Birthstone Gems

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July Birthstone - Ruby

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Ruby fact file

Crystal Structure: hexagonal
Chemical Composition: corundum - aluminum oxide (Al2O3)
Hardness: 9 MOHS

Refractive Index: 1.762 to 1.77
Colors: shades of red, orange- red, or purple red

Ruby is the July birthstone. This red colored corundum was considered to have many magical powers.

Ruby sometimes displays a three-ray, six-point star. This effect, called asterism, is caused by light reflecting off tiny rutile needles, called "silk," which are oriented along the crystal faces.Fine rubies are probably among the world's rarest gems

Name

Ruby took its name from rubrum, which is Latin for red.

Related Pages:

Ruby Properties
Know more about the physical and chemical properties of Ruby such as composition, color etc.
Ruby History and Geography
Some interesting facts about Ruby such as where it is found, stories from history and mythology, and its healing properties.
Buying and Caring for Ruby Jewelry
Tips for Buying Ruby Jewelry and taking care of Ruby Jewelry