Get to Know July’s Birthstone: The Ruby
Known for its signature red hue and undeniable presence, the ruby has captivated royalty and nobility for centuries. As July's traditional birthstone, ruby jewelry is an extraordinary symbol of passion, confidence and prosperity.
Why July’s Birthstone?
Ruby is July’s birthstone because it’s said to capture the bold, ambitious and fearless personality of those born during the month of July. Rubies are members of the corundum family–the same mineral family as the sapphire. Its vivid red color comes from trace amounts of chromium found within the stone.
The History of the Ruby
The name ruby comes from the Latin word “ruber,” meaning red. Over centuries, societies have celebrated the ruby for its rarity, beauty and seemingly mystical nature. The Chinese traded them along the North Silk Road as far back as 200 B.C., while Burmese warriors believed rubies made them invincible during battle. In ancient India, rubies were called the “king of precious stones” as the ruby was thought to be a symbol of power and youthfulness.
Across many cultures, rubies have long represented the heart. Their fiery color naturally connects them to love, passion and deep emotional connection. In fact, it’s traditionally given to celebrate 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries.
The ruby continues to carry a sense of great significance to this day. Looking for a rare and brilliant gift? Give this beautiful gemstone as a lasting memento of love, life and spirit.
What Makes Rubies So Exceptional?
There are no doubt many beautiful gemstones, but few possess the magnetism of a ruby.
Celebrated for Their Vibrant Color
A ruby's most defining characteristic is its color. From pink-red to deep crimson, the finest stones display a rich, vibrant red to slightly purplish-red with a strong fluorescence quality. Some of the world's most coveted rubies exhibit a hue often described as "pigeon's blood", prized for its intensity and depth.
Noted for Durability
Rubies rank 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them one of the most durable natural gemstones. Second only to diamonds (10), they’re desirable for everyday wear. This birthstone’s toughness and resistance to breaking gives the ruby incredible longevity. It’s no wonder many choose to pass rubies down as cherished heirlooms from generation to generation.
Admired for Their Meaning
Both thoughtful and profound, ruby has long been associated with love, courage and vitality. The ruby is both striking and symbolic, making this July birthstone a heartfelt gift for life's most meaningful moments.
Treasured for Their Rarity
Fine rubies are among the rarest gemstones in the world. Particularly hard to find in larger carat weights, high-quality rubies are some of the most sought-after and valuable birthstones. They often command prices that rival or exceed those of diamonds.
How to Choose a Ruby
Here are some characteristics to consider when selecting this unmatched gem.
Prioritize Color
Color is the most important factor when evaluating a ruby. Look for stones with rich saturation and vibrant red tones. A ruby should feel alive, displaying depth and brilliance without appearing overly dark or washed out.
Consider Clarity
Unlike diamonds, inclusions are common and actually welcomed in natural rubies. Small inclusions can indicate a stone's natural origin. Natural rubies were initially found among weathered marble and ancient Buddhist temples in Myanmar. Today, July birthstones are mined in many places including Vietnam, Thailand, Mozambique, Sri Lanka and Madagascar. No matter its origin, focus on choosing a ruby that speaks to your soul.
Think About Your Style
Some people gravitate toward statement pieces that spotlight ruby's dramatic hue, while others prefer subtle pops of color as a perfecting detail. Whether ruby takes center stage or adds harmonizing color, ruby’s fiery nature offers endless opportunities for self-expression.
Styling Ruby Jewelry
Ruby's rich color makes it surprisingly versatile.
Tell Your Story with Ruby
Few gemstones feel as deeply personal as a ruby. Whether layered with other cherished pieces or featured in an heirloom-inspired design, ruby’s rich symbolism makes it a beautiful way to mark a milestone, a moment or a special bond.
The Initial Pendant paired with The Stackable Gemstone Charm Necklace
Complement Diamond Jewelry
Ruby pairs beautifully with diamonds. The contrast between brilliant white diamonds and ruby's rich red tones creates a refined, timeless look.
Whether perched alongside an engagement ring, wedding band or favorite diamond necklace, rubies add warmth and dimension to your jewelry collection.
The Jenna Ruby Band stacked with The Octavia Oval Ring
Let Ruby Steal the Spotlight
Sometimes simplicity creates the greatest impact.
A ruby pendant, ring or set of earrings paired with delicate gold accents allows the gemstone's natural beauty to shine. Yellow gold adds warmth, white gold creates contrast and rose gold offers a romantic softness to this July birthstone.
Many of our creations are available in multiple metals, allowing you to custom design a piece that reflects individuality and character.
The Jenna Ruby Band and The Lily Ruby Band stacked with gold accents
July Birthstone: When to Give This Gorgeous Gem
Think birthdays and beyond when gifting this exquisite stone.
Birthdays
Not many birthstones are as eye-catching as the ruby. If you give this centuries-old gemstone to someone born in July, they will no doubt treasure it for life.
Wedding Anniversaries
Ruby is traditionally associated with both the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, making it a meaningful way to celebrate your lasting love and unique story.
Graduations and Milestones
Whether commemorating a graduation, promotion or personal achievement, the ruby symbolizes confidence, strength and new beginnings.
Just Because
Sometimes giving something precious doesn’t need a special occasion. Ruby’s vibrant and saturated red color can honor life’s smallest moments or symbolize all types of relationships.
Taking Care of Ruby Jewelry
With its exceptional durability, rubies are relatively easy to protect and polish.
To maintain its splendor:
- Clean with warm water, mild soap and a soft brush.
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Store pieces separately to prevent scratching other gemstones and jewelry.
For more detail, visit our Jewelry Care Guide for expert cleaning advice and long-term maintenance tips.
Limited edition piece from the Gemstone Edit
Shop July’s Birthstone
Ruby's rich history, enduring symbolism and fiery color have made it one of the world's most beloved gemstones. In fact, rubies command the highest per-carat price of any colored stone on the market.
Honor life’s most important moments with this sought-after jewel. Explore our ruby designs inside our Gemstone Edit to discover this prized-possession.
Make the moment yours with non-traditional sapphires, emeralds, colored diamonds, and more.