The brilliant Ruby is given to those who are born in July. Next to the diamond, it is the second hardest material on Earth. The wearer will be found in good luck and have strong protection. It stands for courage, integrity, happiness and devotion. Ruby is derived from “ruber” in Latin, meaning red, the traditional more sought after color of this precious stone.

The ruby can be found in a variety of shades form deep strawberry to even violet. The amount of aluminum oxide it contains will dictate its shade. Today, the color of many rubies is caused by man-made heat treatments.

The mining of rubies dates back to over 2,500 years ago. There are ruby mines in Thailand, South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya, Napal, Vietnam and India, where it is believed that if you made an offering of rubies to Lord Krishna, you would be reincarnated as an emperor.

According to the Gregorian calendar, also known as the Western calendar, there are specific gemstones have been designated to symbolize our birth-month. Referred to as birthstones, each one aligns with the energy of its given month and the season of where it falls within a year. According to a Jewish historian, Josephus, he claimed that the breastplate of Aaron was inlaid twelve stones. Each of these stones had a connection with the twelve months of the year. Each precious stone aligns with the season, mental and spiritual energies. They are much sought after for their legends of magical and healing powers.

The Hindus regard the ruby at the “Lord of Gems”. In biblical terms, it is a symbol of fire, passion, love, power and importance. For some owners it may bestow upon them fame, virtue, and a commanding power, however, it is discouraged from women, as regular use will destroy body luster. Red is a powerful color, so the ruby has been used for treating blood illnesses and utilized to increase thought patterns, eliminate depression, cures fevers, and gout. For these uses, it is recommended to be worn on the ring finger. It is given as a gift to bring its owner success and prosperity, and will enable one to live a long life. Ruby is one of the family in navagraha stones, which are stones representing the nine planets and have a cosmic influence on every inhabitant. It represents the sun and is seen as the stone closest related to our souls.

Other Interesting facts about the July Birthstone Ruby:

-Whether ruby is in the same family as the sapphire

-In India, a ruby ring is worn for astrological reasons

-Ruby is often preferred to the diamond as an engagement ring, due to its rich color and symbolism

-Ninety percent of rubies in the market today have been heat treated to enhance their quality

-To bring good fortune, it should be worn on the left hand

-Legend states that only if it is worn by its rightful owner, will it bring about positive powers

Other July Symbols:

July Birth Flower:

Water Lily and the Larkspur. The water lily is given through “purity of heart”, and the larkspur inspires levity and lightness.

July Birth Tree:

The Elm tree, a symbol of strength of will and intuition

Famous People Born in July:

Arnold Schwarzenegger- July 30, 1947

Will Smith- July 4, 1981

Sylvester Stallone- July 6, 1946

Donald Sutherland- July 17, 1935

Hillary Swank- July 30, 1974

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