July's Birthstone: Ruby

If you're lucky and were born in July, ruby is your birthstone of the month.

One of the oldest sources of ruby 'the king of gems' is in what used to be called Burma (now Myanmar). Sourced in the Mogok River Valley, it provided much of the world's finest rubies for many centuries. These rubies exhibited the highly prized red to slightly purplish red color.

Whatever the source, ruby is by far one of the most popular and coveted precious gemstones in the world. Whether it's your birthstone or not, ruby makes a special gift for any occasion. Grays is abundant with the finest ruby jewellery, take a look at our top picks... 

1960s dress ring, set with natural untreated Burma rubies and diamonds. Available from Wimpole Antiques 

Art Deco ruby and diamond ring. Available from Elton Antique Jewellery

18ct gold Edwardian boat shaped ruby and diamond ring. Available from Elton Antique Jewellery 

Antique 14k yellow gold bracelet of heavy quality, set with six Burma ruby and rose-cut diamond motifs, c1900-10. Available from Nigel Norman

Openwork circular brooch set with brilliant cut diamonds, and three cabochon Burma rubies. Available from Nigel Norman - 

Victorian double serpent ring in 18ct gold set with old cut diamond and ruby eyes. Available from Wimpole Antiques