Cancer Birthstone - The Definitive Guide (2025)

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by Suzanne Sachs — 5 min read

THE BASICS--

Cancer, the fourth sign of the zodiac, is a celestial constellation that has long been associated with the ruby as its primary birthstone. Often celebrated for its deep red hue, the ruby has a rich history of symbolism and significance within the realm of astrology. Whether you're commemorating a birthday, marking a special anniversary, or observing any significant life event, the undeniable allure of a ruby shines through. However, the captivating beauty of this gemstone extends far beyond the confines of a single birth month. The deeper you immerse yourself in the enchanting world of rubies, the more irresistibly drawn you become to wearing this timeless and versatile gemstone on any given day, making it the perfect choice for adorning yourself year-round, regardless of the occasion.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• About the Cancer Birthstone
• Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cancer Birthstone
• Color
• Healing Properties
• Ruby Inclusions
• Ruby Structure
• Cancer Birthstone Meaning and Symbolism
• Love and Passion
• Strength and Courage
• Vitality and Energy
• Celebrity
• Ruby Mines
• Ruby History
• Other Cancer Birthstones
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Choosing The Cancer Birthstone

About the Cancer Birthstone

The birthstone for Cancer, the zodiac sign covering birthdays from June 21st to July 22nd, is the ruby. This exquisite gemstone is renowned for its deep red color and is believed to bring qualities of love, passion, protection, and emotional balance to those born under the Cancer sign. The ruby's symbolism harmoniously aligns with Cancer's characteristics, including sensitivity, nurturing qualities, and a strong emotional connection. It's often worn as jewelry or cherished for its meaningful attributes that resonate with Cancer individuals.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cancer Birthstone

Color

Ruby, the traditional Cancer birthstone, is renowned for its deep red hue and strong associations with love and passion.

• Pigeon Blood Red: The finest rubies are often described as "pigeon blood" red, a vivid, highly sought-after shade.
• Color Variations: Ruby colors can range from pinkish-red to purplish-red, depending on the stone's specific makeup.
• Secondary Hues: Some rubies may exhibit secondary hues, including pinkish, purplish, or orangish tints, which can add to the stone's character.
• Deep Red Hue: Known for its signature deep red color, ruby is the traditional birthstone for Cancer, symbolizing passion and strength.
• Impact on Value: The purity of a ruby's red color, along with the presence of secondary hues, can influence its overall value, with vivid, intense reds being the most prized.

Healing Properties

The Cancer birthstone, traditionally associated with ruby, is believed to possess various healing properties and benefits.

• Base Chakra: Ruby is associated with the base chakra, promoting grounding, stability, and physical well-being.
• Heart Chakra: Ruby is also linked to the heart chakra, enhancing emotional balance and love.
• Grounding Energy: Ruby is believed to help individuals feel more connected to the Earth, fostering a sense of security and grounding.
• Energy Dispersal: It assists in grounding excess energy and dispelling negative or stagnant energies, contributing to overall well-being.

Ruby is often used to assist in grounding excess energy and dispersing any negative or stagnant energies that may be affecting one's overall well-being.

"I've purchased two vintage rings from Suzanne over the past decade and my wife has loved both. Great service, communication and speedy delivery."

— Lee S verified buyer

Ruby Inclusions

Rubies, like many gemstones, can have various types of inclusions or internal features that are naturally occurring or formed during their growth process.

• Types of Inclusions: Rubies can feature a variety of inclusions that impact their clarity, appearance, and value.
• Rutile Needles: Thin, needle-like inclusions of rutile (titanium dioxide) are commonly found in rubies, often creating a silky sheen known as "silk."
• Healed Fractures: Some rubies may contain natural healed fractures or fissures that formed and mended during the gem's growth.
• Impact on Value: Inclusions contribute to the uniqueness and beauty of each ruby, but in well-cut stones, they are often less noticeable.

Ruby Structure

The structure of a ruby, like other gemstones, is an important aspect that contributes to its physical and optical properties.

• Mineral Composition: Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum (aluminum oxide), primarily composed of aluminum and oxygen.
• Color Source: The vibrant red color of rubies is due to the presence of chromium ions (Cr³⁺) in the crystal lattice.
• Hardness: Rubies are among the hardest gemstones, measuring 9 on the Mohs scale, just below diamonds.
• Durability: This high hardness makes rubies highly durable and ideal for everyday wear, especially in jewelry.

This exceptional hardness and durability make rubies not only visually stunning but also ideal for long-lasting, everyday jewelry pieces.

Cancer Birthstone Meaning and Symbolism

The Capricorn birthstone, traditionally associated with the Ruby, holds special meanings and symbolism that resonate with Cancer individuals and their unique characteristics.

“My experience with Vintage Diamond Ring was so excellent I really had to think about it for a while. First their selection of jewelry is profound. The quality is superior.”

— Claude P verified buyer

• Love and Passion

Rubies are often seen as symbols of love and passion. They are believed to ignite and intensify romantic love, making them a popular choice for engagement and anniversary rings. Rubies are associated with deep emotional connections and strong affection. thought to help purify the body, mind, and spirit.

• Strength and Courage

Ruby symbolism often includes attributes of strength, courage, and resilience. Rubies are seen as a source of inner strength, helping individuals face challenges and obstacles with determination and bravery.

• Vitality and Energy

Rubies are thought to enhance vitality and energy levels. They are believed to stimulate life force energy, boost motivation, and increase enthusiasm for life's activities. This vitality is often linked to Cancer's nurturing and caring nature.

• Celebrity

For those who love the glamour of Hollywood and the movies, you can enjoy a garnet ring knowing it is a favorite of many celebrities and royalty. This style has adorned the fingers of top names including Elizabeth Taylor, Natalie Portman and Blake Lively.

“Suzanne was amazing! I utilized the layaway service and it was a breeze. Ring made its way to Texas and was even more gorgeous in person."
— Chloe G verified buyer

Ruby Mines

Ruby is a precious gemstone mined from various locations around the world, each known for producing rubies of varying colors and qualities. One of the most famous and historically significant ruby mining regions in the world is located in Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. Myanmar has been a major source of high-quality rubies for centuries. The border region between Thailand and Myanmar, particularly in areas like Chanthaburi and Trat, has been a source of rubies. Some of the world's finest rubies have been found in this area. Madagascar is known for producing rubies from various regions, including Andilamena and Ilakaka.

Ruby History

Rubies have a rich and storied history that spans thousands of years. Rubies were highly valued in medieval Europe and symbolized wealth, passion, and protection. Nobility and royalty adorned themselves with ruby jewelry to showcase their power and authority. The Victorian era was known for its sentimental jewelry, where each piece often carried a symbolic message. Rubies were incorporated into jewelry to symbolize love, passion, and devotion. The Art Deco era was characterized by its love for geometry and symmetry. Ruby jewelry during this period often featured bold, geometric designs. Rubies were used as accent stones in platinum settings, providing striking contrast and adding a touch of color to the predominantly white metal.

Other Cancer Birthstones

While the traditional birthstone for Cancer is the Ruby, there are several other gemstones and crystals associated with Cancer in alternative systems of astrology and healing. These alternative Cancer birthstones are believed to align with the energies and characteristics of Cancer individuals. Depending on the Zodiac sign, or spiritual beliefs, other stones often associated are moonstone, pearl and aquamarine.

Antique Engagement Rings For Everyone:

No matter which gemstone is your favorite, these time-honored rings have a rich history and individualized character and will continue to have a timeless beauty and elegant appeal that is part of a legacy to pass on to future generations.

Find The Perfect Engagement Ring:

Vintage rings are prized not only for their beauty but also for their exquisite attention to detailing and design. If you're looking for a ring with a sense of glamour, sophistication and vintage charm, explore our collection of Cancer Birthstone Rings today!

Suzanne Sachs

Suzanne has always believed vintage rings can change lives. She's been in the jewelry industry for over 35 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you — your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.

Contact Suzanne

If you love vintage or eco-friendly jewelry please feel free to contact Suzanne or browse our collection of eco-friendly vintage engagement rings.