July's Birthstone is Ruby
The Ruby is said to symbolise love, enthusiasm and strength. It has been the gem of passion and the heart's desire since the dawn of time. It is known as the "Lord of the Gems" because of its rarity and beauty.Colour: The word ruby is derived from the Latin word "tuber" which simply means red. Ruby, like sapphire, is the red variety of corundum and only exists as a true red colour. The finest colour is a vivid, almost pure spectral red with a very faint undertone of blue, as seen in Burmese rubies which are considered the finest.
History: It was thought that rubies possessed an inner flame that burned eternally. Throughout the Middle Ages and early Renaissance the ruby was considered the precious stone most associated with weddings as they were supposed to keep passion alive and promote lasting love and contentment in marriage. It was also believed they had the power to bestow peace and harmony and protect wearers from discord and all perils of war. As part of the usual fashioning process, virtually all rubies are heated to permanently improve their colour and appearance.
Found in: Burma, Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Tanzania, Cambodia, Afghanistan and India.