Ruby
As the birthstone for July, the Ruby symbolizes charity, diginity and divine power.
Early Christians believed that the Ruby contained the spark of life. When worn as an amulet, the fortunate Ruby owner was said to live in peace and concord with all men. Jewelers know it as the red variety of corundum -- a sister gem to the sapphire. Rubies in large sizes are rare, and star rubies are especially prized. Their ideal color is a deep, pure carmine red.
- Hardness: 9
- Refractive Index: 1.762-1.770
- Commonly heated to improve color and appearance with excellent stability