July birth stone
Ruby
Said to bring passion and vitality.
Birth month crystals: Carnelian
Shop ruby
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Meaning & lore
Ruby is the red variety of corundum, the same mineral as sapphire. Its name comes from the Latin ruber, meaning red, and in ancient India it was called ratnaraj, the king of gems. Burmese rubies were once believed to make warriors invincible. GIA says ruby represents passion, love and success.
Caring for ruby
Ruby is very hard (Mohs 9), second only to diamond, and suits everyday wear. Warm soapy water is always safe. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are usually safe for untreated or heat-treated rubies, but skip them if the stone is heavily treated or has been fracture-filled.
Also for July
Birth flower: Larkspur
A symbol of an open heart.