The birthstone for the month of July is the ruby. It belongs to the Corundum family of gemstones, which also includes sapphires. The coloring of the ruby can range from an almost pink to deep, blood red. However, the deeper and darker the color of the ruby is, the more desirable it is considered to be. Most rubies have a small amount of inclusions in the stone. These inclusions can be removed through heat treating processes, but there are many individuals who enjoy the fluorescent quality that these inclusions provide the stone. During the Middle Ages, the ruby was thought to guard an individual against evil thoughts, lust, and discord. It was also thought to bring good health to the wearer and to cure one of bleeding disorders.

When it comes to gifts for women, the ruby is almost exclusively featured in jewelry, due to the rarity of quality gems. Rubies that are set in earrings are almost always featured as a solitaire stone. In necklaces, the ruby is also often featured as a single pendant; however, the design of the jewelry may also feature diamonds, which are a common accent stone for rubies. Small rubies may be featured in rings. However, rubies that have a large carat size can become somewhat fragile when they placed into a ring setting. Most pieces of jewelry feature rubies placed in settings of white gold, titanium, and platinum. The silver appearance of these precious metals is thought, by most jewelers, to be the best materials for showcasing a ruby's brilliance. Although, it is possible for an individual to find ruby jewelry that is set in gold.

The term "ruby" is often used to describe the red coloring that an object possesses. An individual might hear of a vase or other item described as "ruby". However, as aforementioned, the rarity of rubies often prevents it from being used as a decorative feature for simple items. Because it is so expensive, rubies do not make ideal presents for small children. For a more exotic gift idea, a couple could take a trip together to on of the only ruby mines located in the United States in Cherokee, North Carolina. Open to the public seven days a week, the mine allows individuals to undertake their own, unique gem hunting experience.

By: Blair Cooper

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