July - Ruby
Meaning: Contentment
Rubies are indeed the ultimate red gemstone. It’s likely no other precious stone (not even the diamond) has been so cherished as the grand ruby. They’ve been associated with passion, fire, courage and of course blood (being its very color). They have inspired countless numbers of stories and myths including bringing soldiers bravery and valor into battle, and bringing healing to blood diseases and bleeding. It also has more biblical references than any other jewel.
The only substance in the world harder than a ruby is the diamond itself. Its sister is the sapphire and the most valuable rubies are mined in Burma, with other locations found in Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Tanzania, Cambodia, Afghanistan and India.
When purchasing a ruby, the most important aspect is color; more valuable rubies are deeper, richer and resemble the vibrancy of blood. Because of their intense color and durability, they make ideal accents to diamonds in all types of jewelry. Although the some rubies have fetched amounts far above the diamond, they are readily available for jewelry in varying budgets.