July's Birthstone the Ruby

Ruby is red variety of the mineral corundum. Its history as a gemstone goes back to Bible times. Rubies are found at many locations as Kenya, Viet Nam, Greenland and the US.

July’s birthstone ruby has a long history as a gemstone, reaching back to Bible times. The book of Proverbs says, "A virtuous wife’s worth is far above rubies". Ancient Hindu texts make reference to the importance of rubies. The word ruby is from the Latin "ruber" and means red. It is the red variety of the mineral corundum, which has number nine scale of hardness on the Mohs. All other corundum is referred to as sapphire. The color of a ruby can range from orange-red to purple-red.

The mining of rubies dates back at least 2500 years. Today are found in Kenya, Tanzania, Madagascar, Viet Nam, Nepal, Pakistan, Myanmar (Burma), Greenland, and in the US, Montana, North Carolina and South Carolina. Synthetic rubies have been used as lasers since 1960.

Mystical properties associated with ruby include its use as a amulet against evil. Indian medical literature from the thirteenth century describes it as a cure for troubles in digestion. Other cultures have attributed to it health and wealth, peace and prosperity. Some rubies which have become famous because of their size or beauty include the Mogok Ruby which was sold to the Sultan of Brunei for $360,000,000, the Anne of Brittany Ruby which is housed in the Louvre, and the 137 carat star ruby Rosser Reeves which is displayed at the Smithsonian.

Set in gold, rubies make unquestionably elegant and attractive rings, pendants and earrings.