Ruby (along with the unofficial Onyx) is the official
July birthstone. Rubies were among the most prized Indian gemstone. They were worn by people of royalty and were symbols of good health. Some people even believed that the Ruby could fight off evil spirits. Rubies had many practical uses as well as symbolizing things. They could be used as weapons when formed in to bullets for blow guns. Alternatively it's said that grinding up a Ruby on your tongue cures indigestion.
Rubies are mostly red, some of them having a purple tint. The most expensive types of Rubies are the deepest and purest red ones. Rubies are mined all over including India, the United States, and parts of the Middle East.
