Both rank 9 on the Mohs scale, making them durable for jewelry, but their market value, color standards, and symbolic meanings vary significantly. We’ll break down these key differences, focusing on what matters most to you. This includes how their traits suit everyday wear or special pieces, and how color and origin impact style and value as you build your jewelry collection.

The Mineral Foundation: Same Core, Different Hues

At a geological level, rubies and sapphires share identical mineral composition—they are both aluminum oxide (corundum) crystals. The only factor that separates them is the presence of specific trace elements during formation:

• Rubies: Chromium is the magic ingredient, accounting for their iconic red color. Even minute amounts (0.5% to 1%) of chromium create the rich, fiery tones that define rubies. The most valuable rubies exhibit a “pigeon blood red” hue—an intense, vivid red with subtle blue undertones—that remains the gold standard in the market.
• Sapphires: Their color diversity stems from different trace elements. Iron and titanium combine to produce classic blue sapphires, while iron alone creates yellow or green sapphires, and chromium (in smaller amounts than rubies) yields pink sapphires. Lavender sapphires have maintained high popularity for two consecutive years, and padparadscha sapphires (a delicate blend of pink and orange) are particularly sought-after.

Notably, corundum that lacks trace elements is colorless (called “white sapphire”), but it’s far less valuable than its colored counterparts. Both gemstones form in metamorphic and igneous rocks, with core origins in Myanmar, Mozambique (for rubies), and Sri Lanka, Myanmar (for sapphires).

Color Standards & Market Value: What Drives Price Differences

For both rubies and sapphires, color is the primary driver of value, but the standards for “ideal” color differ dramatically:

Rubies: Rarity of Intense Red

Ruby supply remains scarce, with raw material prices rising due to reduced auction volumes. The most valuable rubies are those with “pigeon blood red” color, certified by leading labs like GIA, GRS, or GUILD. While 2-carat and smaller rubies dominate the market, high-quality rubies over 2 carats retain stable value and are considered investment-grade. Heated rubies (a common, accepted treatment) are more accessible, while unheated (“no-heat”) rubies command a significant premium due to their rarity.

Sapphires: Diversity in Color & Accessibility

Sapphires offer broader accessibility, with classic blue varieties (royal blue and cornflower blue) being the most recognizable. However, the market is seeing strong demand for padparadscha and lavender sapphires, reflecting a shift toward diverse aesthetics. Unlike rubies, sapphires tend to be more affordable at smaller carat sizes. This makes them a popular choice for everyday jewelry and engagement rings. While top-tier sapphires—such as the Kashmir cornflower blue variety—still command high prices, sapphires overall offer greater flexibility across different budgets.

Durability & Wearability: Suitable for Everyday Use?

Both rubies and sapphires rank 9 on the Mohs scale, second only to diamonds. This high hardness makes them highly durable for daily wear. Their toughness—that is, their ability to resist chipping or cracking—is also excellent. However, we still advise clients to avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals and to store them separately to prevent scratches.

For practical reasons, sapphires are often the preferred choice for daily jewelry. Their wider range of colors and generally more accessible price point allow for greater versatility in styling. Rubies, with their bold red hue, are ideal for statement pieces or special occasions. Their exceptional durability also makes them well-suited to be cherished and passed down as heirlooms.

Symbolism & Styling Tips

Beyond their physical differences, rubies and sapphires carry distinct symbolic meanings:

• Rubies: Symbols of passion, love, and vitality, rubies have long been associated with heart and courage. This makes them a meaningful choice for anniversary gifts, engagement rings, or even self-love pieces. For styling, yellow gold settings remain a classic match. They help amplify the gem’s warm red tones. For everyday wear, consider a delicate solitaire pendant or a thin band. For formal occasions, a larger, faceted ruby—perhaps accented with subtle stones like small diamonds—makes a striking statement. Rubies also pair beautifully with neutral metals like rose gold, and they complement earthy outfits (think cream, tan, or deep green) to add a pop of color without overwhelming the look.
• Sapphires: Represent loyalty, wisdom, and elegance, with their versatile colors making them adaptable to nearly any style. Blue sapphires (made famous by royal figures) are a timeless engagement ring choice, and white gold or platinum settings highlight their cool, rich hue. Lavender and pink sapphires work beautifully with silver or rose gold, ideal for layered necklaces or stackable rings for everyday wear. For padparadscha sapphires (pink-orange), rose gold is a perfect complement, adding warmth that enhances the gem’s unique tone. Sapphires also pair well with both casual and formal attire: a small blue sapphire stud earring elevates jeans and a blouse, while a statement sapphire bracelet adds elegance to evening wear.

Key Tips for Buying Rubies & Sapphires

When purchasing these gemstones—including both natural and lab-grown varieties—there are three non-negotiables to keep in mind:

1. Certification: Always ask for a lab report from reputable, established labs—including GIA, GRS, GUILD, etc.—to verify origin (natural or lab-grown), treatment (heated vs. unheated for natural stones), and color grade. Lab-grown rubies and sapphires have the same physical and optical properties as natural ones but are often more accessible. Certification from any of these trusted labs helps clearly distinguish between the two—ensuring transparency and protecting your investment.
2. Ethical Sourcing: For natural gemstones, choose options from responsible origins—Mozambique rubies and Sri Lankan sapphires are ethical alternatives to high-risk regions. Lab-grown rubies and sapphires are also a fantastic ethical choice, as they are conflict-free, environmentally friendly, and eliminate concerns about unethical mining practices.
3. Personal Preference: Let your style and intent guide you. If you want a bold, investment-worthy piece, a high-quality ruby is ideal. For versatility and everyday wear, a sapphire offers endless options.

Whether you’re drawn to the fiery allure of natural or lab-grown rubies, or the timeless elegance of sapphires, keeping these tips in mind will help you find a piece that aligns with your style, values, and budget. Both natural and lab-grown options offer unique benefits, making it easy to find a gemstone that feels perfect for you.

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What Are The Big Three Gemstones?

The designation of ruby, sapphire, and emerald as the “Big Three” is a narrative woven through history, from ancient Sanskrit texts to modern auction houses. Their preeminence is no accident—royalty, clergy, and collectors have coveted them for centuries. These gems possess three defining traits: an unmatched saturation of color, remarkable hardness that ensures they endure across generations, and a cultural weight that gives them deep significance. As the original precious colored stones, they remain the benchmark for all others.

Ruby — The King of Passion

Ruby’s fiery red, with its most prized “pigeon’s blood” hue, has symbolized intense love, courage, and vitality throughout history. This profound symbolism makes it a powerful centerpiece for jewelry meant to convey deep commitment.

In terms of physical properties, ruby is exceptionally durable. With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, it is second only to diamond, making it perfectly suited for everyday wear in engagement rings and other frequently worn pieces.

When evaluating a ruby, color is the most critical factor. The finest stones exhibit a vivid, saturated red with minimal secondary tones. While inclusions are common, they should not detract from the stone’s overall brilliance and transparency. A well-executed cut is essential to release its captivating inner fire.

Sapphire — The Stone of Wisdom & Loyalty

The classic blue sapphire embodies loyalty, wisdom, and serene nobility. Its deep, velvety blue has been a staple in royal collections for centuries, representing a love built on trust and integrity. (It’s worth noting that sapphires also present in other colors, such as romantic pink, offering versatile options for personal expression.)

Sharing ruby’s exceptional hardness of 9, sapphire is equally robust and ideal for heirloom jewelry that stands the test of time. This durability pairs with its timeless elegance.

The value of a blue sapphire is primarily driven by its color. Look for a rich, intense blue that is neither too dark nor too pale. High clarity is common, and a precise cut enhances its brilliant, vitreous luster, allowing the stone to showcase its classic beauty from every angle.

Emerald — The Jewel of Rebirth

Emerald’s lush green is universally synonymous with renewal, hope, and the harmony of nature. It represents a love that grows and flourishes, offering a deeply meaningful alternative for significant jewelry. Cleopatra cherished emeralds, and they have adorned crowns and sacred artifacts throughout history.

Emeralds possess a unique character. With a hardness of 7.5 to 8, they require more mindful care than corundum gems. Their beauty is often defined by distinctive inclusions, known as the jardin (garden), which are accepted as a hallmark of natural origin rather than a flaw.

Selecting an emerald involves a different set of priorities. Color is paramount—a vivid, grassy green is most desired. Clarity should be judged with an understanding that some inclusions are expected. Due to their fragility, emeralds are often cut into shapes with stepped facets, like the iconic emerald cut, and benefit from protective settings to ensure their longevity.

Choosing Your Big Three Gemstone: A Quick Guide

Your choice among these timeless classics is a personal journey. Let the stone’s inherent symbolism guide you: choose Ruby for bold passion, Sapphire for loyal tranquility, or Emerald for hopeful renewal.

Consider your lifestyle—the supreme durability of ruby and sapphire makes them worry-free for active wear, while the exquisite emerald asks for a little more care in exchange for its unique vintage charm. Ultimately, the right stone is the one whose color and story resonate most deeply with you.

FAQs: The Big Three Gemstones

Q1: Which is the most expensive of the Big Three?

A: Among natural stones, fine rubies typically command the highest price per carat, followed by sapphires and emeralds, with value driven by rarity, color, and clarity. Lab-grown versions of all three offer identical physical and optical properties at a more accessible price point due to a controlled supply chain.

Q2: Are sapphires only blue?

A: No. The term “sapphire” encompasses all gem-quality corundum except for red (which is ruby). This includes pink, yellow, and Padparadscha (salmon-pink) sapphires.

Q3: Which is best for an everyday engagement ring?

A: Rubies and sapphires (Mohs 9) offer superior durability for daily wear. Emeralds (7.5-8) are more delicate; a protective setting (like a bezel) is recommended.

Q4: Are lab-grown rubies, sapphires, and emeralds considered “real” gemstones?

A: Yes, they are genuine gemstones. They are chemically, physically, and optically identical to their natural counterparts. The sole difference is their origin: one is formed in the earth over millennia, the other in a laboratory that replicates those natural conditions.

Q5: How can you tell if a gemstone is natural or lab-grown?

A: It is impossible to distinguish with the naked eye. Identification requires analysis by a professional gemological laboratory (e.g., GIA, IGI) to detect subtle differences in growth patterns or trace elements. Reputable sellers should provide full disclosure and a report stating the stone’s origin.

Q6: Why choose a lab-grown version of these gemstones?

A: Choosing a lab-grown gemstone is often motivated by several factors: obtaining a larger or higher-color stone for one’s budget, ensuring a guaranteed ethical and conflict-free origin, and selecting an option with a generally lower environmental impact than mining.

Q7: Do natural gemstones always undergo treatments?

A: Most natural rubies and sapphires are heat-treated to enhance color, and the vast majority of emeralds are oiled to improve clarity. These are standard, accepted practices but must be disclosed.

Q8: Do lab-grown gemstones hold value?

A: Lab-grown gemstones hold significant aesthetic, sentimental, and craftsmanship value. They are a permanent heirloom-quality material. Their primary value proposition is providing access to luxury color and quality at an exceptional price point, rather than acting as a speculative financial investment.

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1. Historical Origins of July’s Birthstones

The stories of ruby and onyx stretch across empires and eras, each layer of their history revealing why they became July’s birthstones. Rubies, celebrated as the “king of gems,” pulsed with life in ancient texts, while onyx served as both armor and artistry. These stones weren’t merely adornments—they were cultural touchstones, their meanings etched into rituals and regalia.

Ruby’s Regal Pedigree

To hold a ruby was to grasp a piece of the divine. Sanskrit poets called it “ratnaraj” (“king of gems”); medieval knights believed it could deflect arrows, and Renaissance painters ground its powder to depict sacred wounds. By 1912, its fiery hue made it the natural choice for July’s birthstones—a symbol of vitality still sought after in fine jewelry today.

Onyx’s Protective Legacy

Onyx’s power lay in its contrasts: a stone of mourning and might. Mesopotamians carved it into seals to authenticate decrees; Roman generals wore it to channel Mars’ ferocity, and Victorians set it in jet-black rings to honor the departed. Its bold elegance continues to resonate, a testament to its enduring symbolic weight.

Why Does July Have Two Birthstones?

The duality of ruby and onyx reflects humanity’s love of layered meaning. Ruby, July’s modern birthstone, embodies summer’s zenith, while onyx preserves ancient ties to Leo season and older calendrical systems. Together, they offer a choice between fire and fortitude—two sides of July’s spirit.

2. Gemological Face-Off: Ruby vs. Onyx

Fascinating Facts:

• Ruby’s Rarity: Natural pigeon-blood rubies over 3 carats are 30x rarer than equivalent diamonds.
• Onyx’s Versatility: Often dyed to enhance blackness (natural deep black is rare), but banded sardonyx occurs naturally.

3. Symbolism & Modern Appeal

Ruby: The Stone of Fire & Life

Rubies have long been seen as vessels of vitality. Burmese warriors believed they granted invincibility, while ancient Hindus associated them with the sun’s eternal flame. Even in darkness, their deep crimson hue appears to glow, which led some cultures to view them as protective talismans. (Interestingly, legends claimed a ruby’s color would dim to warn of approaching danger, then reignite once the threat passed.) Today, this mesmerizing depth makes them a timeless symbol of passion, whether set in heirloom pieces or contemporary designs.

Onyx: The Stone of Strength & Contrast

Onyx’s bold, layered appearance has symbolized duality across cultures—both a shield against harm and a canvas for artistry. The ancient Persians carved it into amulets to deflect negativity, while Art Deco jewelers used its stark bands to create striking geometric patterns. Modern wearers value it as much for its grounding energy as its sleek versatility, making it a favorite for both statement pieces and understated elegance.

Popular July Birthstone Jewelry

Final Thoughts

Like the height of summer itself, July’s birthstones offer two sides of the same radiant coin. The ruby—fiery, passionate, alive with legend—speaks to those drawn to bold symbolism and vibrant energy. The onyx—grounded, sophisticated, rich with contrast—resonates with lovers of modern elegance and timeless mystique.

Whether you’re captivated by the ruby’s living flame or the onyx’s striking depth, both stones carry centuries of meaning waiting to be woven into your story. Which July birthstone speaks to your soul—the radiant ruby or the enigmatic onyx?

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30th Wedding Anniversary – Pearl

Pearl is the gemstone representing the 30th wedding anniversary. With their lustrous beauty cultivated inside an oyster’s shell, pearls symbolize the wisdom and maturity gained from 30 years of experience in marriage. Therefore, pearls make a classic anniversary gift choice, allowing spouses to commemorate three decades of faithfulness to their vows in an elegant way. Furthermore, the cool whiteness of pearls is a perfect color to signify purity, purity of intentions, and purity of feelings that have lasted through each year since the wedding day.

35th Wedding Anniversary – Emerald

Emeralds are the gemstone representing the 35th wedding anniversary. Prized for their brilliant green hue, emeralds signify renewal, rebirth, and enduring youthfulness. Even after 35 years of marriage, the continued freshness and vibrancy within the relationship is as well as the emeralds. Besides, their deep color evokes lush foliage. This also symbolizes the couple’s persevering commitment to growth both individually and as partners through more than three decades together. Overall, an emerald anniversary gift honors the renewal of feelings that has sustained the marriage across nearly four decades.

40th Wedding Anniversary – Ruby

Ruby is the gemstone representing the 40th wedding anniversary. Renowned for their fiery crimson color, rubies symbolize strength, passion, and unwavering love that has lasted through four remarkable decades of marriage. After 40 years of partnership, the rich red hue of rubies signifies the vibrancy and warmth that continues to thrive within the relationship. Their brilliant color also represents the deep love and commitment that has endured for forty years. Rubies make a beautiful anniversary gift for spouses to commemorate 40 years of dedication to each other through both challenging and joyous times together.

45th Wedding Anniversary – Sapphire

Sapphire is the gemstone that symbolizes the 45th wedding anniversary. Renowned for their beauty in hues of blue, sapphires represent wisdom, trust, and devotion gained from 45 years of marriage. After nearly five decades, the deep color of sapphires evokes the unyielding faithfulness and understanding within a couple’s bond. Like the sea whose depths a sapphire suggests, their marriage has proven steadfast through the changing tides of time. An anniversary gift of sapphires honors the constant loyalty that has endured nearly half a century of partnership.

50th Wedding Anniversary – Golden Jubilee

Gold represents the 50th wedding anniversary, also known as the Golden Anniversary. As the name suggests, gold symbolizes 50 years of marital commitment and partnership. It represents wealth, prosperity, longevity, and faithfulness. Gold reflects the strengthening and deepening of love and trust between couples over the long journey of half a century together. Therefore, wearing gold jewelry or gift gold items to celebrate the 50th anniversary is a way to honor five decades of shared memories, ups and downs together through thick and thin.

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The Origins of Ruby

Ruby, derived from the Latin word “ruber” meaning red, is a precious gemstone well-known for its vibrant crimson hue. It has a rich history dating back thousands of years, and ancient cultures revered its beauty and believed it brought good fortune. Additionally, it is worth noting that rubies surpassed mere admiration; they also held significant symbolism in royal circles. For instance, kings and queens adorned themselves with these captivating gemstones as a striking expression of power and wealth. People highly value rubies for their durability, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale. Rubies primarily occur in Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Mozambique and continue to be cherished for their rarity, elegance, and passionate red color.

Ruby in Ancient Cultures

• Egypt: In ancient Egypt, people attributed great significance to the ruby, calling it the “stone of love” and “stone of courage.” They believed the ruby possessed protective qualities and frequently incorporated it into royal jewelry, crowns, and amulets. Besides, the ancient Egyptians associated rubies with the sun and thought they brought vitality, protection against evil, and harmony to relationships. They also believed rubies could safeguard the wearer against misfortune and bring prosperity.

• Greece and Rome: In ancient Greece and Rome, people highly valued rubies and associated them with power, wealth, and social status. They regarded rubies as the “king of gemstones” and frequently incorporated them into royal regalia, crowns, and accessories worn by emperors and high-ranking officials. Also, people believe that rubies could possess the power of invincibility and provide protection to the wearers. Furthermore, according to Greek mythology, rubies could preserve health, ignite passion, and ensure success in battles.

• India: Rubies have had a rich cultural significance in India for thousands of years. Referred to as “Manikya” in Sanskrit, they have long been regarded as one of the most treasured gemstones. Inextricably linked to the sun, rubies embody qualities of power, courage, and vitality. Moreover, the belief in their ability to bestow good fortune, repel malevolent spirits, and cultivate well-being and prosperity permeated society. This allure led Indian royalty to bedeck themselves with these magnificent jewels, thereby elevating rubies to symbols of wealth and prestige. Furthermore, Hindu mythology intertwined rubies with the divine figure of Surya, the sun god, endowing them with sacred and transcendental qualities.

The Symbolism of Ruby

The symbolism of ruby revolves around love, passion, vitality, success, courage, protection, and devotion. People cherish this gemstone for its vibrant color and powerful qualities, making it a popular choice for jewelry with deep meaning.

• Passion and Love: People often associate ruby with fiery emotions, passion, and love. The gem’s vibrant red color signifies intense feelings, desire, and romantic love. Many consider it a gemstone that embodies deep affection and emotional connection.

• Vitality and Energy: The striking red hue of ruby symbolizes vitality and energy. People believe it can imbue the wearer with a sense of strength, courage, and life force. And it can also enhance motivation, enthusiasm, and the ability to overcome challenges.

• Wealth and Success: Throughout the ages, people have linked ruby to wealth and prosperity. It has long been regarded as a stone of abundance and success across different cultures. Many believe that ruby has the power to attract good fortune, material wealth, and lucrative business opportunities.

• Protection and Courage: People have held ruby in high regard for centuries as a talisman of protection and courage. Because people believe that ruby can fend off negative energies, evil spirits, and misfortune. Moreover, ruby imbues individuals with confidence, bravery, and inner strength.

• Devotion and Commitment: People associate ruby with devotion and commitment in relationships, as it symbolizes deep love, loyalty, and faithfulness. People often choose ruby as an engagement or anniversary gift to symbolize eternal love and dedication.

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Emerald

Emerald is a stunning green gemstone highly revered for its beauty and symbolism as the birthstone of May. For centuries, it has been linked with different meanings, like prosperity, rebirth, and fertility. Emerald is a perfect gift for mothers as it represents love, nurturing, and devotion. It symbolizes the unwavering bond between a mother and child that never fades away. As a gemstone that encourages emotional healing and spiritual growth, emerald is an excellent way to express gratitude and appreciation for the unselfish sacrifices and unwavering love that mothers give to their children. It is a rare, durable, and timeless gemstone that is highly valued and treasured.

Sapphire 

Sapphire, the gemstone of loyalty, honesty, and love, is a fitting tribute for mothers who embody these remarkable qualities. Specifically, its stunning blue hues signify dignity, truth, and wisdom, symbolizing royalty and nobility for centuries. Thus, it’s a testament to the unwavering love, devotion, and guidance that mothers give their children. Moreover, wearing sapphire brings tranquility and calmness to the wearer, a constant reminder of mothers’ boundless love, care, and nurturing. As a gemstone that exudes elegance and grace, sapphire is a cherished gift that will bring happiness and joy to every mother.

Birthstone Style Gemstone – Ruby

Ruby, the gemstone of passion, vitality, and love, is an ideal gift for mothers who embody these extraordinary qualities. Its deep red color represents a mother’s heart’s warmth and unconditional love. Additionally, Ruby is well-known for its healing powers and protective abilities against negative energy and sadness, making it an excellent gift for mothers who support and strengthen their children daily. It also reminds us of the sacrifices and dedication of mothers who selflessly give their love and care to their children. As a result, bold and beautiful ruby is a perfect way to express gratitude and appreciation for the love and care of mothers.

Healing Style Gemstone – Amethyst 

Amethyst, the gemstone of tranquility, balance, and spirituality, is an excellent gift for mothers. Its soothing violet hues promote calmness and peacefulness, making it perfect for mothers who are always there during stressful times. It purifies the mind and body, increases spiritual awareness, and supports emotional stability. Amethyst serves as a reminder of mothers’ unwavering care, love, and support while emphasizing the importance of rejuvenating and recharging. Its outstanding beauty and healing properties make it a cherished and appreciated gift for any mother.

Meaningful Gemstone – Pearl

Pearl is the only gemstone created by living organisms, symbolizing purity, beauty, and wisdom, making it a meaningful gift for mothers. It reflects the unique relationship between a mother and her child, indicating the pure and selfless love only a mother can provide. Additionally, the pearl has a calming effect on the body and mind, bringing balance and harmony to life. It emphasizes the importance of cherishing significant moments and appreciating the essential things in life. Lastly, as a timeless and classic gemstone, the pearl is a cherished and beloved gift for any mother.

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11th Anniversary Gemstone: Turquoise

Turquoise is one of the world’s most ancient gems as an opaque, blue-to-green mineral. The famous Turquoise Jewelry worldwide is the Pharaoh’s iconic burial mask from Tutankhamun’s tomb. The gorgeous Turquoise liberally spread on it artistically to express the distinguished status of the ruler.

Believed to be a ceremonial gem, Turquoise was very popular among Native American tribes in the southwestern US. Also, it was not only an amulet that represented energy and wisdom but also a popular piece of jewelry in the modern age. It received its upsurge in Europe during the excavation of Tutankhamun’s tomb. Turquoise influenced many architecture and artwork at the time and was often cut in cabochon in silver rings or chunky necklaces in the jewelry.

12th Anniversary Gem: Jade

Jade is a mineral of tiny interlocking mineral crystals. The word jade can refer to either of two distinct silicate minerals: nephrite or Jadeite, which have distinctly different compositions.

Jadeite often has various bright and attractive colors like classic shades of green, fancy yellow, reddish-orange, etc. In addition, it can be solid-colored and beautifully patterned with streaked or mottled motifs. However, Nephrites own a softer color than Jadeite, and their color can range from light to dark green, yellow, black, or white. Moreover, its durable and colorful essence makes it a desirable anniversary gemstone.

13th Anniversary Gem: Citrine

The 13th-anniversary gemstone citrine is a transparent variety of quartz. Thanks to the submicroscopic distribution of colloidal ferric hydroxide impurities, it can attain this charming and vivid yellow-to-orange color. Citrine was also considered Greece’s first golden-yellow gemstone between 300 and 150 BC.
Additionally, it is still popular among younger until now. Its bright color, high transparency, durability, and economical price make it the most frequently purchased yellow-to-orange gem. Finally associated with positivity and optimism, stunning citrine is one of the ideal anniversary gemstones.

14th Anniversary Gemstone: Opal

Compared with other brilliant anniversary gemstones, opals look more unique and magical. It’s a hydrated amorphous form of silica and is one of the most elegant and regal-colored gemstones, loved by royalty for years. Its name originated from the Sanskrit word Upala, which means ‘jewel,’ and later the Greek derivative opállios, which means seeing a color change. Some precious opals could present an iridescence, a pseudo-chromatic optical effect resulting in flashes of colored light from certain minerals. Its fancifully changing colors will light up your marriage and your passion for life.

15th Anniversary: Ruby

The 15th wedding anniversary is quite a significant year that deserves commemoration. The gorgeous and fascinating ruby is the best to interpret this special day. Firstly, it’s a pinkish-red to blood-red colored gemstone, a variety of the mineral corundum. Its name was from the Latin word ruber, meaning “red”— the color of love and passion. The attractive red shade results from the chromium trace element, the more chromium, the stronger the red color.

With the popularity of diamond alternatives, rubies have become increasingly popular in recent years. Ruby rings, pendants, and earrings are gradually appearing in every woman’s jewelry box not only because of their pink hue but also for their hardness, durability, brilliance, and rarity.

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Overview

The July birthstone ruby has been one of the most prevalent gemstones for centuries, alongside sapphires, emeralds, and diamonds. With its pinkish-red hue and complicated nature, this charming gemstone has been appreciated by many jewelers and artists to create gorgeous treasures that endure forever.

Origin of Ruby

Historically, rubies have appeared in various areas, especially in South Asia, the Middle East, and South Africa. But Myanmar has owned a variety of gem-quality rubies over the years. The renowned color is “pigeon’s blood red,” a slightly purplish red with vivid saturation and intense fluorescence.

Benefits and Properties

Ruby, the king of the colored stones, encourages passion, courage, knowledge, and prosperity. People believed that it could not only cultivate loving, nurturing, health, and wealth but also protect the evil and bring spiritual wisdom that shields against psychic illness.  

Differences Between Ruby, Spinel, and Garnet

1. In terms of color, arrange from shades of red. Spinel takes the top spot, with a purplish red color for the most part, and ruby comes second, with a purplish tinge hidden in the red. Lastly is garnet, which appears more with a classic and pure red color.
2. On a Mohs scale for hardness, ruby is the hardest of these three, with a score of 9 only next to the diamond. Spinel has a Mohs scale of 7.5-8, which is softer than ruby but harder than garnet. While the softest garnet is between 6.5-7.5.
3. Most rubies require an enhancement to elevate their clarity, so they often have visible inclusions. On the contrary, very few spinels own inclusions and are always uniquely beautiful. And garnet almost has no inclusions.

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Garnet

Red gemstones easily attract people’s attention. The famous January birthstone, garnet, is one of the fascinating red stones. Its name comes from the Latin word for seed, reflecting its dark red color. In fact, garnets come in a wide range of shades, from classic red to rare green. But in the jewelry market, red garnets are the preferred choice.

Having been used worldwide for centuries and was especially popular during the Victorian age. Garnets create a variety of breathtaking jewelry pieces. One of the oldest well-known garnet jewelry is the necklaces and talismans from Ancient Egyptian tombs and mummies. In many legends, garnets symbolize love and friendship and protect humans from evil.

Ruby

The ruby is the birthstone of July. From the Latin and French words meaning “deep red precious stone.” With its attractive red hue and bright saturation, ruby is one of the corundum mineral species. However, ruby exhibits a more pinkish-red color than garnet due to its internal chromium content. The more chromium there is, the stronger the red color. And this magical element can infuse the precious ruby with a hint of fluorescence.

In jewelry, rubies are one of the most popular traditional jewelry stones. By virtue of their durable nature, rubies have been the wide-used jewelry gemstone for a long time. And compared to a diamond of the same size, a good quality ruby may be more valuable and rarer.

A famous ruby jewelry piece is the Crown Ruby Necklace, one of the precious heirlooms of the British royal family. Prince Albert designed it, and now it belongs to Queen Elizabeth II.

Spinel

Known as “balas rubies,” spinel are isometric oxides of magnesium, iron, and zinc, with traces of aluminum and other elements. Deriving from the Latin word Spinella refers to pointed crystals. It’s allochromatic gems, which means it’s pure and colorless when no trace elements exist. Also, spinel has a series of colors from deep to light pastels. The red variety is the most celebrated.

In ancient times, the spinel was considered a ruby in various famous jewelry by emperors and monarchs. And it was still an underestimated gemstone that served as an affordable and alternative gem of ruby in the jewelry market. The renowned Black Prince’s Ruby is a large, irregular cabochon red spinel set in the cross pattée above the Cullinan II diamond at the front of the Imperial State Crown of the United Kingdom.

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What Is Ruby?

• It refers to corundum with a red color, the main component is Al₂O₃, and the red color comes from chromium (Cr).
• The word Ruby is derived from the Latin word “ruber” which means “red” reflecting the color of the stone.
• Natural rubies mostly come from Asia, Africa, Oceania and America. However, today’s rubies are mainly produced in Mozambique.
• Natural rubies are rare and therefore valuable, but it is not too difficult to synthesize rubies, so industrial rubies are all synthetic.

Lore And Legend

• The ancient book Lapidaire en Vers states that ruby is “the most precious of the twelve stones which God made in all creation”. The Bible also equates ruby with wisdom, and uses it to symbolize the Jewish tribes. The fourth gem in the holy garment worn by Moses’ brother Aaron is a ruby. This gem is engraved with the names of the Jewish ancestors. Since the ancient Jews proclaimed the establishment of the State of Israel, this precious gem has been the most valuable gem in the crown.
• The ancient Greeks believed that bright red rubies melted paraffin wax and left marks. They believed that the ruby contained great power and installed it on buildings to protect them from thunderstorms. The ancient Egyptians thought it was a symbol of the supremacy of Kings.

Symbolism And Significance

• People always associate the hot red ruby with passion and love. For instance, when people see this gemstone, they will think of “stone of love”, beauty, enernity, and loyalty of love.
• Red is always the messenger of beauty, and it is the best guide for sending your wishes to others.
• It is also the stone of Cancer, the stone of 15th and 40th wedding anniversary.

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