If you are a July baby I have good news and bad news. The good news is that your July birthstone Ruby is one of the most stunning gemstones. The bad news is that because of this, it is also very expensive.
Rubies have captivated people for centuries with their vibrant red hues and mystical allure. As one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world, rubies hold a special place in the realm of gemology and metaphysics.
Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, with their striking red color caused by the presence of chromium in the crystal structure. The most desirable shade of ruby is deep red with a hint of blue, often referred to as “pigeon’s blood.” The gemstone’s color intensity and clarity are crucial factors in determining its value. Rubies are also known for their exceptional hardness, second only to diamonds on the Mohs scale, making them durable and suitable for everyday wear.
The name of the gemstone comes from the Latin rubinus, meaning red. It is also a popular name for girls, first becoming fashionable in the late Victorian era. As a girl’s name, Ruby is associated with wealth, health, passion, and success in love.
As with most gemstones, the value of rubies are influenced by several factors, including color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Fine quality rubies with a vivid red hue, excellent clarity, and minimal inclusions command the highest prices in the market. Origin also plays a significant role in determining a ruby’s value, with Burmese (Myanmar) rubies historically being the most prized due to their exceptional color and fluorescence (“fluorescence” is produced when a material or substance absorbs light of a given color and then gives off light of another color. The light that is given off, or emitted, is called fluorescence).
