July birthstone fun facts
Like sapphire, ruby is a gem-quality piece of the mineral corundum. Red corundum is a ruby, while any other colors of corundum are technically sapphires - even though we think of them primarily as deep blue.
Rubies are the most prized gemstones of all, called the “King of Gems." Large rubies are rarer than large diamonds, emeralds, or sapphires. The largest ruby ever discovered was known as the Liberty Bell Ruby, weighing in at four pounds. It was stolen in a 2011 heist and never recovered.
Ancient stories from Asia and Greece depict the ruby as literally glowing, lighting whole rooms.
In the Middle Ages, rubies were thought to cure bleeding and bring good health, as well as warn against coming misfortune. It is said that Catherine of Aragon, Henry VII’s first wife, foresaw her downfall in the darkening of her ruby.
Originally the stone of protection (ancient Chinese warriors were known to wear rubies on their armor), ruby’s meaning has changed today to that of love and passion.
Ruby-colored sun-melted glass jewelry
This bright, ruby red glass is sure to entrance your July birthday girl. She’ll adore the breathtaking ruby-red swirls, curling and twisting in the heart of clear glass.
