THE ULTIMATE BIRTHSTONE GUIDES
Discover the gemstones of your birth month with the Ultimate Birthstone Guides! From January to December, uncover the knowledge of your modern and traditional birthstones that you probably never knew existed.
The Birthstones of July: Ruby and Onyx
Good news for July-born individuals: you have not one but two birthstones! July celebrates both the dazzling Ruby and the enigmatic Onyx. While Ruby is the most recognized for both modern and traditional titles, Onyx holds a timeless charm of its own. In this post, we’ll dive deep into the captivating history of these birthstones, exploring their unique features and sharing fascinating fun facts. Get ready to discover the magic of Ruby and Onyx!
Ruby & Onyx, Chosen Specifically for July
Why Does July Have Two Distinct Birthstones?
Ever wonder why some months have multiple birthstones while others have just one or even three? The reason lies in the distinction between modern and traditional birthstones.
Modern birthstones, the more commonly known variety, were officially designated by the Jewelers of America in the 1950s. These are the gemstones most people recognize today. Traditional birthstones, on the other hand, were widely accepted in the early 20th century and even earlier. However, many of these traditional gems have become rare and less available in today’s market.
As a result, some months feature modern birthstones that differ from their traditional counterparts. For July, this means celebrating both the vibrant Ruby and the mysterious Onyx, each bringing its own unique beauty and history to the table.
Eager to uncover more about the captivating world of birthstones? Dive deeper with our Ultimate Birthstone Guide!
The Radiance of Rubies
Origins & Features of Rubies
For those born in July, the modern birthstone is the magnificent Ruby. The name “ruby” is derived from the Latin word “rubeus,” meaning “red.” Over time, this evolved into “rubinus” in Medieval Latin, “rubi” in Old French, and finally, “ruby” in English.
In Ancient Sanskrit, ruby is called “ratnaraj,” which translates to “king of precious stones.” So, July babies, you can proudly claim that your birthstone is indeed the most precious!
Rubies are one of the four most famous and precious gemstones, standing alongside emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds. Known for their blood-red color, rubies belong to the corundum gem family, which also includes sapphires.
There are no other colors of rubies in the world in existence besides red and pink.
Rubies exist only in shades of red and pink. Their vibrant red hue is due to the presence of chromium. The more chromium in the stone, the redder it appears. In some cases, high chromium levels can give the ruby a deep red color with hints of purple or blue under certain lighting conditions. Ironically, chromium also contributes to the rarity of rubies, as it causes fissures and cracks within the gemstone. This chemical paradox makes high-quality rubies in large sizes extremely rare, driving their value even higher than that of diamonds.
When Ruby Became July’s Official Birthstone
While rubies had long been associated with July in various historical and cultural traditions, their official status as the month’s birthstone wasn’t confirmed until the early 20th century. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers—now known as Jewelers of America—released a standardized list of birthstones, formally designating ruby as July’s official gem.
This list aimed to bring consistency to birthstone assignments across the jewelry industry and cemented ruby’s place as both the traditional and modern birthstone for July. Prior to this formal recognition, rubies were already favored in older birthstone charts for their rich symbolism of love, strength, and protection—qualities that perfectly align with the spirit of summer-born individuals.
The History and Symbolism of Rubies
Cultural Significance: Rubies in Lore and Legend
Delving into the history of rubies, one of the oldest known sources is Myanmar. Other significant sources include Vietnam, India, East Africa, the Middle East, Thailand, and the United States. Each region produces unique varieties of rubies, with five major types being the Burmese ruby, Thai ruby, Mozambique ruby, Madagascar ruby, and Tanzanian ruby, all highly prized in jewelry.
Throughout history, these radiant red gemstones have been associated with good fortune, health, wisdom, and success in love, particularly in Medieval Europe. Some believe rubies possess healing powers, protecting their owners from harm and illness. These powers were thought to include regenerating the physical and spiritual heart, enhancing circulation, and strengthening immunity for both body and mind. While these beliefs are ancient, the ruby remains one of the strongest gemstones, second only to the diamond.
Embrace the rich history and symbolism of rubies, a gemstone that has captivated hearts and minds for centuries.
Buying the Right Pearl For You
When choosing the perfect ruby, keep in mind the Four C’s—Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat—while also considering the gemstone’s unique characteristics that make it one of the most prized in the world. Among these, color takes center stage. The most valuable rubies exhibit a deep, vivid red hue with a hint of blue, often referred to as “pigeon’s blood.” This intense coloration, along with medium to strong saturation and a medium to medium-dark tone, dramatically influences the stone’s desirability and value.
While inclusions are common in rubies, those with minimal visible flaws and fine “silk” can actually enhance the gem’s glow or even produce a star-like effect when properly cut. Opt for a symmetrical cut that enhances both brilliance and color, and remember that larger rubies are considerably rarer and more valuable. Whether heat-treated or natural, rubies with certification and known origins—especially from regions like Myanmar—can offer extra assurance of quality and authenticity.
If you or someone you know was born in July, rubies make a timeless and meaningful choice for birthstone jewelry. Beyond birthdays, rubies are also traditionally associated with the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, symbolizing enduring love and fiery passion. Whether gifted for a milestone celebration or simply to honor a July birth, this vibrant red gemstone is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Essential Tips for Maintaining and Caring for Your Rubies
Understanding Proper Ruby Care
Rubies boast a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making them the hardest of the colored gemstones and the second hardest overall, just behind diamonds. To put this in perspective, quartz, with a hardness of 7-7.5, is present in the dust particles that settle on surfaces in your home, capable of scratching polished furniture and car finishes. Diamonds, at a hardness of 10, are the hardest gemstones, while talc, the softest, can be scratched by a fingernail.
Rubies are incredibly durable and can only be scratched by materials with a higher hardness level, so unless you’re handling diamonds, there’s little need to worry. However, your precious rubies still deserve proper care to keep them looking as brilliant as possible. Clean your rubies using warm water, mild soap, and a very soft brush.
For more on the history and proper care of your rubies, visit our Ultimate Ruby Guide!
Optimal Onyxes
Origins & Features of Onyx
While Ruby is widely recognized as the birthstone for July, some traditions also honor Onyx as the gemstone for this month. From the 15th to the 20th century, Onyx was considered one of the birthstones for July.
The name “onyx” is derived from the Latin word, which itself comes from the Ancient Greek word “onux,” meaning “claw” or “fingernail.”
In modern times, most commercially available black onyx gemstones are color-enhanced through heat and dye to intensify their deep, rich hues.
Onyx is similar to May’s traditional birthstone, the agate. Both are banded varieties from the chalcedony group. Typically, black onyx features a striking black base with contrasting white band patterns that vary between individual stones. There are also red varieties of onyx, known as sardonyx, adding to its unique appeal.
When Onyx Became July’s Official Birthstone
Onyx has a long and storied history as a July birthstone, dating back to the 15th century. It was traditionally associated with the month in various cultures, including Jewish, Roman, and European traditions. For centuries, onyx was widely recognized as July’s designated gemstone, celebrated for its striking appearance and believed metaphysical properties.
However, in 1912, the National Association of Jewelers—now known as Jewelers of America—published a standardized list of birthstones, officially replacing onyx with ruby as the primary birthstone for July in the United States. Despite this shift, onyx has remained an acknowledged alternative or secondary birthstone for the month and continues to be favored by those seeking a bold, modern aesthetic.
Its connection to the zodiac sign Leo, which spans part of July, further cements its symbolic tie to the month. Today, onyx is appreciated not only for its sleek, sophisticated look but also for its reputation as a grounding stone believed to absorb negative energy.
The Rich History and Deep Symbolism of Onyx
Cultural Significance: Onyx in Lore and Legend
This remarkable gemstone can be found in Brazil, India, California, and Uruguay. Onyx is known for its ability to absorb negative energy, with its powers growing stronger as its color deepens. It symbolizes strength, boldness, balance, and self-confidence, making it an ideal stone for those looking to fortify their minds. Cleopatra is said to have worn dark onyx for its protective qualities and powerful symbolism.
In ancient Greek mythology, there is a legend about the goddess Venus. While she slept, her son Eros (also known as Cupid) clipped her fingernails and scattered them across the Indus River. Since no heavenly body part can die, the clippings transformed into stone, eventually becoming known as onyx.
Buying the Right Onyx For You
When selecting the perfect onyx, it’s important to evaluate the same core elements used for other gemstones—Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat—while also paying close attention to onyx’s distinctive traits. Unlike many transparent gems, onyx is typically opaque, and its value is influenced by the richness and uniformity of its color. For solid black onyx, a deep, even tone with a smooth, polished surface is most desirable.
In the case of banded onyx, the clarity and sharp contrast of the bands add visual interest and enhance the stone’s appeal. Though onyx is often cut into various shapes, cabochons are especially popular, as they highlight the stone’s natural luster. Keep in mind that most black onyx on the market is color-enhanced—a common and accepted practice that doesn’t detract from its quality. Whether used as a bold centerpiece or an accent stone, a well-chosen onyx adds timeless elegance to any jewelry collection.
If you or someone you know was born in July, onyx is a bold and meaningful alternative to the traditional ruby birthstone. As the gemstone associated with the 7th wedding anniversary, onyx symbolizes strength, protection, and the enduring foundation of a relationship. Its striking black hue—or classic black-and-white banding—is often seen as a reflection of the balance and harmony between two partners, making it a thoughtful and symbolic gift for celebrating love and resilience.
Expert Tips for Maintaining and Caring for Your Onyx
Understanding Proper Onyx Care
Onyx has a hardness of 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which is relatively lower compared to gemstones like ruby. This makes onyx an excellent choice for intricate carvings.
Caring for onyx gemstones and jewelry is simple yet requires some specific precautions. To clean your onyx, use a soft cloth to gently wipe away any dirt. However, avoid soaking or wetting your onyx in water, as this stone is highly porous and absorbs liquids easily. Instead, use a lightly moistened cloth for cleaning.
Remember, minerals can only be scratched by those with a higher hardness level. Quartz, with a hardness of 7-7.5, is present in dust particles, which can settle on surfaces and potentially scratch your onyx. These particles are also capable of removing polish from furniture and the finish from cars. Therefore, handle your onyx jewelry with care to prevent scratches from everyday dust and dirt.
With proper care, your onyx jewelry will remain a stunning and cherished piece, perfect for celebrating your July birthstone.
Originally Published July 7, 2022, Updated and Expanded June 23rd, 2025
Bring Back the Brilliance: Restore Your Lost Birthstone Treasure
Thinking about bringing a cherished birthstone piece back to life? You’re not just replacing a gem, you’re rekindling precious memories.
Imagine the joy of gifting (or gifting yourself!) a fully restored Ruby or Onyx jewel, sparkling like new. No more loose stones or scratches dimming its fire. Here at My Jewelry Repair, we specialize in breathing new life into your treasured pieces.
Our team of expert gemologists meticulously sources the perfect gem to match your jewelry’s unique character. We understand that every gemstone holds a story, and we treat yours with the utmost care.
Don’t let a missing stone dim the brilliance of your memories. Visit our Gemstone Replacement Services page today and discover how we can restore your Ruby or Onyx to its former glory. Let the sparkle tell your story once again!
Resources:
- Ruby Birthstone Information: https://www.americangemsociety.org/
- Ruby Birthstone Information: https://www.gia.edu/
- July Birthstone Information: https://www.gemsociety.org/
- Onyx Birthstone Information: https://www.angara.com/blog/july-birthstone/
- Blog outline and revising assisted by AI resources such as Google Gemini.
Have Questions?
The Ultimate Birthstone Guide
“If you were born in July, your month’s birthstones are Ruby and Onyx.
If you didn’t already know, there are some months that have multiple birthstones, whereas some only have one. Traditional birthstones are gemstones that were most commonly associated with its respective month in the early 20th century and even beyond, with Ancient Greek and Roman philosophers associating these gemstones with the star signs. Those that are more commonly known in this day and age are the modern birthstones, which were officially named by the Jewelers of America in the 1950’s.
If you would like to learn more about birthstones in general, visit our Ultimate Birthstone Guide!“
Clean & Polish Services
“A basic clean, polish, and inspection is part of the routine care and maintenance needed to keep your jewelry looking like new. The inspection process includes looking for loose stones, bent prongs, and any damage to the metal or stones that need to be repaired.”
Stone Setting Repair
“A stone setting repair can be a simple re-tipping of a worn prong (which is considered routine care and maintenance) or the complete rebuilding/replacing of a damaged prong. In the case of severe damage, the entire head of the ring may need to be replaced.
Regardless of whether or not the prongs are compromised due to normal wear and tear or a result of accidental damage, we can provide the routine care and maintenance in order to ensure you do not lose a stone in your setting.”
Gemstone Replacement Services
“The process of a Gemstone Replacement is simple enough, yet requires trained eyes to be able to make a flawless switch. We aim to leave no trace of our work, which means not only will your setting be perfected, but the gemstone we choose will complete your jewelry piece effortlessly.”
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