RED RUBY RED

The birthstone for the month of July is the Ruby.  Ruby is a red corundum and is related to sapphire.  They are one of the hardest stones around, they are a 9 on the Mohs hardness scale.  The most desired ruby color is known as "pigeon blood" red.  It is a deep dark red color.  The most desired ruby red color can command the highest prices compared to all other colored gems.

HISTORY OF THE RUBY

Early cultures often associated the red color of a ruby with blood.  This gave the ruby great importance amongst all gemstones.  Rubies are mentioned four times in the bible.  Rubies are also associated with wisdom.  In Burma, warriors believe that rubies make them invincible.  

FROM MINE TO GEMSTONE

Tons of earth and hours of labor are required to bring a ruby from the ground.  While in the earth trace elements know as Chromium takes Corundum and turns it into a ruby.