Ruby & Onyx: July Birthstone Guide (Properties, Care & More!)

Dr. Leta Bartoletti 10 May 2025

Are you drawn to the allure of vibrant gemstones, particularly those associated with the passionate month of July? Then prepare to be captivated by the fiery brilliance of ruby and the grounding elegance of onyx, a duo that offers a stunning spectrum of color, history, and meaning.

The world of gemstones is a fascinating realm, filled with stories whispered through millennia. Among the most coveted are those designated as birthstones, each linked to a specific month and believed to possess unique properties. For July, the spotlight shines on ruby, a stone synonymous with passion and vitality, and onyx, a gem of strength and protection. While ruby often takes center stage, onyx provides a compelling counterpoint, offering a sophisticated alternative with its deep, rich hues and purported metaphysical benefits. Both stones, however, share a common thread: they represent beauty, resilience, and the enduring power of the natural world.

Gemstone	Ruby	Onyx
Composition	Aluminum Oxide (Al₂O₃)	Chalcedony (SiO₂) - Silicon Dioxide
Color	Varies from pink to blood-red	Black, White, Brown, Green, Yellow, often banded
Hardness (Mohs Scale)	9	6.5 - 7
Primary Sources	Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Sri Lanka, East Africa	Brazil, India, Madagascar, Uruguay, USA
Symbolism	Passion, love, courage, vitality	Strength, protection, grounding, discipline
Care	Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.	Clean with a soft cloth and mild, soapy water. Avoid harsh chemicals and prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Notable Properties	One of the hardest gemstones after diamond; exhibits pleochroism (different colors from different angles).	Fine-grained structure; often carved into cameos and intaglios due to its layering.
Reference Link	GIA - Ruby	GIA - Onyx

Ruby, derived from the Latin word "ruber," meaning "red," is indeed one of the oldest known minerals, steeped in history and lore. It has long been revered as the "king of gemstones," symbolizing love, passion, courage, and good fortune. Throughout history, rubies have adorned royalty and been prized for their perceived protective qualities. Ancient warriors believed rubies granted invincibility, while others associated them with increased energy and vitality. Even today, a ruby's vibrant red hue is instantly recognizable and evokes feelings of warmth, excitement, and romance.

Onyx, on the other hand, presents a different facet of the gemstone world. As a variety of chalcedony, composed of the mineral silica, onyx is known for its distinct banding, often displaying contrasting layers of black and white or brown. While black onyx is perhaps the most iconic, the stone can also occur in shades of white, brown, green, and yellow. Onyx has been used for centuries in carvings, cameos, and intaglios, its fine-grained structure making it ideal for intricate detail. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, onyx is believed to possess grounding and protective properties, absorbing negative energy and promoting inner strength and discipline.

The association of ruby and onyx with July stems from the tradition of birthstones, where specific gems are linked to each month of the year. Ruby is generally considered the primary birthstone for July, but onyx often appears as an alternative or complementary stone. This pairing provides a fascinating duality, offering individuals born in July a choice between the fiery energy of ruby and the calming stability of onyx. The inclusion of onyx recognizes the diversity of tastes and preferences, allowing individuals to connect with a stone that resonates with their personal style and aspirations.

For those born in July, or anyone drawn to their captivating beauty, ruby and onyx offer a wealth of opportunities for adornment and self-expression. Both gemstones are readily available in a wide range of jewelry styles, from classic rings and pendants to contemporary earrings and bracelets. Whether you prefer the bold statement of a ruby-encrusted necklace or the understated elegance of an onyx ring, these gemstones can add a touch of sophistication and personal meaning to any ensemble.

When selecting ruby or onyx jewelry, it's important to consider the quality of the stones and the craftsmanship of the setting. Look for rubies with a deep, vibrant red color and minimal inclusions (internal flaws). For onyx, examine the banding for clarity and evenness. The setting should be sturdy and well-made, ensuring the longevity of your precious piece. Reputable jewelers can provide guidance on selecting high-quality gemstones and offer insights into the ethical sourcing of these materials.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, ruby and onyx are also believed to possess healing properties that can benefit the wearer. In crystal healing practices, ruby is associated with stimulating circulation, increasing energy levels, and promoting emotional balance. It is said to ignite passion, courage, and confidence, helping individuals overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams. Onyx, on the other hand, is valued for its grounding and protective qualities. It is believed to absorb negative energy, promote inner strength, and enhance self-control. Onyx can be a valuable tool for those seeking stability, focus, and resilience in their lives.

The complementary nature of ruby and onyx extends beyond their physical properties. While ruby ignites passion and inspires action, onyx provides grounding and stability. Together, they represent a balance between fire and earth, energy and stillness. This harmonious combination makes them an ideal choice for individuals seeking both inspiration and strength, passion and resilience. Whether worn together or separately, ruby and onyx can serve as powerful reminders of our inner potential and the importance of living a balanced and fulfilling life.

Taking care of your ruby and onyx jewelry is essential to maintaining its beauty and longevity. Both gemstones can be sensitive to harsh chemicals, so it's advisable to remove your jewelry before engaging in activities that involve contact with cleaning agents, perfumes, or cosmetics. To clean your ruby and onyx jewelry, use a soft cloth to gently wipe away any dirt or debris. For a deeper clean, you can use mild, soapy water and a soft brush. Be sure to rinse your jewelry thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the gemstones.

When storing your ruby and onyx jewelry, it's best to keep them in separate pouches or compartments to prevent scratching. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, as this can fade the color of the gemstones. With proper care and attention, your ruby and onyx jewelry can last a lifetime, becoming cherished heirlooms that are passed down through generations.

The versatility of ruby and onyx makes them suitable for a wide range of occasions and styles. A ruby pendant can add a touch of glamour to an evening gown, while an onyx bracelet can complement a casual outfit. These gemstones can be dressed up or down, making them a valuable addition to any jewelry collection. Whether you're attending a formal event or simply running errands, ruby and onyx can add a touch of elegance and personal style to your look.

In addition to jewelry, ruby and onyx can also be used in decorative objects and home décor. A ruby-encrusted vase can add a touch of luxury to any room, while an onyx sculpture can create a sense of grounding and stability. These gemstones can be incorporated into a variety of design styles, from classic to contemporary, adding a touch of natural beauty and sophistication to your living space.

As you explore the world of ruby and onyx, remember that these gemstones are more than just beautiful adornments. They are symbols of passion, strength, and the enduring power of the natural world. Whether you're drawn to the fiery energy of ruby or the grounding elegance of onyx, these gemstones can serve as powerful reminders of your inner potential and the importance of living a balanced and fulfilling life. So, embrace the allure of ruby and onyx, and let these captivating gemstones inspire you to live with passion, courage, and unwavering strength.

Onyx, formed from the mineral silica, is a chalcedony known for its grounding properties, imparting a feeling of stability and connection to the body, mind, and soul. It is often worn as an amulet, shielding wearers from harm and absorbing negative energy, believed to be a master of good fortune. While the physical properties of onyx and emeralds differ significantly, some green onyx gemstones can resemble emeralds due to their deep dark green hue.

Lapis lazuli and onyx, when combined, create a powerful gemstone synergy. Lapis lazuli governs the throat chakra, enhancing our ability to speak our truth with authenticity and confidence, complementing onyx's grounding influence. Consider a genuine ruby with genuine black onyx and diamond ring for a sophisticated statement piece.

Whether you seek unique or custom, handmade pieces, you'll find a delightful selection of ruby onyx rings, pendant necklaces, and bracelets available from skilled artisans. A piece that's personal, such as a birthstone, makes a perfect addition to any jewelry collection. Ruby and onyx, the birthstones for July, strike the right balance between classic and contemporary, making them excellent gifts for yourself or loved ones.

Note that statements regarding health benefits are purely metaphysical and not supported by scientific evidence. Furthermore, a (Regeneron) injection did not provide sufficient differentiation to warrant phase 3 development, as demonstrated in the ruby study, which evaluated patients with DME, and the onyx study, which evaluated patients with wet AMD.