July's Birthstone: Why the Ruby Has Captivated Collectors for Centuries

The King of Precious Stones

With its rich crimson glow, the July birthstone has symbolised love, courage and prosperity for more than 2,000 years, appearing everywhere from ancient Sanskrit texts and Biblical writings to the crowns and jewellery collections of monarchs around the world. The name ruby comes from the Latin ruber, meaning 'red', while in ancient India it was known as Ratnaraj, translated to ‘King of Precious Stones’. Warriors believed rubies offered protection in battle, while rulers wore them as symbols of wealth, power and vitality. For centuries, the world's finest examples have come from Myanmar's legendary Mogok Valley, where the vivid, intensely saturated red known as 'pigeon's blood' became the benchmark by which all other rubies are judged.

A Gemstone to Treasure

Part of the ruby's enduring appeal lies in its remarkable colour. Trace amounts of chromium give the gemstone both its fiery red hue and the subtle fluorescence that makes fine stones appear to glow from within. Measuring 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, second only to diamond, ruby is also one of the most durable gemstones, making it ideal for jewellery intended to be worn and enjoyed for generations.

This timeless appeal is beautifully reflected in several ruby-set jewels featured in our forthcoming Jewellery, Silver & Watches auction.

Among the highlights is Lot 226, a classic ruby and diamond cluster ring, where an oval faceted ruby is framed by brilliant-cut diamonds.

Equally elegant is Lot 197, a pair of French ruby and diamond drop earrings, whose calibre-cut rubies and old-cut diamonds showcase the refined craftsmanship for which French jewellery is renowned.

Ruby has long been associated with love and devotion, making Lot 183, a charming mid-century ruby and diamond 'love bird' brooch, particularly fitting. The affectionate pair, perched together with ruby-set details and sparkling diamond accents, perfectly captures the gemstone's enduring romantic symbolism.

Ruby Through the Ages

It is no secret that Victorian jewellers conveyed meaning through gemstones. Lot 236, a graceful diamond and ruby crescent brooch, combines two enduring symbols: the crescent moon, representing hope and new beginnings, and the ruby, long associated with passion and prosperity.

Alongside it, Lot 237, a Victorian horseshoe brooch set with graduating rubies and old-cut diamonds, unites one of history's best-known lucky motifs with one of its most treasured gemstones.

Natural rubies remain among the rarest and most valuable coloured gemstones, with exceptional examples regularly achieving remarkable prices at auction. Yet their enduring appeal lies in more than rarity alone. Their vivid colour, fascinating history and timeless elegance continue to captivate collectors as much today as they did centuries ago.

As we celebrate July's birthstone, these beautiful ruby-set jewels offer the perfect opportunity to appreciate its enduring allure. We invite you to visit our public viewing, opening next week, to see these exceptional pieces in person ahead of our forthcoming Jewellery, Silver & Watches auction on Wednesday 22^nd July