July's birthstone is the ruby — the king of precious gemstones, prized for its intense red colour and exceptional hardness. Fine rubies are rarer and often more valuable than diamonds.
Gemstone
Ruby
Colour
Red — from pinkish-red to deep blood-red
Hardness
9 Mohs
Symbolism
Passion, protection, and vitality
The ruby is a variety of corundum (the same mineral as sapphire), with its red colour caused by traces of chromium. The most sought-after colour is "pigeon's blood" — a vivid, slightly bluish red with strong fluorescence that makes the stone glow in daylight.
Rubies have been revered across cultures: ancient Hindus called them "ratnaraj" (king of gems), Burmese warriors believed rubies made them invincible in battle, and European royalty prized them above all other stones.
At 9 on the Mohs scale, ruby is the second hardest natural gemstone after diamond, making it exceptionally durable for everyday jewellery. Fine-quality rubies above 2 carats are extraordinarily rare and can command prices exceeding those of equivalent-sized diamonds.
Rubies look stunning in both yellow gold (classic and regal) and platinum (modern and striking). Their exceptional hardness makes them excellent for engagement rings and statement pieces. Visit our Hatton Garden showroom to view rubies in person.
The July birthstone is the ruby — a precious gemstone from the corundum family, famed for its intense red colour. Rubies symbolise passion, protection, and vitality, and are the second hardest natural gemstone after diamond.
Fine rubies can be more expensive than diamonds. A top-quality "pigeon's blood" ruby above 2 carats is extraordinarily rare and can sell for more per carat than a comparable diamond. However, commercial-grade rubies are more affordable.
Absolutely — rubies are excellent for engagement rings. At 9 Mohs they are nearly as hard as diamond and extremely durable for daily wear. Ruby engagement rings have a long royal history and offer a distinctive alternative to diamonds.