It is quite fitting that the magnificent red RUBY represents the hot summer month of July. July is represented by the astrological sign of Leo; the majestic lion and king of the beasts. A fixed sign with a fire element, Leo’s are magnanimous, generous, hospitable, caring, authoritarian and outgoing. On the human body, Leo rules the heart. According to Café Astrology, “The majestic lion, the King of the Beasts, is Leo's symbol. Throughout history, the lion has symbolized sovereignty, rulership, and courage. The lion's size and strength have captured human imagination since ancient times. Leos, like lions, are thought to be strong leaders. They generally have a regal quality to them, and possess a noble manner that is hard to miss.” As the American Gem Society explains, “Rubies arouse the senses, stir the imagination, and are said to guarantee health, wisdom, wealth and success in love. Ruby is a variety of the gems species corundum. It is harder than any natural gemstone except diamond, which means a ruby is durable enough for everyday wear. Fine-quality ruby is extremely rare, and the color of the gem is most important to its value. The most prized color is a medium or medium dark vivid red or slightly purplish red. If the gem is too light or has too much purple or orange, it will be called a fancy-color sapphire.” The bigger the stone, the larger value the ruby contains; large rubies are more difficult to find than diamonds, emeralds and sapphires.  Locating the finest rubies may take you to the Mogok valley of Upper Burma or Thailand; two places where the rich red colored gems are the local specialty. Ancient Asian belief is that rubies contain the spark of life. In this part of the world it is thought that the bright red stones were self-luminous; they were often called the glowing stone or the lamp stone. Brahmins, Hindu priests of the highest caste, believed that rubies were once used to light the homes of the gods. In Greek legend it is thought that Heraclea had been given a bright ruby as a gift to light her room. Today, the metaphysical properties of Rubies are just as astounding. Rubies promote a clear mind, increased concentration and a better sense of motivation. Self confidence and determination are also properties of rubies. Additionally, the ruby is said to stimulate the base chakra increasing chi, or the life force energy, through your body. Check out VanScoy's selection of Rubies for your favorite July birthday girl.