. Although their color and clarity may vary, these rubies offer excellent metaphysical properties and attract high value for their natural beauty
Treatments, Synthetics & Imitations of Ruby-July birthstone
Understanding how rubies are enhanced or replicated is essential for any buyer or enthusiast. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Treatments
Gem dealers often apply heat treatment to rubies to improve their color and clarity. This common and accepted method removes internal impurities and intensifies the red hue without affecting durability.
In lower-quality rubies, some sellers also use glass filling or fracture filling, where they inject lead glass into surface cracks to enhance appearance. While this improves the look, it lowers the stone’s value and makes it less durable.
2. Synthetics
Lab technicians create synthetic rubies using techniques like flame fusion or hydrothermal growth. These man-made rubies match the chemical and physical properties of natural ones. Despite their flawless appearance, synthetic rubies lack natural origin and usually cost less. Experts must perform gemological tests to distinguish high-quality synthetics from genuine rubies.
3. Imitations
Manufacturers produce imitation rubies using cheaper materials such as red spinel, garnet, or colored glass. Although these stones may resemble rubies in appearance, they do not share the same composition, durability, or astrological properties. Jewelers typically sell these as costume or decorative pieces.
Conclusion: A Gem of Strength and Passion
Whether you wear it for its bold beauty or its powerful symbolism, Ruby is a gemstone that inspires strength, love, and success. As the birthstone of July, it’s a perfect gift for those born in this fiery month — or anyone seeking passion and purpose.