The Significance of July’s Birthstone: The Ruby
The birthstone for the month of July is the captivating ruby. Unlike the previous month’s pearl, which exudes elegance and calmness, rubies symbolize energy, action, and passion. This fiery gemstone is believed to inspire vitality and drive, making it the perfect stone to carry you through the month and beyond.
Properties of the July Birthstone: The Energetic Ruby
– **Birthstone Color:** Red
– **Chakra:** Heart and Root Chakras
– **Origin:** Varied
Rubies are composed of the mineral corundum and are closely related to sapphires, the birthstone for September. The vibrant red hue of rubies, derived from the mineral chromium, distinguishes them from sapphires, which come in a variety of colors other than red. Known for their stunning beauty, rubies are among the most coveted gemstones, prized alongside sapphires, emeralds, and diamonds. With a Mohs hardness score just below that of diamonds, rubies are not only beautiful but also durable. These precious gemstones can be found in various parts of the world, including Vietnam, Thailand, Africa, and the United States, with the finest rubies originating from India and Burma (Myanmar).
Birthstone Meaning and Symbolism of Ruby
Throughout history, rubies have been associated with protection and prosperity. In ancient China and Burma, warriors wore rubies as a form of protection, while in Hindu culture, rubies were considered the “king of gemstones,” believed to bestow imperial status in the next life to those who offered them to the god Krishna. Symbolizing passion and vitality, rubies are often linked to the life force, represented by the color red that mirrors our blood and beating hearts.
According to crystal healers and Reiki masters, rubies can help individuals tap into their creative energy, inspiring new projects and ways of being in the world. These vibrant gemstones activate the life force within, propelling individuals forward and reigniting their passion and drive. Whether you’re feeling stuck in a rut or lacking motivation, rubies can help release stagnant energy and spark new solutions.
In astrology, rubies are associated with the zodiac signs Cancer and Leo, offering unique benefits to individuals born under these signs. For Cancerians, rubies can enhance their maternal instincts, grounding them in self-care and nurturing. As for Leos, rubies ignite their creative energy, helping them express their truth and shine brightly. While rubies are aligned with specific zodiac signs, anyone can harness their energizing powers, regardless of their birth month or astrological sign.
Crystal healers also note that rubies are connected to the root chakra, promoting stability and security, and the heart chakra, awakening passion and removing blockages that hinder personal growth.
Other July Birthstones
While rubies are considered the primary birthstone for July, traditionally, the stone onyx was associated with the month. Onyx is a grounding stone that helps individuals stay present, ward off negative energy, and establish healthy boundaries.
Understanding Birthstones
Birthstones are gemstones that correspond to a person’s birth month or zodiac sign. The tradition of wearing a specific gemstone each month dates back to biblical times, with origins in Eastern and Western cultures. These gemstones are believed to possess unique meanings and properties that can influence and enhance the wearer’s life. Whether you’re drawn to the fiery energy of rubies or the calming presence of pearls, birthstones serve as powerful symbols of personal identity and connection to the universe. The tradition of linking specific gems to deities, celestial bodies, and days of the week dates back to the fifth century Hindu text, The Ratna Pariksha. In this ancient text, different gems were associated with different entities and were believed to possess special powers and properties. Vedic astrologers also recommended specific gems to individuals based on their astrological birth chart, believing that wearing these gems could bring luck, good health, and prosperity.
Fast forward to 1912, when the American Council Association of Jewelers (now known as the Jewelers of America) created a standardized list of birthstones in the United States. This list was later updated by the Jewelry Industry Council of America and The American Gem Trade Association to include new types of birthstones for each month of the year, catering to modern preferences and trends.
If you’re interested in choosing a crystal that aligns with your birth month, here’s a quick guide to the birthstones for each month:
– January: Garnet
– February: Amethyst
– March: Aquamarine or Bloodstone
– April: Diamond
– May: Emerald
– June: Pearl or Alexandrite
– July: Ruby or Onyx
– August: Peridot or Spinel
– September: Sapphire
– October: Opal or Tourmaline
– November: Topaz or Citrine
– December: Turquoise or Tanzanite
For those born in July, the birthstone is the vibrant red ruby or, traditionally, the sleek black onyx. The birth flower of July is the larkspur or delphinium, symbolizing positivity and lightheartedness.
The red ruby is believed to be an energetic stone that inspires action, passion, and vitality. On the other hand, the traditional July birthstone, onyx, is a grounding stone that provides protection against negative energy and promotes stability and strength.
In conclusion, whether you believe in the mystical powers of gemstones or simply appreciate their beauty, birthstones offer a unique way to connect with your birth month and add a touch of personal significance to your jewelry collection. Explore the world of birthstones and discover the gem that resonates with you the most.
