Given for the 15th or 40th wedding anniversaries, Ruby (July's birthstone) is derived from the Latin word ruber, meaning "red," also the color for passion and love.
In ancient India, ruby was called the “king of precious stones” for its rarity, hardness, and perceived mystical powers.
Here are a few fun facts:
- The finest rubies typically form in marble deposits.
- The largest ruby in the world is an uncut rough stone weighing over 8 lbs! That translates to over 18,500 cts.
- Burmese rubies are considered the oldest source (600 AD), and most sought after red hue.
Rubies have also been used to symbolize passion, protection, and prosperity.
Not ready to drop a couple thousand dollars on a fine Burmese Ruby? Did you know there are other gemstones that can be substituted as a birthstone for July? Carnelian, tourmaline, onyx, and chrysocolla are just a few. Check out these other alternate red gemstones!