July Birthstone: Ruby

About Ruby: the July Birthstone

The July birthstone is ruby, the red variety of the mineral corundum. Corundum forms in many colours, and it earns the name ruby when trace chromium turns it red. The most prized colour is a vivid red with a slight blue undertone, which the trade calls pigeon’s blood.

Ruby rates 9 on the Mohs scale, second only to diamond, so it resists scratching and suits a ring worn every day. Hardness is not the same as toughness, though. A sharp knock can still chip a faceted edge, which is why the setting matters most on a ring.

Most natural rubies are heat treated to improve colour and clarity, a long-standing and widely accepted trade practice. Some rubies are also fracture filled, which is a lower grade of treatment, and an untreated ruby with strong colour is rare and priced well above a heated one. Ask about a stone’s treatment before you buy.

Ruby looks warmest in yellow or rose gold. White gold or platinum gives a cooler, more contrasted look, especially with diamond accents in a halo or pavé setting. On a ring, a bezel or a low prong setting protects the stone’s edges. A pendant sees far less knocking, so it takes almost any style.

Why buy ruby from ATL Luxury Jewelry?

ATL Luxury Jewelry has served customers from its Snellville showroom since 2008 and holds 300+ five-star Google reviews. Ruby designs in our catalog are made to order, and cleaning, inspection and prong tightening are free in store. Engraving is free at purchase.

If you want a ruby set in a design you do not see here, we design custom pieces with you in the showroom at 1905 Scenic Hwy N Ste 230, Snellville, GA 30078. Book a design consultation online or call (704) 684-7530.