Birthstone for July - Ruby
The stunning ruby which was thought to have originated in India over two thousand years ago was lauded for its uncommon beauty. It was considered the Lord of Gems by ancient Hindus, a rare and valuable gemstone. The oldest recorded Indic language of the Vedas of Hinduism, Sanskrit, alludes to this fine jewel. The Sanskrit word for ruby is ratnaraj which means King of the gemstones. It was admired and revered by monarchies, when a precious ruby was found dignitaries were sent by their royal leader to give it an official welcome. They believed the stone would darken at the signs of imminent danger and return to its primary hue when the peril was negated.
The rubies protective powers were regarded as more intense when in a jewelry setting and worn on a persons left side. Royalty chose these rich stones for their insignias, as a defense against evil, still a standard in many of their households. The Crown Jewels of England are adorned with the Edwardes Ruby which weighs 167 carats. To put this in perspective a ¾ carat ruby is considered of matchless quality and an expensive gem. Two of the Crown jewels, the Black Ruby and Timur Ruby were actually spinels. In the early 19th century it was discovered the rubies crystalline properties which come from the mineral corundum were shared by the sapphire. Only the red corundum is referred to as a ruby, all other stones with this property are sapphires. Previously, red garnets or spinels were thought of as rubies.
The Burmese ruby is considered of the highest distinction, a vivid, red spectrum with blue undertones. It was believed to have held an eternal inner flame. The Siamese from Thailand was recognized for its deep, red silkiness. Vietnamese rubies had a purple cast synonymous with nobility. Other mined sources for this aesthetically charming, strong and durable gemstone are Sri Lanka , Kenya , Tanzania , Cambodia and Afghanistan . As a customary process rubies were heated to improve their visual attributes and depth of color. A unique variety which benefited from this process and the cabochon cut is the Star Ruby. A black, yellow or reddish-brown rutile mineral inclusion dancing through the ruby, causing an asterism, a cluster of six rays, the star effect.
The striking, intense red ruby which represents the heart chakra, balances healing, harmonious relationships, spirituality, devotion and passion. It symbolizes fire and blood representative of compassion, enthusiasm and ardent love.
The perfect present to give to your significant other, the dazzling, vivacious ruby depicting true happiness and unbridled adoration.
Lusterforever.com has two lovely gift ideas on sale for July’s birthstone, the ruby. A vintage ring with a 1 carat oval ruby snuggled within two circles of diamonds in 14K white and yellow gold bands scintillating with a flaming radiance. To encircle her neck and lie near her heart with contentment and a special, vibrant glow, a matching pendant with 48 loose diamonds coupled within the circles and a white gold chain. Exquisite jewelry to enchant.
