Ruby. July birthstone.

The name is derived from the Latin word ruber, meaning “red” – the color of love and passion. Few things catch the eye like the ruby birthstone. The finest color of the July birthstone is a deep red with a hint of purple, called “pigeon’s blood” in the trade. A variety of the mineral corundum, ruby gets its color from trace amounts of the element chromium. The more chromium, the stronger the red.

Long associated with the life force blood, ruby was a symbol of power and youthful energy in Indian jewelry.

In addition to being the July birthstone, ruby is traditionally given for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries.