What is July Birthstone?

Birthstones are special gemstones assigned according to the month of birth, each representing a unique symbol of luck and protection. July falls in the heart of summer, a time when life thrives in full abundance. July's birthstone is the ruby, famously crowned as the "King of Gemstones". The ruby birthstone's most striking feature is its vivid red color, reminiscent of the blazing midday summer sun—fiery and captivating. It stands as a symbol of passion, vitality, and eternal love.

The July birthstone—ruby, not only wins hearts with its intense, pure red hue but also carries a rich history, cultural significance, and spiritual meaning. This guide will walk you through the history, physical properties, colors, symbolic meanings, as well as tips on buying the perfect July birthstone jewelry, giving you a well-rounded understanding of this radiant treasure.

July Birthstone

The birthstone for July is the ruby, deriving its name from the Latin word "ruber", which means "red". It is a precious gemstone formed from aluminum oxide under intense heat and pressure and belongs to the corundum family. While aluminum oxide itself is colorless, the presence of trace amounts of chromium in the crystal structure gives the ruby stone its legendary red color. The chromium's concentration determines the depth and saturation of the red, explaining why rubies from different origins display various shades. In gemology, only red corundum is called ruby; other colors of corundum are known as sapphires.

Red is the hallmark feature of the July birthstone. Ruby birthstones vary greatly in value depending on color intensity, clarity, and cut. The most prized rubies boast the richest, purest red known as "Pigeon Blood", considered the pinnacle of rubies, primarily mined in Myanmar. Besides its color, some ruby stones display a star effect where a six-rayed star appears on the surface under certain lighting. These are called star rubies and are especially rare and valuable.

In nature, flawless ruby birthstones are exceptionally rare. Most contain various inclusions like silk-like fibers, crystal inclusions, or healed fractures. While these inclusions may slightly impact the gem's purity, they serve as important markers to authenticate the ruby's origin and verify its genuineness.

Why is Ruby the Birthstone for July?

The tradition of ruby as the birthstone for July dates back to ancient civilizations. This custom arises from a blend of various cultures and religious beliefs. In ancient times, people believed that gemstones held mystical powers that could influence the wearer's luck and health.

From an astrological perspective, the ruby birthstone is closely linked to the energy of the sun. July falls during the hottest part of summer, a time when the sun's power is at its peak. The vibrant red color of the ruby gemstone symbolizes vitality, passion, and strength—qualities that perfectly match the spirit of July.

Additionally, people born in July, such as those under the zodiac sign Cancer, are thought to possess passionate, brave, and lively personalities. The ruby gemstone reflects these traits well, making it also the birthstone for Cancer. It embodies Cancer’s deep emotions and protective nature. Its rarity and preciousness also mirror the rich and profound inner world of those born under this sign.

What Color is the July Birthstone?

The most striking feature of the July birthstone --- ruby, is its vivid red color, which ranges from light pinkish-red to deep red. Ideally, a ruby birthstone should have a pure red color without any obvious brown, orange, or purple tones.

The most valuable color for a July birthstone is called "Pigeon Blood", a pure, intense red with a slight hint of purple—resembling the fresh blood of a pigeon. The saturation and purity of the color directly impact the ruby birthstone’s value. The purer and more saturated the red, the higher the worth. Rubies of this quality mainly come from Myanmar’s Mogok region and are considered the finest and most sought-after.

Deep red ruby birthstones have a rich but slightly muted red shade. This color is attractive, but if it becomes too dark, the stone’s brilliance and sparkle may lessen.

Pink or pinkish-red ruby birthstones, sometimes called Pink Sapphires, have a noticeable pink tint. Though they do not qualify as "deep red", their soft color makes them popular with those who prefer a gentler style.

Orange-red or reddish-orange ruby birthstones have a clear orange tone and a bright, lively color. These are often found in Sri Lanka or Africa.

Ruby stones with a slight purple tone lean toward reddish-purple. While beautiful, they may be valued a bit less than pure red rubies. Ruby gemstones with brownish hues are generally considered murky in color, which can reduce both their appeal and value.

Where to Find July Birthstones?

The distribution of July's birthstone is relatively concentrated, mainly across several countries in Asia. Each location, due to its unique geological conditions, produces ruby birthstones with distinctive features in terms of color, clarity, and inclusion characteristics.

Myanmar is the most famous source of July birthstone rubies in the world, especially the Mogok region. Ruby birthstones from here are renowned for their pure "pigeon blood" color. The formation of Myanmar ruby stones is closely linked to the area's unique geological environment, where metamorphic rocks under high temperature and pressure create the ideal conditions for ruby formation. These ruby gemstones often exhibit a strong fluorescence, glowing a vivid red under ultraviolet light—one of the key features used to identify them. Myanmar rubies usually offer high transparency and rich saturation, making them the most sought-after variety among collectors and jewelers.

Thailand was once a major producer of July birthstone rubies, primarily in the Chanthaburi province. Thai ruby stones typically have a deeper color, leaning towards dark red or reddish-purple, with relatively high iron content. Although Thailand's ruby mines have largely been depleted, the country remains a crucial hub for ruby trading and processing, especially Bangkok, which attracts ruby merchants and craftsmen from around the world.

Sri Lanka is another important source for July birthstone rubies, producing a wide range of colors from light pink to deep red. Sri Lankan rubies are known for their relatively high clarity and fewer inclusions, though their color saturation usually isn't as intense as that of Myanmar rubies. These are often referred to as "Ceylon Rubies" and enjoy a strong reputation in the international market. The Ratnapura region is the country's main gem-producing area, where locals have a long tradition of gemstone mining and crafting.

In recent years, Mozambique has gained attention as an emerging source of July birthstone rubies. The discovery of ruby stones there has brought new energy to the global ruby market. Mozambican ruby birthstones are vivid in color and of excellent quality, with some even comparable to those from Myanmar. The influx of Mozambican rubies has also helped stabilize prices, offering more options for consumers.

Madagascar is another notable producer of July birthstone rubies. The quality of rubies there varies, but some high-quality stones are found. Madagascar rubies are characterized by abundant inclusions, which can help determine their origin.

Additionally, countries like Cambodia, Vietnam, Afghanistan, and Tanzania also produce ruby birthstones, though in smaller quantities. These sources contribute valuable diversity to the global ruby market.

The History of the July Birthstone

The July birthstone holds an important place in human history, its charm crossing the boundaries of time and culture. In ancient Sanskrit, the ruby was called "ratnaraj", meaning "king of gems", a title still widely used today. Ancient Indians believed rubies contained an inner flame that never extinguished, protecting the wearer from evil forces. Because of this, rulers in ancient India often wore ruby gemstones to display their power and status.

In ancient Greek and Roman cultures, rubies were seen as symbols of Mars, the god of war. Warriors believed wearing ruby gemstones gave them courage and strength on the battlefield. They also thought that ruby stones could foresee danger—the gem's color would darken as danger approached. Roman scholar Pliny documented the qualities of rubies in his work Natural History and introduced a new perspective on these gems in his era.

In medieval Europe, ruby gemstones were believed to have healing powers, especially for blood-related illnesses. Nobles regarded rubies as symbols of power and status, adorning many crowns and scepters with these precious stones to protect their health and authority.

In ancient Chinese culture, red has always symbolized good fortune and wealth, and rubies carried special meaning as well. Known as "red jade" or "red crystal" in ancient China, ruby gemstones were believed to bring luck and prosperity. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the royal family had a particular fondness for rubies, using them extensively in palace jewelry.

Myanmar, one of the world's most important sources of July birthstones, holds a deep cultural reverence for rubies. Locals believe ruby gemstones are the congealed blood of the earth and possess powerful protective abilities. They even sew small ruby fragments under their skin, believing this makes them invulnerable to blades and weapons. Though mysterious, this tradition highlights the sacred status rubies hold in their culture.

July Birthstone Meaning

As the birthstone for July, the ruby carries rich symbolic meanings and positive associations across different cultures and traditions.

What Does the July Birthstone Symbolize?

Love and passion are the primary symbols of the July birthstone. The ruby is not only the birthstone for July but also the traditional gem gift for 15th and 40th anniversaries. Its vibrant red color, like burning flames, represents intense love and undying passion. In Western culture, rubies are considered some of the most romantic gems, often used in engagement rings and wedding rings. Legend says wearing a ruby ring can strengthen the bond between spouses, protect their love from outside interference, and keep the flame of love burning forever.

Courage and strength form another key symbolism of the July birthstone. Ancient warriors believed rubies could grant fearless courage and great power in battle. This belief existed not only in European cultures but also across many Asian civilizations. Modern psychology acknowledges that the color red can indeed boost motivation and confidence, so the July birthstone is also seen as a lucky stone that enhances personal charm and leadership.

Wisdom and authority are equally qualities represented by the July birthstone. Historically, rubies were often set in crowns and scepters, symbolizing a ruler's wisdom and power. People believed rubies aided wearers in making wise decisions and staying clear-headed in complex situations. Even in today's business world, many successful individuals choose ruby birthstones, hoping to gain business acumen and decisiveness.

July Birthstone Healing Meaning

Health and vitality are important meanings associated with the July birthstone. Traditional medicine holds that ruby stones promote blood circulation and strengthen the body. While these claims lack scientific proof, rubies do provide positive psychological cues. Red itself symbolizes life force, and wearing a ruby can make a person feel energetic and healthy.

In India's traditional Ayurvedic medicine, ruby birthstones are believed to balance the body's energy centers, especially the heart chakra. Devotees think ruby birthstones help overcome inner fears and anxiety while boosting confidence and self-esteem. In Chinese culture, red has always been a color of good luck, so the July birthstone is also thought to bring fortune and wealth.

Modern crystal therapy also attributes special energy properties to ruby birthstones. Supporters claim rubies can spark creativity, improve work efficiency, and help achieve personal goals. Although these ideas are not scientifically verified, as a psychological and spiritual support, rubies can indeed have a positive mental effect on those who wear them.

How to Evaluate the Quality of July Birthstones?

When evaluating the quality of ruby birthstones for July, the main criteria are color, clarity, cut, and carat weight—commonly known as the "4Cs". These factors interact with each other and together determine the value and beauty of a ruby birthstone.

1. Color

Color is the most important factor in assessing a July birthstone, usually accounting for more than 60% of its total value. The ideal ruby color is a pure red without obvious brown, orange, or purple hues. Color evaluation involves three dimensions: hue, saturation, and brightness. 

Hue refers to the basic color type; for ruby birthstones, the best hues range from pure red to red with slight purple tones. Saturation means the purity and intensity of the color—highly saturated rubies appear more vivid and striking. Brightness relates to how light or dark the color is; too dark or too light can diminish the ruby's appeal.

2. Clarity

Clarity refers to the degree of internal and surface flaws in the July birthstone. Because rubies form through complex natural processes, flawless rubies are extremely rare. Common inclusions include silk-like fibers, healed fractures, and crystal inclusions. While these inclusions can affect transparency, minor inclusions do not significantly lower a ruby birthstone's value, especially if they don't detract from the stone's overall beauty.

3. Cut

Cut quality greatly influences the ruby birthstone's sparkle and overall appearance. A well-cut ruby birthstone maximizes color and brilliance, while a poor cut can cause light leakage or uneven color. Ruby cuts come in various shapes, such as oval, round, cushion, and emerald cuts. When evaluating cut, consider the harmony of proportions, polishing quality, and symmetry.

4. Carat Weight

Carat weight is an important factor in the value of July birthstones. Large, high-quality ruby gems are extremely rare, causing prices to rise sharply with size. Generally, rubies over 1 carat are considered rare stones, while those above 3 carats are exceptionally valuable. It's important to note that ruby value isn't solely determined by weight; color and clarity are equally critical.

Beyond the traditional 4Cs, whether a ruby birthstone has undergone heat treatment also affects its value. Heat treatment is a common method to enhance color and clarity. Although widely accepted in the gem trade, untreated natural ruby gemstones are more valuable. Therefore, understanding a ruby's treatment status is crucial when making a purchase.

How to Buy July Birthstone Jewelry?

Buying July birthstone jewelry is a decision that requires some expertise and experience. For everyday buyers, knowing a few basic principles and tips can help you make wise choices in a complex market.

1. Set a Reasonable Budget

First, establish a realistic budget. July birthstone jewelry prices range widely—from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars or more. The price depends mainly on ruby quality, size, origin, and rarity. Beginners should start by setting a budget and then look for the best value options within that range.

2. Choose a Trustworthy Jeweler

Selecting a reputable dealer is key to ensuring quality. It's best to buy from well-known jewelry stores (such as LUO Jewelry), auction houses, or professional gemstone dealers. LUO Jewelry provides authoritative certificates of authenticity and lifetime warranty service. Avoid purchasing valuable rubies from tourist spots or unfamiliar online shops to reduce the risk of counterfeit or inferior stones.

3. Request Official Gemstone Certificates

An official certification is your best protection when buying July birthstone jewelry. Renowned gemological institutes include the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), Swiss Gübelin Gem Lab, and the Gemmological Association of Great Britain, among others. These certificates detail key features such as color, clarity, cut, weight, origin, and treatment status. Always ask for a formal certificate and verify its authenticity through the issuing organization's website.

4. Assess the Ruby Birthstone’s Quality

When choosing your ruby stone, carefully examine the color uniformity, saturation level, and transparency. Look at the stone under various lighting conditions—natural daylight, incandescent light, and fluorescent light—to see if the color remains stable. Also, inspect the surface for scratches, cracks, or other flaws.

5. Consider the Purpose of Birthstone Jewelry

Think about how you plan to use the July birthstone jewelry. For everyday wear, choose ruby birthstones with good clarity and no visible internal cracks to ensure durability. If you're buying for collection or investment, focus more on rarity and appreciation potential, including the stone’s origin, unique colors, and whether it’s treated.

6. Explore Cost-Effective Alternatives

If you're on a tighter budget, consider some alternatives. For example, opt for a smaller carat ruby stone of excellent quality, or choose a slightly lighter color ruby with higher clarity. Sometimes a top-quality 1-carat ruby can be more beautiful and valuable than a average-quality 3-carat one.

Popular July Birthstone Jewelry in LUO Jewelry

The modern jewelry designers at LUO Jewelry unleash their creativity by blending the July birthstone with various metals, other gemstones, and innovative design ideas. The result is a stunning array of July birthstone jewelry, including ruby rings, earrings, and necklaces. The ruby, July's signature gemstone, stands out with its unique red hue and exceptional hardness, making it a perfect centerpiece in jewelry design. Explore our popular selection of July birthstone jewelry.

Popular July Birthstone Rings