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Ruby as Birthstone for Individuals Born in July Unveiled

July-born individuals are privileged to claim the radiant ruby as their birthstone. For further insights about this gemstone steeped in historical significance and contemporary success, explore its fascinating aspects.

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Guide for Birthstones: Ruby for Individuals Born in July Month
Guide for Birthstones: Ruby for Individuals Born in July Month

Ruby as Birthstone for Individuals Born in July Unveiled

News Article: The Allure of Rubies

Rubies, the vibrant pinkish-red to blood-red gemstones, are a captivating variety of corundum (aluminium oxide). The red color in rubies is primarily due to chromium impurities, replacing aluminum ions in the crystal lattice [1][2].

Physically, rubies are very hard, rating 9 on the Mohs scale, second only to diamond and slightly harder than sapphire, both also corundum varieties. They belong to the trigonal crystal system, with no cleavage and a vitreous luster [1][2][4].

Culturally, rubies have been symbols of passion, power, and love, often associated with the root and heart chakras, conveying strength, courage, and devotion in romantic and personal contexts. They are traditional choices for engagement and anniversary jewelry, embodying success, affection, and resilience [4].

The most valued rubies typically exhibit a strong, vibrant red, with the rare "pigeon's blood" red considered pinnacle in color quality. Rubies with more pink tones are generally less valuable, while those with too dark or brownish shades also decline in worth [3]. Clarity is assessed differently than in diamonds, as natural rubies usually have inclusions, regarded as fingerprints of origin. "Eye-clean" (no visible inclusions to the naked eye) rubies are especially prized and rare [3].

Origins affect rubies’ characteristics: Myanmar (Burma) remains famous for producing rubies with intense red hues and excellent transparency. Other significant sources include Thailand, Mozambique, and Sri Lanka, each with distinctive geological contexts influencing ruby features [2].

Treatments to enhance rubies are common, including heat treatment to improve color and clarity by reducing inclusions and enhancing tone. Other treatments like fracture filling may occur but lower value [3]. Untreated rubies in premium color and clarity command the highest prices [3].

Common inclusions include rutile needles (silk), which can enhance the stone's luster and sometimes are responsible for asterism (star effects). Inclusions can affect durability if extensive but often attest to natural origin [1][3].

Care for rubies involves protecting them from sharp blows and sudden temperature changes despite their hardness, cleaning with mild soap and water, and avoiding harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners if the stone is treated or contains fractures [1][3].

Rubies are often associated with love and passion, making them a fitting choice as the July birthstone [5]. However, buyers should exercise caution as some may have been fracture-filled with lead glass to improve color and clarity [6].

In summary, rubies are durable, chromium-colored corundum gems with deep cultural symbolism, variable natural inclusions, regionally influenced characteristics, and sometimes treated for enhanced aesthetics. Their care demands gentle cleaning and awareness of treatments and inclusions to maintain beauty and value [1][2][3][4].

References:

[1] Geology.com. (n.d.). Ruby. Retrieved from https://www.geology.com/minerals/ruby.shtml

[2] Gemselect. (n.d.). Ruby Gemstone Information. Retrieved from https://www.gemselect.com/gem-encyclopedia/Ruby

[3] International Gem Society. (n.d.). Ruby. Retrieved from https://www.gemsociety.org/education/ruby-gemstone-information/

[4] National Jeweler. (2019, June 12). Ruby: The June Birthstone. Retrieved from https://www.nationaljeweler.com/trend/ruby-the-june-birthstone/

[5] National Jeweler. (n.d.). July Birthstone: Ruby. Retrieved from https://www.nationaljeweler.com/trend/july-birthstone-ruby/

[6] National Jeweler. (2018, November 13). Lead-Glass Filled Rubies: What You Need to Know. Retrieved from https://www.nationaljeweler.com/trend/lead-glass-filled-rubies-what-you-need-to-know/

  1. Expand your knowledge with educational courses on gemmology to understand rubies better.
  2. A star-studded lifestyle can include rare diamonds, but don't forget the captivating charm of rubies.
  3. Join a membership program for shopping exclusive deals on fashion-and-beauty products, including jewelry with rubies.
  4. Consider hosting workshops on home-and-garden improvement, using rubies as centerpieces for an enchanting touch.
  5. To express love and passion, jewelry with rubies can be the perfect gift for relationships.
  6. Adopt a pet and give it a ruby-studded collar as a symbol of your devotion.
  7. Plan a travel itinerary visiting destinations known for producing rubies, like Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, or Sri Lanka.
  8. Customize your car with sporty rims, or add a touch of opulence with a ruby-encrusted dashboard.
  9. Learn new skills with courses in education-and-self-development, such as the art of pairing fine foods-and-drink with gemstones like rubies.

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