July Birthstone - Ruby

Rubies are a symbol of wealth and nobility, which may be why we see so many members of royal families adorned with rubies in their crowns and jewelry. Rubies are the red variety of the mineral corundum, all other gem quality corundum are called sapphire, which is why color is so important when it comes to this gorgeous gemstone. The most sought after color by collectors worldwide is a deep red sometimes with a hint of purple, called “pigeon’s blood” in the trade. The color Pigeon Blood Ruby red is not associated with the hue of a bird’s blood but rather the color of a white pigeon’s eye.

Rubies are a symbol of wealth and nobility, which may be why we see so many members of royal families adorned with rubies in their crowns and jewelry. Rubies are the red variety of the mineral corundum, all other gem quality corundum are called sapphire, which is why color is so important when it comes to this gorgeous gemstone. The most sought after color by collectors worldwide is a deep red sometimes with a hint of purple, called “pigeon’s blood” in the trade. The color Pigeon Blood Ruby red is not associated with the hue of a bird’s blood but rather the color of a white pigeon’s eye.

Queen Elizabeth II wears some of the most famous rubies. In 1973, the Queen ordered this Burmese ruby tiara from Garrard. The tiara is set with 96 rubies that were gifted to the Queen by the people of Burma as a wedding present. 

Another famous ruby piece was worn by Hollywood royalty, Elizabeth Taylor. Her ruby and diamond necklace was designed by Cartier as a gift from Mike Todd, her husband at the time. In December 2011, her necklace was auctioned at Christie’s for $115,932,000. It became one of the most valuable jewelry auctions in history, and the proceeds went to charity. 

If you would like to feel like royalty or celebrate your birth month, come look at our selection of ruby jewelry or design your own piece fit for a queen. On The Rocks Jewelry, we will be happy to help you find your next ruby treasure. 

Another famous ruby piece was worn by Hollywood royalty, Elizabeth Taylor. Her ruby and diamond necklace was designed by Cartier as a gift from Mike Todd, her husband at the time. In December 2011, her necklace was auctioned at Christie’s for $115,932,000. It became one of the most valuable jewelry auctions in history, and the proceeds went to charity. 

If you would like to feel like royalty or celebrate your birth month, come look at our selection of ruby jewelry or design your own piece fit for a queen. On The Rocks Jewelry, we will be happy to help you find your next ruby treasure.