Ruby July's Birthstone
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Birthstone for July
Rubies sometimes known as the king of gems, the birthstone for July as well as the gemstone for commemorating the 15th and 40th Wedding Anniversaries. These beautiful stones with red colours ranging from pinkish to purple hues are very popular in many jewellery collections. In fact large good quality Rubies can be more valuable than diamonds.
Named after the Latin word Ruber meaning red, rubies and ruby jewellery are mention throughout history. From the bible to ancient Hindu religion, as well as royalty and the Romans to name but a few.
History of the Ruby
With an interesting history the first ruby was said to be discovered in Sri Lanka, over 2500 years ago. Indeed many of the most famous ruby gemstones have come from this area, together with Burma.
But today there are many locations that these beautiful gemstones are found including America Tanzania Kenya and Pakistan.
Queen Elizabeth II had a gift from the Nizam of Hyderbad of 96 fabulous rubies. They were made into Tudor roses and incorporated into Burmese Ruby Tiara by the royal jeweller Garrard.
When Bernadotte was chosen to be King of Sweden and Denmark the French coronation ruby necklace became part of the Royal crown jewels in Sweden.
Richard Burton also purchased some of the most beautiful Rubies for Elizabeth Taylor.
Richard promised her that he would find her the most beautiful diamond in the world. It took years of searching and his search ended with a ruby from Van Cleef & Arpels. At Christmas in 1968 Elizabeth Burton was presented with a ring created from a 8.24 carat Burmese pigeon blood ruby of fabulous quality, surrounded by diamonds.
Meaning
Believed in ancient times to soothe inflammation predict misfortune and reduce anger this coveted gemstone now is prized for symbolizing commitment and love, Ruby jewellery is sure to remain a firm favourite.