July’s birthstone is ruby, known as the “King of Gems” for its gloriously rich red color. It has been used to symbolize royalty and strength since antiquity.
One of the most valuable gems in the world in its finest qualities, ruby can command the highest price-per-carat of any colored stone. The most desirable rubies are a pure, saturated red, and come from the Mogok region of Myanmar. These particular gems are often referred to in the trade as “pigeon’s blood” for their color.
Ruby is the red variety of the mineral corundum, which actually comes in many colors. The blue variety is sapphire, and other colors are known as fancy sapphire. Red corundum gets its color from the mineral chromium, which can actually fluoresce in sunlight causing a fine ruby to appear to glow.
One of the hardest and toughest gems after diamond, ruby is an excellent choice for a daily wear jewelry item such as an engagement ring. Rubies can withstand quite a lot of heat and pressure; you never have to worry about putting a ruby in an ultrasonic cleaner!
If ruby is your gem of choice, don’t worry – you don’t have to break the bank to get a beautiful gem. We have options for every budget!
