July Birthstone: Ruby

July is the month of summer and sunshine, and what better way to celebrate than with the July birthstone, the beautiful ruby. In this article, we will explore the history, properties, and uses of rubies, as well as some tips on how to care for and incorporate them into your jewelry collection.

Outline

  1. Introduction
  2. History of Rubies
  3. Properties of Rubies a. Color b. Hardness c. Clarity
  4. Uses of Rubies in Jewelry a. Rings b. Necklaces c. Bracelets
  5. Famous Rubies a. The Sunrise Ruby b. The DeLong Star Ruby c. The Rosser Reeves Star Ruby
  6. Caring for Ruby Jewelry
  7. Incorporating Rubies into Your Jewelry Collection
  8. Conclusion
  9. FAQs

History of Rubies

Rubies have been prized for their beauty and rarity for thousands of years. In ancient times, rubies were considered to be the most precious gemstones, even more valuable than diamonds. Rubies were often associated with royalty and were believed to have magical powers.

The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that rubies had the power to protect their wearers from harm, while in ancient India, rubies were believed to bring good fortune and success in love.

Properties of Rubies

Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, and are second only to diamonds in hardness. The most valuable rubies are those that are a deep, vibrant red, with a slight blue or purple undertone.

Rubies can also come in shades of pink, orange, and brown, but these are generally less valuable than the classic red ruby.

Uses of Rubies in Jewelry

Rubies are a popular gemstone for use in jewelry, particularly in rings, necklaces, and bracelets. They are often used in classic and elegant designs, and are a favorite of brides.

Rubies look stunning when paired with diamonds or other gemstones, such as sapphires or emeralds. They are often used in vintage-inspired jewelry, as well as in more modern and contemporary designs.

Famous Rubies

There are many famous rubies throughout history, including the Sunrise Ruby, the DeLong Star Ruby, and the Rosser Reeves Star Ruby.

The Sunrise Ruby is a 25.59 carat Burmese ruby that is considered to be one of the finest rubies in the world. It sold for $30 million at auction in 2015.

The DeLong Star Ruby is a 100.32 carat star ruby that is named for its former owner, Edith Haggin DeLong. It is one of the largest star rubies in the world and is valued at over $100 million.

The Rosser Reeves Star Ruby is a 138.7 carat star ruby that is named for its former owner, advertising executive Rosser Reeves. It is one of the largest and finest star rubies in the world.

Caring for Ruby Jewelry

To keep your ruby jewelry looking its best, it is important to store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing your rubies to heat or direct sunlight, as this can cause the color to fade.

It is also important to avoid exposing your rubies to harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. To clean your ruby jewelry, use a soft cloth or brush to gently remove any dirt or debris. You can also use a mild soap and water solution, but be sure to rinse the jewelry thoroughly and dry it completely before storing it.

Incorporating Rubies into Your Jewelry Collection

Rubies can be incorporated into a variety of jewelry styles, from classic to modern. If you prefer a traditional look, consider a simple ruby ring or stud earrings. For a more modern look, try a ruby-encrusted bangle or statement necklace.

Rubies can also be paired with other gemstones to create a unique and personalized look. They look beautiful when paired with diamonds, as well as with other colored gemstones such as sapphire or emerald.

Conclusion

Rubies are a timeless and elegant gemstone that make a beautiful addition to any jewelry collection. By following these tips on how to care for and incorporate rubies into your jewelry collection, you can enjoy these beautiful gemstones for years to come.

FAQs

  1. What is the meaning of rubies?
  • Rubies symbolize love, passion, and courage.
  1. Where are rubies found?
  • Rubies are found in several countries, including Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.
  1. What is the most valuable color of ruby?
  • The most valuable rubies are those that are a deep, vibrant red, with a slight blue or purple undertone.
  1. Can rubies be treated to enhance their color?
  • Yes, rubies can be treated with heat or chemicals to enhance their color, but natural rubies are generally more valuable than treated rubies.
  1. What is the best way to care for ruby jewelry?
  • To keep your ruby jewelry looking its best, store it in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing it to heat or direct sunlight. Clean it gently with a soft cloth or brush, and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
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