The birthstone for July is the magnificent ruby. The ruby’s deep red hue has been historically associated with passion, protection, and prosperity. Known as the “king of precious stones,” the ruby has captivated hearts for centuries with its fiery brilliance and timeless allure.
A Royal Legacy of Beauty
Rubies have been highly valued since ancient times, with records of trade along the North Silk Road in China as early as 200 B.C. These gems were often associated with nobility and worn by European royalty for protection and to signify
wealth and power.
Ancient warriors in Burma and China adorned their armour with rubies, believing the stones would protect them in battle. Rubies were also thought to provide invincibility when inserted into their flesh.
(Ref: 32264 for price and availability.)
The Meaning and Symbolism of Ruby
The name ruby derives from the Latin word ruber, meaning “red.” In Sanskrit, it’s called “ratnaraj,” or king of precious stones. Historically, rubies have been symbols of love, commitment, and protection against misfortune and illness.
The ruby is the traditional gift for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, symbolising enduring passion and love. Ruby has been called the most precious of the 12 stones created by God.
Fun fact: The famous ruby slippers worn by Dorothy in “The Wizard of Oz” are an iconic piece of film history. These slippers, although not made from real rubies, symbolise the magical and protective qualities attributed to the gem.
Ruby Jewellery to Treasure
At Solid Gold Diamonds, we celebrate this extraordinary gemstone through our collection of handcrafted ruby jewellery – each piece designed to showcase its beauty and meaning.
- 1.94ct Ruby with Marquise and Pear Ornate Halo Diamond Ring
A radiant ruby surrounded by marquise and pear-shaped diamonds.
(Ref: 32264 – enquire in store for price and availability) - Art Deco–Inspired Ruby and Diamond Pendant
A vintage-inspired design capturing the glamour of the Art Deco era.
Explore our full Ruby Jewellery Collection and Bespoke Ruby Engagement Rings — crafted in Australia and available in Perth and Adelaide showrooms.
Origins of the Ruby
In 2022, Fura Gems discovered a remarkable 101-carat ruby in Mozambique, aptly named the Estrela de Fura (“Star of Fura”) — one of the largest ever found.
Rubies and sapphires belong to the mineral family corundum, one of the hardest minerals on Earth. Only the red variety of corundum crystal is a ruby.
Mozambique is an important new source for the July birthstone. This African nation is home to the prolific mines at Montepuez. Rubies found there have been compared to the famed gems of Mogok.
For many years in the late 1900s, the ruby deposits along the border between Thailand and Cambodia were the major source of rubies in the marketplace. Other important producers of the July birthstone include Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Tanzania and Madagascar.
