Ruby
The ruby has long been representative of romantic love. It is said to inspire devotion and faithfulness within a romantic relationship. In fact French jewelers in the 1800s referred to the ruby as the "dearly loved stone." The fiery red color and sparkle can inspire sensuality in the wearer.
July's birthstone, ruby is also recognized as the traditional gift for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries. It ensures harmony, guard against sorrow, inspires confidence and brings success. This corundum family gem, sister to sapphire, only comes in one color but the shades of red in which it comes vary from purplish and bluish red to orange red in medium to dark stones. Color is the key when considering value. Prized colors are pure red with no overtones of brown or blue. Better qualities are usually free of Inclusions. Ruby in sizes over 2 carat is rare. They are routinely enhanced by traditional heating methods to intensify or lighten color and / or improve clarity. Clean with a jewelers solution - contact your jeweler.