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| -July
Birthstone |
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| -Well-known
member of the corundum group |
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| -Typically
cut into faceted stones or cabachons |
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| -Sometimes
demonstrate asterism (star effect) |
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| -Routinely
heated to eliminate brown or purple overtones and to improve
clarity (a stable treatment) |
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| -Designated
for the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries |
|
| -Symbolizes
contentment |
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| Ruby
is a popular and well-known member of the corundum group.
The easily recognized, red July birthstone is said to
bring good luck in love to whoever wears it. Rubies are
typically cut into faceted stones or cabochons and sometimes
demonstrate asterism, usually with a six-ray star, yielding
an interesting variety known as star ruby. Rubies are
routinely heated to eliminate brown or purple overtones
and to improve clarity. The treatment is stable for all
practical purposes. Rubies possess excellent toughness
and a hardness rating of 9, so they are safe for everyday
wear and can be cleaned with any of the following methods:
steam, ultrasonic, or soap and water. Major sources for
rubies are Thailand, Burma, Kampuchea, Sri Lanka, and
Kenya. |
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