July Birthstone: Ruby

Ruby is the modern birthstone for July, a designation that traces back to the official birthstone list adopted in 1912 by what's now known as Jewelers of America, and it's remained one of the most consistently recognized birthstone associations since. Its deep red color and long history in royal and religious symbolism have made it one of the most sought-after colored gemstones for well over a thousand years.

What Makes Ruby Red

Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, colored red by trace amounts of chromium trapped in its crystal structure as it forms. The same mineral, colored by different trace elements, produces sapphire in every other color. The most prized rubies show a vivid, slightly blue-leaning red, often called "pigeon's blood" in the trade, historically associated with stones from Myanmar though fine rubies come from several regions today.

Ruby's History and Symbolism

Ruby has carried associations with passion, protection, and vitality across numerous cultures throughout history. In Sanskrit, ruby was referred to as "ratnaraj," meaning king of precious stones, reflecting the value placed on it in ancient India. European royalty and warriors historically prized rubies as well, with some traditions holding that the stone offered protection in battle. As a July birthstone, it's often given as a symbol of deep affection, which fits naturally with its rich, warm color.

Ruby's Durability

Because ruby is a form of corundum, it ranks 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, second only to diamond among natural gemstones. That hardness makes it an excellent choice for jewellery meant to be worn daily, including rings, since it resists scratching far better than softer gemstones.

Choosing a Ruby

Color is the single most important factor in ruby quality, with the most valuable stones showing a pure, saturated red rather than a color leaning too far toward pink or brown. Clarity matters too, though rubies naturally contain more inclusions than diamonds, and a certain amount of internal characteristic is normal and expected rather than a flaw to avoid entirely. Seeing a ruby in person under consistent lighting remains the best way to judge whether its specific shade suits what you're looking for.