Birthstone Spotlight: The King of All Gems
Hey there! It’s been a while since our last blog post, but we’re back now and here to tell you all about the birthstone of this month - the ruby.
A birthstone is a gemstone that is associated with a month or astrological sign. Each unique stone is believed to hold specific “powers” that come into effect during their assigned months. The ruby, one of the five original cardinal gems, is the birthstone of July.
The name “ruby” comes from the Latin word ruber meaning red, but also translates to the Sanskrit ratnaraj, giving the ruby its nickname as the king of all gems and precious stones. In the past, people believed that the ruby held the ability to bestow good fortune upon its owners, which is why it is to no surprise that many great rulers were proud owners of rubies. Scaling a 9.00 on the Mohs scale, rubies are the hardest and most durable gemstone, coming second only to diamonds.
Rubies are distinguished for their deep red color, and are most widely known for seemingly glowing “like a fire” from within. Despite this, rubies do typically come in a variety of other secondary hues, such as purple or pink. Rubies get their color from the element Chromium, which also plays a part in the fluorescence of the gemstone. The presence of the Chromium, however, also causes cracks and fissures, which is why any ruby that can grow large enough to crystallize into a fine quality gem is extremely valuable.
Because of the variations of shades that rubies are available in, the brightest and most valuable color of ruby is known as the Burmese ruby. This type of ruby’s color is referred to as “pigeon’s blood” red, which is a rich blood red with a hint of blue.
A ruby’s intense red glow correlates with the many symbolisms associated with a ruby: love, passion, courage, emotion, and prosperity, and is believed to bring success in wealth, love, and battle.
Rubies are considered the perfect symbol of dynamic and powerful feelings, especially love. Jewelry pieces that contain a ruby typically represent the passion and love between two individuals. Rubies were also believed to have healing properties, both physical and mental.
Aside from being used in jewelry, rubies are also commonly used in the making of lasers due to its durability and ability to concentrate light to a very high intensity. This is why traditional lasers are so heavily associated with the color red.
Hopefully when you meet a July baby, you can tell them all about the things you learned on this post. We will see you soon!
XOXO,
Team Carys
