Rubies have long been revered as one of the most precious gemstones in history, symbolizing passion, love, and power. A natural ruby is prized for its rich red hue and exceptional durability, making it a favorite among collectors and jewelry enthusiasts. This guide delves into the fascinating world of rubies, exploring their meaning, value, and key characteristics.
What is Ruby?
A ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, the same family as sapphires, with its red color resulting from trace amounts of chromium. Ranking 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, rubies are incredibly durable and ideal for everyday wear. They are considered one of the "big three" precious gemstones, alongside sapphires and emeralds.
How Rare is Ruby?
Rubies are among the rarest gemstones, particularly those with high-quality color and clarity. Burmese rubies, especially those from the Mogok Valley, are considered the most valuable and are becoming increasingly difficult to source due to limited mining. Fine rubies over one carat in size are significantly rarer than diamonds, contributing to their high market demand and value.
Meaning of Ruby
Throughout history, rubies have been associated with passion, energy, and protection. Ancient cultures believed that rubies held the power to bring success, love, and vitality to their wearers. Today, rubies continue to be a symbol of romance and strength, making them a popular choice for engagement rings and heirloom jewelry.
Ruby Properties
Rubies are exceptionally hard, making them suitable for long-lasting jewelry. They are resistant to scratches and damage, second only to diamonds. Natural rubies often contain inclusions, which are not necessarily flaws but indicators of authenticity. Many rubies undergo heat treatment to enhance their color and clarity, a standard practice in the gemstone industry.
Color, Cut, Clarity, and Carat Weight
Color
The finest rubies exhibit a rich, pure red with slight hints of blue, often referred to as "pigeon-blood red." The intensity and consistency of color greatly influence a ruby’s value, with highly saturated hues being the most desirable.
Cut
Rubies are typically cut into oval, cushion, and round shapes to maximize their color and brilliance. The cut plays a crucial role in enhancing a ruby’s overall appearance by ensuring optimal light reflection.
Clarity
Unlike diamonds, rubies are rarely flawless. Natural rubies contain inclusions, often called "silk," which can create a soft glow within the stone. While clarity is important, color remains the most significant factor in determining a ruby’s value.
Carat Weight
Rubies are found in various sizes, but high-quality large rubies are incredibly rare and valuable. Due to their density, a ruby of the same carat weight as a diamond may appear smaller in size.
Conclusion
Rubies are extraordinary gemstones that exude warmth, passion, and luxury. Their durability, rich symbolism, and captivating color make them a timeless treasure for any jewelry collection.
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