July birthstone
July birthstone: Ruby
Ruby is the stone of passion, protection, vitality and prosperity. Here's its color, history, care and what to look for when you buy.
- Color
- Pinkish red to deep "pigeon's blood" red
- Hardness
- 9 Mohs
- Meaning
- passion, protection, vitality and prosperity
- Found in
- Myanmar (Burma), Mozambique, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Madagascar
- Anniversary
- 15th & 40th
- Birth flower
- Larkspur and Water Lily
Shop July birthstone jewelry
July birthstone necklaceDainty ruby pendants, the #1 birth month giftShop on Amazon →Ruby ringsSolitaires, stackers & bezel settingsShop on Amazon →July birthstone braceletCharm & chain bracelets with tiny stonesShop on Amazon →Ruby stud earringsSimple studs that go with everythingShop on Amazon →As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Disclosure.
Ruby colors
Pinkish red to deep "pigeon's blood" red. Ruby is the red form of corundum, the same mineral as sapphire.
History & meaning
In Sanskrit, ruby is ratnaraj, "king of gems." Ancient Burmese warriors believed rubies made them invincible, and medieval Europeans thought they brought health and wisdom. Some famous "rubies" in royal crowns, like the Black Prince's Ruby, turned out to be red spinel.
Caring for ruby
Second only to diamond in hardness, so it is excellent for daily rings. Clean with warm soapy water.
What ruby costs
Fine rubies are among the most expensive gems. Lab-created rubies offer the same look for much less.
July birthstone jewelry
Necklaces, rings and bracelets in ruby, plus how to pick a setting that suits a 9-hardness stone.
Shop July jewelry ideasQuestions, answered
What is the July birthstone?
The July birthstone is Ruby.
What color is the July birthstone?
Pinkish red to deep "pigeon's blood" red. Ruby is the red form of corundum, the same mineral as sapphire.
What does ruby mean?
Ruby symbolizes passion, protection, vitality and prosperity.
Is ruby good for everyday rings?
Ruby rates 9 on the Mohs hardness scale. Second only to diamond in hardness, so it is excellent for daily rings. Clean with warm soapy water.
How much does ruby cost?
Fine rubies are among the most expensive gems. Lab-created rubies offer the same look for much less.
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