July Birthstones
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This beautiful ruby ring is just one of the
fine gifts available at Daniel's Jewelers. Visit our convenient downtown
Bluffton store to see additional selections. |
Ruby
Ruby is the accepted birthstone for July. It is also the accepted anniversary
gemstone for the 15th and 40th year of marriage.
Ruby is known as the "Lord of the Gems" because of its rarity and
beauty. Derived from the Latin word "rubber," it simply means red.
Ruby, like sapphire, is a variety of corundum and only exists as a true red
in color. The finest color is a vivid, almost pure spectral red.
Many believed rubies possessed an inner flame that burned eternally.
As part of the customary fashioning process, virtually all rubies are heated
to permanently improve their color and appearance.
As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches
and sharp blows.
The finest rubies emanate from Burma, having been mined there since ancient
times. Other sources include Thailand, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Tanzania,
Cambodia, Afghanistan and India.