The Ruby: July Birthstone
History, legend and gemstone lore
The name ruby
is derived from the latin word
for red. Fine quality rubies have
always been extremely rare and
as such have been highly prized
by royalty. To this day rubies
are included in the insignias
of many royal families. India
has been the historical source
of rubies and ruby folklore, but
more recently rubies have been
found in other parts of Asia and
Africa.
Source, Composition
and Jewelry Variety
Rubies are
the red variety of the mineral
Corundum. All other colors of
Corundum are considered to be
Sapphires. Corundum is the second
hardest mineral next to the diamond.
Color is the most important quality
of a fine ruby and, like emeralds,
small inclusions do not diminish
their value. Rubies with no inclusions
are often suspected to be synthetic.
Some rubies exhibit a light effect
called Asterism when highly polished
and exhibit a beautiful six ray
star on their surface. Fine star
rubies are rare and valuable.
Some of the finest rubies come
from Myanmar (Burma), while other
fine jewelry specimens are mined
in Africa, Sri Lanka, Thailand
and Vietnam.
Buying Ruby
Jewelry
Most jewelers
will carry a modest selection
of ruby jewelry. Prices can vary
widely but typical jewelers stock
ranges from about one hundred
to the low thousands. You can
find a wide selection of Ruby
jewelry and other gemstone jewelry
from reputable jewelers and online
jewelry stores.
Be sure to Compare Jewelry
Stores
For rare varieties
and unique gemstone jewelry it
may be best to find a specialty
custom jeweler who can source
fine gems and customize your jewelry. We
can help. You may also wish to try buying ruby gemstone jewelry (Sponsor Link) from a reputable online store which carries a variety of birthstone and gemstone jewelry.
