A Guide for the July Birthstone: How to Choose the Perfect Ruby
When we think of rubies, we think of elegance, romance, and that classic, deep red. This July birthstone has captivated hearts and minds for centuries, and here at Jason Ree, we love working with the beautiful stone. If you’re buying a ruby jewellery piece for a friend, family member, or partner, we know that the piece will hold great beauty and sentimental value for years to come.
In this July birthstone guide, we will explore everything you need to know about rubies, from their rich history to practical tips on choosing the ideal ruby for your jewellery.
Ruby Red: A Long History
Rubies, often referred to as the "king of gemstones," have been cherished throughout history for their stunning red hue and mystical allure. Rubies get their name from the Latin word “ruber”, which means red - a likely choice given their vibrant hue! Believed to have protective powers, ancient cultures used to own rubies in the hope that they’d bring prosperity and fortune to their owners and families.
In fact, in ancient India, rubies were considered the most valuable of all gemstones, showing their importance to society. Europeans believed that the deep red of rubies was intrinsically linked with love, passion, and courage, meaning they were incredibly popular as engagement rings and gifts for romantic partners. This symbolism has continued into the present day; the love and passion associated with rubies are still common, as well as their incredible beauty.
The Characteristics of High-Quality Ruby Jewellery
At Jason Ree, we understand how to pick rubies with a difference. However, for buyers, we know that it’s hard to know where to start when purchasing a gemstone. We believe that with any jewellery purchase, it is essential to consider the Four Cs: Colour, Clarity, Cut, and Carat weight. These factors determine the overall quality and value of the gemstone, leading you to have a piece that will be passed down for generations.
- Colour: The finest and most valuable rubies have a vibrant, deep red hue known as "pigeon's blood." However, rubies can also range from pinkish-red to orangey-red, and we love to work with all variants and hues. When choosing a ruby, we always recommend going with a colour that speaks to you: let your personality shine through the ruby.
- Clarity: Like all gemstones, rubies can have natural inclusions or imperfections. The clarity of a ruby refers to the presence of these inclusions. While some inclusions are expected and can add character to the gemstone, we recommend and will always choose a ruby with minimal visible inclusions to ensure its brilliance.
- Cut: The cut of a ruby influences its overall appearance and brilliance. A well-cut ruby will reflect light beautifully, enhancing its overall colour. Common cuts for rubies include oval, round, cushion, and emerald cuts. The choice of cut often depends on personal preference and the intended design of the jewellery piece.
- Carat: Carat measures the size of the ruby. Larger rubies are rarer and more valuable, but the ideal size depends on your budget and the intended use of the gemstone. We will work with you to help select your perfect ruby, ensuring we balance size with quality to find a gemstone that suits your needs.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Ruby Piece
At Jason Ree, we pride ourselves on selecting the highest quality jewellery and working with our customers on bespoke pieces to create jewellery that is unique and suited to their needs and budget. Jason Ree himself works on every single piece within our studio and is an expert at selecting the best quality gemstones. From ruby earring studs to rings and necklaces, Jason loves to create pieces that exhibit uniqueness and beauty. That being said, here’s our advice for selecting the best ruby jewellery piece for you:
- Define Your Budget: Before you start shopping, determine your budget. Rubies can vary significantly in price based on their quality and size. Knowing your budget will help you narrow down your options and find a ruby that is within your price range.
- Consider the Setting: The setting of the ruby plays a crucial role in its overall appearance. Common settings for rubies include prong, bezel, and halo settings. Prong settings allow maximum light to enter the gemstone, enhancing its brilliance, while bezel settings offer a more secure and modern look. Halo settings, which feature a ring of smaller diamonds surrounding the ruby, can add extra sparkle and make the gemstone appear larger.
- Choose a Design That Reflects Your Style: Rubies are versatile gemstones that can be incorporated into various jewellery designs. From classic to vintage, or more contemporary styles, there's a ruby piece that’ll speak to your taste. If it’s a gift, consider what style the other person has and go from there.
- Quality Matters: As we mentioned earlier, we always recommend you consider the Four Cs when evaluating the quality of a ruby. At Jason Ree, we pick only the best quality rubies, and each gemstone has a certificate of authenticity, so you can have peace of mind with every purchase.
Caring for Your Ruby Jewellery
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your ruby jewellery regularly using a mild soap and warm water solution. Gently scrub the gemstone with a soft toothbrush to remove dirt and oils. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the ruby and its setting.
- Store Safely: Store your ruby jewellery in a soft cloth or padded box to prevent scratches and damage. Keep it separate from other gemstones to avoid abrasion.
- Avoid Extreme Conditions: While rubies are durable, they can still be affected by extreme heat or sudden temperature changes. Remove your ruby jewellery when engaging in activities that expose it to harsh conditions, such as swimming, gardening, the gym or using household cleaners.
- Regular Inspections: Have your ruby jewellery inspected periodically to check for loose settings or damage. Regular maintenance ensures that your pieces remain secure and beautiful.
At Jason Ree, we have a passion for working with all types of gemstones. Jason especially enjoys collaborating with clients to create unique gifts and artisan jewellery, which is available to buy today and wear tomorrow. For your July friend, family member, or partner, a ruby makes the perfect piece. Discover our ready-to-wear pieces.