July Birthstone: Ruby

July’s birthstone is the ruby, a passionate gemstone with a fiery red hue. Celebrated by royalty and artisans alike, the ruby stands out as a symbol of love, passion, strength, and vitality.

What Colour Is the July Birthstone?

Rubies are famous for their deep red to purplish-red shades. A rubies red colour comes from its composition of chromium with aluminium oxide. However a ruby will be affected by the trace amounts of chromium and iron in their environment during formation giving a wide range of variants from pinkish red, purplish red and brownish red, meaning every natural ruby will have a unique and distinctive colour.

What Does July Birthstone Mean?

Traditionally, the ruby has been associated with love, courage and protection. Ancient cultures believed rubies could ward off misfortune and ignite romance. Today, gifting a ruby conveys deep affection and a promise of enduring loyalty - perfect for marking July birthdays for a loved one or for a meaningful milestone with your partner such as your 40th wedding anniversary which is known as the ruby anniversary.

How Are Rubies Formed?

Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum just like sapphire, formed deep within the Earth’s crust under extreme heat and pressure. However tiny amounts of chromium replace aluminium in the crystal lattice during formation, creating the gem’s signature red colour, this is the only difference that makes it differ from sapphire and many people refer to rubies as a red sapphire. 

Why Choose a Ruby Gemstone piece?

• Beautiful and timeless designs: Their rich colour pairs beautifully with both gold and platinum settings.
• Durability: Rubies are very durable, scoring 9/10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them ideal for daily wear and the majority of different jewellery settings.
• Symbolic Power: As a gift, a ruby expresses passion, confidence, and protection.

Our Favourite Ruby Pieces at Diamond Heaven

Explore our stunning selection of ruby jewellery, each piece is professionally crafted to showcase these vibrant gems.

 

3mm Red Ruby and Diamond Eternity Ring

 

Classic Marquise Ruby Solitaire Ring

 

Diamond Centre and Ruby Side Trilogy Ring

 

How to care for Ruby Jewellery

Keep your ruby jewellery in a soft pouch or jewellery box away from other jewellery pieces so that they do not touch or rub to avoid scratching. When it’s time for a clean, mix some warm soapy water, give the ruby a gentle brush with a soft toothbrush, rinse, and pat dry with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners or soaking for a long time, and always pop your ruby jewellery on last after you’ve sprayed perfume or smoothed on lotion. That way, it stays bright and sparkly for years to come and you do not get liquids and creams stuck in the setting.

Need help choosing the right Ruby? 

Visit one of our stores to try on a variety of styles in person, or explore our full ruby jewellery range online. Whether you’re after a classic ruby solitaire or a modern ruby-and-diamond design, our friendly experts are on hand to help you find the perfect match for your style and budget.