Few gemstones command attention quite like the ruby. With its rich red colour and centuries of history, it's easy to see why ruby has remained one of the world's most coveted gemstones. As July's birthstone, it represents passion, vitality, and love, making it a meaningful choice for birthdays, anniversaries, and life's most significant milestones.
The name ruby comes from the Latin word ruber, meaning red, and while all rubies belong to the corundum family of minerals, it is the presence of chromium that gives them their distinctive colour. From vivid crimson to deeper raspberry tones, no two rubies are exactly alike.
For thousands of years, rubies have been associated with strength, protection, and prosperity. Ancient cultures believed the gemstone contained an eternal flame, one that could never be extinguished. In India, rubies were known as the "King of Precious Stones" and were prized above nearly every other gem. Across Europe and Asia, royalty adorned themselves with rubies as symbols of wealth, influence, and power.
Speaking of protection, rubies were also believed to guard their wearers against disaster and disease. Warriors carried ruby-encrusted weapons and armour into battle, convinced the gemstone would offer protection, courage, and even victory. These beliefs helped cement ruby's reputation as a stone of strength and resilience, symbolism that continues to surround the gemstone today.
Today, ruby remains deeply connected to matters of the heart. Its vibrant colour has long made it a symbol of love, courage, and devotion. It is also the traditional gemstone given to celebrate a 40th wedding anniversary, representing a bond that has grown stronger with time.
Beyond its symbolism, ruby is also prized for its durability. Ranking 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, second only to diamond, it is exceptionally well suited for everyday wear. Whether set in an engagement ring, pendant, earrings, or a treasured family heirloom, a ruby is a gemstone designed to be worn and enjoyed for generations.
While many people picture rubies as a deep, classic red, the gemstone occurs in a range of shades and intensities. Some stones display bright, vivid red tones, while others lean slightly pink or purplish. The most sought-after examples possess a rich, saturated colour that seems to glow from within.
Whether you're celebrating a July birthday, marking a special occasion, or simply drawn to its unmistakable beauty, ruby is a gemstone that never goes unnoticed. Bold, expressive, and steeped in history, it remains one of the most captivating gems in the jewellery world.
Looking for the perfect ruby piece or considering a custom design? Our team would be happy to help you find a stone that tells your story.



