Ruby is the accepted birthstone for July. It is also the accepted anniversary gemstone for the 15th and 40th years of marriage. Ruby is known as the "Lord of the Gems" because of its rarity and beauty. It exists as a true color red. The finest color is vivid, almost pure spectral red with very faint undertone of blue.
The highest quality rubies were said to protect their owners from all kinds of misfortune. A fine ruby assured the owner he would live in harmony with his neighbors. It would protect his stature in life, his home and land. It's protective powers were intensified when set in jewelry and worn on the left side.
As part of the customary fashioning process, most rubies are heated to permanently improve their color and appearance. As with all gemstones, care should be taken to protect it from scratches and sharp blows.
Ruby is found in Burma, Thailand, Kenya, Tanzania,
Cambodia, Sri Lanka, India and Vietnam.
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