All About Rubies: Your Guide to This Fiery Red Gem
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Few gemstones capture passion and power quite like the ruby. Known for its intense red hue, the ruby has been a symbol of love, strength, and vitality for centuries. Whether you’re looking for a romantic engagement ring or a bold statement piece, a ruby is a stunning choice. But what makes rubies so captivating? Let’s find out.
What is a Ruby?
Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, with their signature red color coming from trace amounts of chromium. Interestingly, if a corundum crystal is any color other than red, it’s classified as a sapphire! Rubies are also one of the hardest gemstones, second only to diamonds, making them a durable option for everyday wear.
Meaning of Rubies
Throughout history, rubies have been associated with passion, protection, and prosperity. Ancient warriors wore rubies into battle, believing they made them invincible. In modern times, rubies symbolize love, energy, and success—perfect qualities for a lifelong commitment.
Ruby Properties
Color: Rich red to pinkish-red, with deep “pigeon’s blood” red being the most prized.
Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale (highly durable and suitable for daily wear).
Clarity: Often contains needle-like inclusions called silk, which can enhance a ruby’s glow.
Luster: Brilliant and highly reflective.
Treatments: Many rubies are heat-treated to enhance their color and clarity.
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Origins of Rubies: Where Do They Come From?
Rubies are found across the world, but certain locations produce the most coveted stones.
| Location | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Myanmar (Burma) | Intense “pigeon’s blood” red, exceptional quality, and high value. |
| Thailand | Darker, more garnet-like reds with strong brilliance. |
| Sri Lanka | Lighter pinkish-red rubies, often called “pink sapphires.” |
| Mozambique | Deep red with excellent clarity, emerging as a top source. |
| Madagascar | Bright red rubies, often with silk-like inclusions. |
Price
Rubies can be among the most expensive colored gemstones, especially if they are from Burma (Myanmar). While still high quality, rubies from Mozambique and Thailand can cost a couple of thousand.
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Tips for Choosing Rubies
Look for Vibrant Color: A deep, rich red with slight blue undertones is the most valuable.
Prioritize Cut: A well-cut ruby enhances its brilliance and maximizes its color.
Mind the Clarity: Some inclusions are expected, but avoid overly cloudy rubies.
Consider Origin: Burmese rubies are top-tier, but Mozambique and Thailand also offer stunning options.
Check for Treatments: Heat treatment is common, but avoid heavily treated or synthetic rubies.
Pro Tip: For a truly eye-catching ruby, choose one with a high-intensity red and a well-proportioned cut. If you love vintage styles, look for rubies with natural silk inclusions that create a soft, glowing effect.
Rubies are fiery, romantic, and incredibly durable—making them an exceptional choice for any jewelry collection!
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Gemstone Types
When choosing a gemstone, it’s important to understand the difference between natural and lab-grown stones. While both have their own unique appeal, your choice will depend on budget, ethics, and personal preference.
Natural Gemstones Natural gemstones are formed deep within the Earth over millions of years. They are mined from the ground and can vary in color, clarity, and inclusions due to their natural formation process.
Pros: Unique, one-of-a-kind, carries historical and natural significance.
Cons: Can be more expensive, often contain inclusions, and mining can have ethical and environmental concerns.
Currently SAMA offers only natural gemstones.
Lab-Grown Gemstones Lab-grown gemstones have the same chemical and physical properties as natural gems but are created in a controlled environment. They are not imitation stones—just gemstones grown under lab conditions rather than in the Earth.
Pros: More affordable, eco-friendly, and often have fewer inclusions.
Cons: Lack the rarity of natural stones, and some may prefer the natural origin of mined gems.
Pro Tip: Both natural and lab-grown gemstones are stunning choices, so it all comes down to what matters most to you—authentic rarity or ethical, budget-friendly brilliance!
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