Feeling a little crabby? Us too. If you’re a Cancer, you’re a sweet, sensitive soul. The celestial homebodies of the zodiac, the ones who feel it all, and love with a fierce, protective loyalty that could make a lion blush. You’re the friend who brings soup when you’re sick, the partner who remembers every anniversary, and the one who can intuit a mood shift from a mile away. You’re a beautiful, complex creature, and you deserve a gemstone that’s just as captivating. That’s why we’re diving deep into the world of the Cancer birthstone. Let’s get started with this ultimate guide to the Cancer birthstone: Ruby.

OH CANCERS, YOU SWEET SIGN YOU

Born between June 21st and July 22nd, Cancers are ruled by the ever-changing moon, which explains your deep well of emotions and your intuitive nature. You’re a water sign, and much like the tides, your moods can shift and flow. This sensitivity is your superpower, allowing you to connect with others on a profoundly empathetic level. You’re the nurturers of the zodiac, creating a sense of warmth and security wherever you go. Your home is your sanctuary, and you have a knack for making it a cozy, inviting space.

But with great emotional depth comes great responsibility. Your feelings can sometimes get the best of you, leading to moments of moodiness or a tendency to retreat into your shell (you are the crab, after all). Your loyalty, while one of your greatest strengths, can sometimes morph into over-protectiveness, and your sentimental nature might mean you have a hard time letting go of the past.It’s this beautiful blend of strength and vulnerability that makes you so uniquely you. And you’re in good company - Meryl Streep, Ariana Grande, and Tom Hanks are all crabs themselves. 

WHAT IS THE CANCER BIRTHSTONE?

 

 

So what is the official stone for the sign of the crab? The primary and most widely recognized Cancer birthstone is the magnificent Ruby. This gemstone’s fiery heart and deep, passionate red offer the perfect counterpoint to Cancer’s cool, watery depths. It’s a stone that doesn’t just accessorize; it empowers. The Cancer birthstone color isn't just red; it’s the color of the lifeblood within us, a symbol of vitality, courage, and the fierce love Cancers are known for. It’s a match made in the heavens.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE GEM OF THE CANCER STAR SIGN, RUBY

 

The ruby’s story is as rich and dramatic as its hue. Revered for millennia as the “king of gems,” this stone has been coveted by warriors, royals, and mystics across continents and cultures. Its journey from the heart of the earth to the hallowed halls of power is paved with myth, magic, and a whole lot of admiration. Let’s take a little trip back in time, shall we?

ANCIENT EGYPT

Long before it was a July birthstone, the ruby was a stone of immense power in Ancient Egypt. The Egyptians, with their deep reverence for the sun god Ra, saw the ruby's fiery glow as a piece of the sun itself, a tangible symbol of life and vitality. It wasn't just a pretty trinket; it was a potent talisman. Pharaohs and high priests wore ruby amulets, believing the stone offered protection not just in this life, but in the next, guiding their souls safely through the underworld. Talk about a powerful accessory.

ANCIENT GREEK, ROMAN, AND MIDDLE AGE BELIEFS ABOUT RUBY

The ruby's fan club only grew with the rise of the Greek and Roman empires. They associated the gem's blood-red color with Mars, the god of war, believing it granted courage and strength in battle. Roman scholars like Pliny the Elder documented its incredible hardness and density, but the myths were far more tantalizing. It was believed a ruby could warn its wearer of impending danger by darkening in color—a metaphysical mood ring, if you will.

This belief in the ruby’s protective powers intensified during the Middle Ages. In a time of plagues and poisons, the ruby was considered a powerful antidote and shield. European royals and aristocrats coveted the gem, believing it guaranteed not only health and wealth, but victory in all their endeavors. It was a symbol of passion, power, and divine favor, thought to quell anger and resolve disputes. From the battlefield to the royal court, the ruby was the ultimate power stone.

HOW THE BIRTHSTONE OF CANCER HELPS THEM SCUTTLE ALONG

Fast forward to today, and the ruby is still revered for its potent metaphysical properties. This isn't just a pretty rock; it's a total tool for emotional and spiritual well-being. For the sensitive Cancer, the ruby acts as a grounding force, a fiery anchor in your sometimes-stormy emotional seas. It’s a stone of courage, helping you to emerge from your shell and face the world with confidence. It promotes a positive mindset, dispelling the self-doubt that can sometimes creep in and reminding you of your own inner strength.

The ruby’s energy resonates with the heart chakra, encouraging passion, love, and a zest for life. For Cancers, who love so deeply, this stone can help to keep that love pure and prevent it from veering into possessiveness or insecurity. It helps you stay true to your nurturing, compassionate nature while also empowering you to set healthy boundaries. In essence, the ruby helps you to be the best, most authentic version of your Cancer self: loving, intuitive, and fearlessly protective of your own heart.

GET THE RUBY EFFECT, EVEN IF YOU'RE NOT A CANCER

 

Here’s a little secret: you don’t have to be a Cancer to benefit from the ruby’s magic. The powerful properties of this gemstone are available to everyone. Feeling a little lackluster? The ruby’s vibrant energy can reignite your passion and vitality. Need a confidence boost for a big presentation? This stone will have you feeling like royalty. Looking to attract a little more love and abundance into your life? The ruby is a powerful magnet for both.

Anyone seeking to strengthen their heart, feel more secure in themselves, or simply walk through the world with a bit more courage and joy can benefit from this magnificent gem. It’s a stone of leadership and integrity, encouraging you to step into your power and live a life that is both passionate and purposeful. So, whether you're a fiery Aries, a grounded Taurus, or a curious Gemini, a little bit of ruby red can go a long way.

FAQS

WHAT BIRTHSTONE IS A CANCER?

Cancers are lucky enough to have the vibrantly-hued ruby as their assigned birthstone. This precious gem, one of the four most valuable in the world, is the primary birthstone for those born under the Cancer zodiac sign, which covers birthdays from June 21st to July 22nd. The ruby has been historically revered as the “king of gems” for its stunning beauty and potent energy. Its fiery spirit is believed to provide strength, courage, and confidence to the sensitive and emotional Cancer. The connection is deeply symbolic, as the ruby’s properties perfectly complement and balance the quintessential Cancerian traits, making it a powerful and personal talisman for anyone born under the sign of the crab.

WHAT COLOR IS CANCER’S BIRTHSTONE?

The primary color of Cancer’s birthstone, the ruby, is a deep and vibrant red. This signature color can range from a rich, pinkish-red to the most coveted shade known as "pigeon's blood," a deep, pure red with a hint of blue. This fiery hue is central to the ruby’s identity and its metaphysical power, symbolizing the life force, passion, love, and courage. The intensity of the red color is one of the most significant factors in determining a ruby's value and desirability. For Cancers, this powerful red provides a grounding and vitalizing energy, offering a beautiful visual representation of the strength and warmth that this nurturing water sign can channel into the world.

WHAT OTHER GEMSTONES ARE GOOD FOR CANCERS TO HAVE?

Besides the fiery ruby, another excellent gemstone for Cancers is the ethereal Moonstone. This connection is beautifully intuitive, as Cancer is ruled by the Moon, and moonstone is believed to carry the magic and calming energy of the lunar body. It is known to enhance a Cancer’s natural intuition, soothe emotional instability, and provide a sense of calm and peace during turbulent times. Another wonderful choice is the Pearl, also a traditional June birthstone. Its gentle, watery origins resonate with Cancer’s essence, promoting purity, emotional balance, and integrity. Emerald is also a supportive stone, fostering domestic bliss, loyalty, and unconditional love, all things a Cancer holds dear.

HOW DO YOU TAKE CARE OF RUBY?

Taking care of a ruby is relatively straightforward due to its exceptional hardness, which is second only to diamond on the Mohs scale. For routine cleaning, simply use a soft brush, such as a toothbrush, with warm water and a mild dish soap. Gently scrub behind the stone where dirt and oils can accumulate, then rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. While rubies are incredibly durable, it’s best to avoid harsh chemicals. It's also wise to remove your ruby jewelry before engaging in strenuous activities. For storage, keep your ruby pieces in a separate pouch or a fabric-lined jewelry box to prevent them from scratching softer gemstones in your collection.

READY TO RUBY? OLIVIA EWING JEWELRY CAN HELP

 

 

From the courts of ancient Egypt to the modern world of metaphysics, the Cancer birthstone Ruby has reigned supreme as a symbol of power, protection, and unbridled passion. For the sensitive, loyal, and deeply loving Cancer, this fiery gem is more than just a birthstone—it’s a source of courage and a shield for the heart. It empowers you to embrace your nurturing spirit while standing strong and confident in your own light. Whether you’re a Cancer looking to connect with your birthstone or simply a soul seeking to ignite your inner fire, the ruby’s timelessness is undeniable.

Ready to harness that power for yourself? Explore Olivia Ewing Jewelry’s exquisite collection and discover the piece that speaks to your spirit. Or, customize the engagement ring of your dreams by mixing and matching our scintillating selection of loose gemstones with our modern ring settings

 

 

Meet the Author: Olivia Ewing