July Birthstone: Ruby

The July birthstone is the ruby. Rubies are known for their vibrant red color and anyone who wears them is sure to make a bold statement. A fun ruby ring or necklace is a great birthstone gift for a loved one who was born in this month. Don’t forget to write them a special note to accompany the gift and remind them how special they are to you!

Ruby Symbolism

July’s birthstone is the ruby, which is known as the “king of gems.” It is said to be the most desirable stone and is valued because of its bright red color (although rare transparent versions of these exist as well). Rubies were discovered over 2,000 years ago and traditionally are said to have protective powers. Remember Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz?  In fact, it was her ruby slippers that protected her from evil forces!

What do rubies represent? Rubies represent courage, energy and passion. They are the symbol for powerful feelings and are said to promote self-confidence. In modern times, the ruby mostly represents passion and love. A ruby is stimulating to the heart and was once used as the perfect wedding stone.

Cancer and Leo Traits

Astrological signs for July are the Cancer (June 22 – July 22) and Leo (July 23 – August 21).

Cancers are guided by emotion and the heart. Cancers are loyal, sympathetic and very creative. But be wary about speaking badly of a Cancer’s family member or revealing personal information. This is one of Cancer’s pet peeves.

• A Cancer woman is highly intuitive and very passionate. She is also very nurturing and sensitive to the needs of others.
• A Cancer man is turned off by someone who is highly sensitive. He will seek a strong and caring partner. He is often very shy, but extremely polite.

Leos posses a very high self-esteem. They are generous and charming. You’ll never really wonder what they are thinking because when it comes to feelings, they are pretty straightforward. Though a bit possessive, Leos only want the same loyalty in return.

• A Leo woman is self-confident, fearless, powerful and likes to be complimented. However, they are very sensitive and their feelings are easily hurt. Leo women have a flair for fashion and aren’t afraid to express themselves.
• A Leo man is ambitious and likes to be a leader. Often times he is seen as a motivator and is outgoing and energetic. Usually, a Leo man is extreme. Any emotion whether it be happiness or anger will be amplified.

Water Lily Symbolism

July’s birth flower is the water lily. It is also known as Nymphaeacea. The water lily is said to be the “Queen of the Water” because of its ability to float in bodies of water. Water lilies are found throughout the world and they are the national flower of Bangladesh. These beautiful blooming flowers come in a variety of shapes–star, cup, pointy and fluffy. They have inspired artists all around the world, such as Monet.

What does the water lily represent? Water lilies represent rebirth and optimism as well as fertility and creation. In Buddhism, the the water lily is associated with enlightenment, spirituality and positive energy.

July has many important dates in history and is a month of many interesting celebrities and public figures.

• July was named after Julius Caesar who was born in this month.
• July is the warmest month in North America and its long, hot days are sometimes called the “dog days of summer.”
• July is the month many countries celebrate their independence including the United States, Belarus, Venezuela, Argentina, Belgium and the Bahamas.
• On July 30, 1933, the Monopoly board game was copyrighted. It was created by Charles Darrow.

Famous Birthdays In July

• Liv Tyler, actress and daughter of Aerosmith’s front star Steven Tyler – July 1
• Dalai Lama, spiritual leader of Tibet – July 6
• Frida Kahlo, Mexican painter best known for her self-portraits – July 6
• Ringo Starr, musician and former drummer for The Beatles – July 7
• Malala Yousafzai, Nobel Prize winner for women’s rights – July 12
• Will Ferrell, comedian, producer and writer – July 16
• Mick Jagger, lead singer of the Rolling Stones – July 26
• JK Rowling, author famous for the Harry Potter series – July 31

For an overview of all birthstones, check out this guide!

Resources: Crystal Vaults I Jewels for Me I Famous Birthdays I What’s My Birth Flower?