The July Birthstone: Ruby
The July Birthstone: Ruby
Harry Winston Ruby Slippers
The July Birthstone: Ruby
Famous for the beauty and depth of its colouring, Rubies are one of the most desired gemstones.
Taking its name from the Latin word ‘ruber’ meaning red - The colour of love and passion.
Historically, and still today, Rubies are believed to protect the wear from harm or illness, especially when worn against the skin. This was never more prevalent than when Early Burmese warriors would not only carry Rubies, adorn their armour and weapons with them, but wearer the gemstone under their skin. It was believed that the stone held the power to make them invincible in battle.
One of the oldest recorded Ruby sources dates back to Burma, now referred to as Myanmar, around 600AD. For centuries this part of the world has produced some of the most sought-after, vibrant, fluorescent red Rubies, partly due to the rich deposits of marble in which this gem stone forms.
In the 20th century Vietnam became an important source for the stone and more recently so has Mozambique. Rubies found in Mozambique’s prolific Montepuez mines can be just as breathtaking as those found in Burma.
Rich deposits of Rubies are now found all over Asia including Sri Lanka, Kenya and Afghanistan.
In 1989, 50 years after the release of The Wizard of Oz and Dorothy’s illustrious ruby red slippers, world renowned jewellers Harry Winston’s produced a replica pair of real Ruby slippers. Boasting over 4,500 thousand Rubies with a carat weight of 1,350, and 50 carats of diamonds these Ruby slippers are valued at $3 million dollars - How wouldn’t want a pair of these for their July birthday.
In addition to being the July birthstone, Ruby is also the traditional gift given for 40th Wedding anniversaries.
Discover more about Rubies in-store with a member of our experienced team or view online today with our selection of modern and pre-owned Ruby treasures.
