Ruby - the July Birthstone

A Ruby is a pink to blood-red colored gemstone, and it is one of the most expensive gemstones. It is a variety of the mineral corundum (Aluminium Oxide), ranked third in hardness after diamond and moissanite. The presence of the element chromium is what mainly causing the red color in Rubies. Any other color than red in gem-quality corundum classifies it as sapphire.

Large rubies are extremely rare and more expensive than diamonds. So in recent years it has become more and more popular with artificial lab grown Rubies (corundum), which in contrast to natural gemstones are perfectly transparent, have solid color, large size, absence of cracks and foreign inclusions. In Rubies the most important feature is the color, the transparency (unlike diamonds) is only of secondary importance and inclusions are usually considered as a proof of its authenticity and natural origin. Ruby changes color every 1000 years and reaches its full perfection only after 7000 years!

Ruby has been the most popular gemstone for thousands of years. It symbolizes love and passion, and believed to promote friendship. Ruby is a stone of power, strength and vibrant energy force. Genuine Ruby protects against evil spells, chases away depression and warns its owner of impending danger by changing hues. This is a magical gemstone that is associated with the mysteries of the World Beyond.

My jewelry pieces with Rubies that are currently for sale: