Birthstones · July
The July Birthstone: Ruby
The July birthstone is ruby — the 'king of gems', whose vivid red has signified passion and power for centuries. Here is what it means, what separates a fine ruby from an ordinary one, and where to find antique ruby jewellery.
- Ruby is the birthstone for July and the gem of the 40th wedding anniversary.
- It is the red variety of corundum — the same mineral as sapphire — coloured by chromium.
- Value is led by colour ('pigeon's blood' red is finest), then clarity, cut and carat (ct) weight; Burmese origin and no heat treatment command a premium.
- Explore antique ruby jewellery and ruby engagement rings at Mozeris.
What is the July birthstone?
The July birthstone is the ruby, the red variety of the mineral corundum — making it the sister stone of sapphire. Its colour comes from chromium, and the most prized stones show a vivid, slightly purplish red known in the trade as 'pigeon's blood'.
Ruby is also the gem traditionally given for a 40th wedding anniversary. With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, it has worn beautifully in antique jewellery handed down across generations.
Meaning & history
Long called the 'king of gems', ruby has symbolised passion, vitality and protection across many cultures. It was believed to guard the wearer and to bring success in love. In the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco periods, fine Burmese rubies were set with diamonds in some of the most striking jewellery ever made.
You will find that craftsmanship across our Victorian and Edwardian jewellery collections.
What gives Ruby its value
Like sapphire, a ruby is judged on more than weight, and colour is decisive — a fine red can outvalue a much larger, duller stone.
| Factor | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Colour | A vivid, pure red — 'pigeon's blood' — is most prized. Too dark, brownish or pink reduces value. |
| Clarity | Eye-clean stones command more; fine silk can be acceptable, heavy inclusions lower value. |
| Cut | A good cut maximises the red and the stone's life; antique cuts add character. |
| Carat (ct) | Fine rubies above a few carats are very rare and rise steeply in price. |
| Origin & treatment | Classic Burmese (Mogok) origin and unheated stones command a strong premium. |
The antique premium
With antique ruby jewellery the mount matters as much as the stone. Original Victorian, Edwardian or Art Deco craftsmanship, intact hallmarks and a period-correct setting can lift a piece well above the value of the gem alone.
Explore Antique Ruby Jewellery
A curated collection of antique and vintage ruby rings, necklaces and earrings.
Antique Ruby jewellery at Mozeris
Ruby suits the boldest and the most delicate antique jewellery alike. Across our collection you will find it in:
- Ruby engagement rings — clusters, three-stone and solitaire designs.
- Ruby necklaces, pendants and bracelets — Victorian through to mid-century.
- Brooches and earrings set with red rubies and diamonds.
Prefer to browse more widely? See our full antique gemstone jewellery and antique rings collections.
Choosing & styling
Ruby glows against warm yellow gold and sparkles when framed by diamonds in platinum. A ruby cluster or three-stone ring is a romantic everyday piece, while ruby earrings or a pendant add a note of colour to evening dress.
For a period look, pair ruby with the geometry of Art Deco or the romance of Victorian design.
Frequently asked questions
The July birthstone is ruby, the red variety of the mineral corundum, coloured by chromium.
Ruby symbolises passion, vitality and protection, and has long been called the 'king of gems'.
Colour is decisive — vivid 'pigeon's blood' red is finest — followed by clarity, cut and carat (ct) weight. Burmese origin and unheated stones command a premium.
Yes. We offer a curated collection of antique and vintage ruby engagement rings, necklaces, brooches and earrings. Browse online and make an enquiry to view or purchase.
July's Royal Red
Discover antique and vintage ruby jewellery, chosen for colour, character and craftsmanship.