The birthstones for July and November represent two distinct ends of the gemological spectrum: one a symbol of fiery passion and historical royalty, the other a beacon of warmth and accessible luxury. Ruby, the primary birthstone for July, is celebrated for its vivid red hue and remarkable hardness, earning it a place among the most prized gems throughout human history. Citrine, a golden variety of quartz, serves as a modern alternative birthstone for November, offering a more affordable yet equally radiant option to the traditional topaz. Together, these stones illustrate the evolution of birthstone charts from ancient traditions to contemporary preferences, reflecting both geological rarity and cultural significance.
This article explores the history, properties, and symbolism of these two gemstones, drawing exclusively on the provided materials to present a comprehensive overview for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
The Historical Journey of the Birthstone Chart
The concept of associating specific gemstones with calendar months has ancient origins, though the modern standardized list is a relatively recent development. Early references, such as the Breastplate of Aaron described in the Book of Exodus, listed twelve stones corresponding to the tribes of Israel. These stones later became associated with zodiac signs and, eventually, the calendar months (Source 4). The modern birthstone chart began to take shape in the early 1900s with the establishment of the first official list by the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America), which created a standardized reference still widely used today (Source 4).
The chart has continued to evolve. The first major revision added alexandrite to June, citrine to November, and pink tourmaline to October as alternative options (Source 4). Later, the American Gem Trade Association added tanzanite as a December birthstone, marking the first change to the list in 50 years (Source 4). Spinel was subsequently added as an additional birthstone for August (Source 4). These updates reflect a growing desire for variety, affordability, and color options within the birthstone tradition. Today, consumers often draw freely from both traditional and modern lists, selecting stones based on personal appeal, budget, and availability (Source 1).
July’s Birthstone: Ruby
History and Lore
Ruby has been prized for centuries for its vivid red hue, which has made it a symbol of passion, courage, and prosperity (Source 2, Source 4). Historically, rubies were as valuable as rubies and sapphires, but their value and accessibility increased after large deposits were discovered in Brazil (Source 2). This discovery made the gem more available to a broader market, though high-quality rubies remain exceptionally valuable. The stone’s rich color and natural inclusions, often referred to as its jardin, make each ruby unique (Source 2). Its historical significance is underscored by its consistent presence on birthstone charts, both traditional and modern, with no alternatives listed for July in most official lists (Source 1, Source 3, Source 4).
Geological Formation and Sources
While the provided sources do not detail the specific geological formation of ruby, they consistently note its association with large deposits in Brazil (Source 2). This indicates that significant mining operations have contributed to its availability. The gem’s formation is likely tied to specific metamorphic conditions, but the sources focus on its historical accessibility rather than its geological origins.
Gemological Properties
Ruby is a member of the corundum family, with a chemical composition of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) with trace chromium that gives it its red color. The sources provide specific data on its hardness and symbolism: - Hardness: Ruby has a Mohs hardness rating of 9, making it one of the hardest natural minerals and highly durable for everyday wear (Source 4). - Color: Its vivid red hue is its defining characteristic (Source 2, Source 4). - Symbolism: It is associated with passion, protection, and prosperity (Source 4).
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 9 |
| Color | Vivid red |
| Symbolism | Passion, Protection, Prosperity |
| Primary Source | Brazil (historical large deposits) |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Ruby’s symbolism is deeply rooted in its color and historical prestige. It is explicitly linked to passion, courage, and prosperity (Source 2, Source 4). The stone’s rich, natural inclusions are not seen as flaws but as unique identifiers that add to its character, symbolizing the complexity and depth of human emotion (Source 2).
Care and Cleaning
Given its exceptional hardness (9 on the Mohs scale), ruby is highly resistant to scratching and abrasion (Source 4). This durability makes it suitable for rings and other jewelry that withstand daily wear. Standard jewelry cleaning methods are appropriate, though care should be taken with any gemstone to avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners that might damage any inclusions or the setting.
November’s Birthstone: Citrine and Topaz
History and Lore
November has two primary birthstones: traditional topaz and modern citrine (Source 1, Source 3, Source 4). Topaz, in its natural form, can be yellow, blue, or colorless, but the golden yellow variety is most associated with November (Source 2). Citrine, a variety of quartz, has been added as an official alternative, offering a warm, golden hue (Source 4). Both stones are celebrated for their golden warmth, making them perfect for autumn and winter jewelry (Source 2). Historically, topaz was the sole traditional stone for November, but the modern chart expanded options to include citrine, which is often more affordable and readily available (Source 1, Source 4).
Geological Formation and Sources
The sources do not provide specific geological formation details for topaz or citrine. However, they note that citrine is a variety of quartz, which is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth. This abundance contributes to its affordability and wide availability (Source 4). Topaz, while also common, can be found in larger deposits that have made it accessible for jewelry (Source 1).
Gemological Properties
Both topaz and citrine have distinct properties that influence their use and care.
Citrine: - Hardness: Citrine, as a quartz variety, has a Mohs hardness of 7 (Source 4). - Color: It exhibits a range of yellow to orange hues (Source 4). - Symbolism: Associated with love, affection, and strength (Source 4).
Topaz: - Hardness: Topaz has a Mohs hardness of 8, making it harder than citrine (Source 4). - Color: While naturally occurring in various colors, the yellow variety is most traditional for November (Source 2). - Symbolism: Also linked to love, affection, and strength (Source 4).
| Property | Citrine | Topaz |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 7 | 8 |
| Color | Yellow to Orange | Yellow (most traditional for November) |
| Symbolism | Love, Affection, Strength | Love, Affection, Strength |
| Type | Quartz variety | Silicate mineral |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Both citrine and topaz are imbued with similar symbolic meanings. They are associated with love, affection, and strength (Source 4). Citrine’s golden glow is often linked to warmth and positivity, while topaz’s historical prestige adds a layer of nobility and protection (Source 2, Source 4). The modern addition of citrine to the November list provides a more accessible option for those drawn to these qualities.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their hardness, both citrine (7) and topaz (8) are durable enough for most jewelry applications (Source 4). However, citrine, being softer, may be more susceptible to scratching over time and should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, avoiding harsh chemicals. Topaz, with its higher hardness, is more resistant but should still be handled with care to avoid impacts that could cause cleavage (though this is not explicitly mentioned in the sources, it is a general property of topaz).
Comparative Analysis: Ruby vs. November’s Stones
The primary birthstones for July and November offer a study in contrasts. Ruby, with a hardness of 9 and a history of being as valuable as sapphires, represents rarity and passion (Source 2, Source 4). Its vivid red color is unmatched in the gem world, and its symbolism is deeply tied to powerful emotions and prosperity.
In contrast, citrine and topaz provide warmth and accessibility. Citrine, with a hardness of 7, is a quartz variety that is abundant and affordable, making it an excellent choice for everyday jewelry (Source 4). Topaz, harder at 8, carries a historical prestige but is also widely available. Both stones for November share the symbolism of love and strength, offering a versatile palette of golden hues.
The evolution of the November birthstone list from just topaz to include citrine reflects a broader trend in the birthstone tradition: the inclusion of more affordable and colorful options. This trend began with the first major revision to the modern chart and continues today (Source 4).
The Modern Birthstone Movement and Cultural Variations
The modern birthstone chart is not static. It has been shaped by official organizations and consumer demand. The National Association of Jewelers’ initial standardization was followed by periodic updates to include stones like alexandrite, citrine, and tanzanite (Source 4). These additions were often driven by trade associations seeking to promote certain gemstones or respond to market availability.
Cultural variations also exist. The traditional British chart, for example, includes bloodstone for March and rock crystal for April as alternatives (Source 4). The Hindu Ayurvedic system is based on astrological signs rather than calendar months, and the Tibetan Mystical chart features stones with different spiritual significances (Source 4). However, for the purpose of this article focusing on July and November, the Western modern and traditional charts are the most relevant.
Conclusion
Ruby stands as the undisputed birthstone for July, a gem of exceptional hardness and passionate symbolism, historically valued alongside sapphires and now accessible thanks to large deposits in Brazil. For November, the tradition of topaz has been expanded to include citrine, offering a spectrum of warm, golden stones that symbolize love, affection, and strength. Both gemstones, though different in origin, rarity, and price, fulfill the birthstone tradition’s core purpose: to provide a personal, meaningful connection to the natural world through the beauty of mineralogy. Their enduring popularity, supported by both historical lore and modern gemological understanding, ensures their place in the hearts of jewelry enthusiasts for generations to come.