July Birthdays Deserve More Colour: A Ruby & Carnelian Gift Guide

July birthdays call for colour! Ruby and carnelian certainly bring it.

Ruby is rich, romantic and instantly special, while carnelian has a warm orange glow that feels bright, cheerful and a little less traditional. Both make lovely birthday gifts, but which one is right for your person?

For the one who loves a classic

You can’t go far wrong with ruby. It’s July’s traditional birthstone, with those gorgeous deep red and berry shades that feel special without being saved purely for best.

A pair of ruby earrings is an easy win, especially if you’re not sure about sizing. For something a little more personal, try a ruby necklace she can wear close to her heart.

 

Choose ruby if she loves: classic colours, romantic details and jewellery with a rich pop of colour.

For the one who likes something different

Carnelian is the fiery alternative to ruby. Its warm orange and reddish tones have a lovely summer glow, but they also look fabulous with cosy autumn colours later in the year.

It’s a great choice for someone who loves earthy shades, gold jewellery or pieces that stand out from the usual birthday gift ideas.

Choose carnelian if she loves: warm colours, bold accessories and jewellery that’s a little unexpected.

If you don’t know her size

Earrings are your safest bet. Studs are simple enough for every day, huggies feel modern and easy to wear, and drop earrings add a little more colour and movement.  

Best of all, there's no discreetly measuring one of her bracelets and all the while hoping she doesn't catch you!

 

If you want it to feel more personal

A birthstone necklace is a thoughtful choice without feeling overly formal. 

Add an initial, zodiac charm or meaningful symbol to make it feel like it was chosen especially for her. 

Ruby feels wonderfully romantic, while carnelian has a brighter, more playful look.

If she loves stacking her jewellery

Go for a gemstone bracelet. She can wear it on its own when she wants a simple splash of colour or add it to her favourite stack.

An adjustable bracelet is especially useful when you’re buying a surprise and aren’t completely sure of her wrist size.

Should you choose silver or gold?

Take a quick look at the jewellery she already wears.

If she usually wears silver, choose sterling silver. If her jewellery box is full of warmer gold tones, gold vermeil or gold-filled will probably be the better fit. Ruby looks gorgeous with both, while gold beautifully brings out the sunny warmth in carnelian.

Still can’t decide?

Choose the colour that reminds you most of her.

Ruby is rich, confident and romantic. Carnelian is warm, joyful and full of personality. And if she’d love both? A piece combining the two gives her the best of July in one colourful gift.

Explore the ruby and carnelian collection from Marie Nicole Bijoux and find something handmade for her July birthday—or your own. We’re very much in favour of buying your own birthday present.