“The gleaming ruby should adorn

All those who in July are born,

For thus they’ll be exempt and free,

From lover’s doubts and anxieties.”

July’s birthstone is the ruby (from the Latin word, ruber, which means red). Folk wisdom tells us that when one wears a ruby, the wearer will be blessed with health, wealth, wisdom, and great romance. The wearer also acquires magical ability to live in peace with his enemies, as long as the ruby is worn on the left hand or as a brooch on the left side.

Rubies are in the corundum family (the same family as sapphires). Rubies are always red or a shade of red.