Ruby, also known as the “King of Gemstones,” is a valuable and sought-after gemstone known for its deep red color and durability. It has been revered throughout history, and it continues to be a popular choice for jewelry and investment purposes. In this guide, we will take a closer look at ruby stones, their properties, and why they are so valuable.
1. What is Ruby?
Ruby is a red gemstone belonging to the corundum family of minerals. It is the red variety of corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide. The color of ruby is caused by the presence of chromium and iron in the crystal structure. The deeper and more vibrant the red color, the more valuable the ruby.
2. History of Ruby Stones
Ruby has a rich history dating back to ancient times. In Hindu culture, ruby was believed to bring prosperity and success. In ancient Greece, ruby was considered a stone of prophecy and protection. Ruby was also highly valued in ancient Rome, where it was associated with power and courage. Today, ruby remains a symbol of love, passion, and vitality.
3. Ruby Stone Properties
Ruby is one of the hardest minerals, with a score of 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness. It has a high refractive index, which gives it its characteristic sparkle. Ruby is also highly resistant to scratching and abrasion, making it an ideal choice for jewelry that is worn frequently.
4. Types of Ruby Stones
There are two main types of ruby stones: Burmese ruby and African ruby. Burmese ruby is the most sought-after and valuable type, known for its deep red color and fluorescence. African ruby, also known as Mozambique ruby, is typically darker in color and less valuable than Burmese ruby.
5. Ruby Mining Locations
Ruby is primarily mined in Burma (now known as Myanmar), Madagascar, Mozambique, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Burma is known for producing the finest quality ruby stones, and Burmese ruby commands the highest prices in the market.
6. How to Evaluate the Quality of Ruby Stones
The quality of ruby stone is determined by several factors, including color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. The most valuable rubies are those that are deep red in color, with a slight blue hue. Clarity is also important, and rubies with few or no visible inclusions are more valuable. The cut of the ruby should also be taken into consideration, as a well-cut ruby will display its color and sparkle to its best advantage.
7. Ruby Stone Treatments
Many ruby stones on the market have undergone treatments to enhance their color or clarity. The most common treatment is heat treatment, which improves the color of the ruby by removing any brown or gray tones. However, other treatments such as diffusion and fracture filling can affect the value and durability of the stone.
8. Investing in Ruby Stones
Ruby stones have been a popular choice for investment purposes for centuries. The value of ruby stones is determined by their rarity, quality,
and demand. Burmese ruby stones are the most valuable and sought-after, and their prices have been steadily increasing over the years. Investing in ruby stones can be a wise choice for those who want to diversify their portfolio, but it’s important to do your research and work with a reputable dealer.
9. Caring for Ruby Stones
Ruby stones are fairly easy to care for and can last a lifetime with proper maintenance. It’s important to avoid exposing your ruby stone to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures, as these can damage the stone. To clean your ruby stone, simply soak it in warm water with a mild detergent and gently scrub with a soft brush.
10. Ruby Stone vs. Other Gemstones
Ruby stones are often compared to other red gemstones, such as garnet and spinel. While these stones may have a similar appearance to ruby, they are not as valuable or durable. Ruby is also often compared to sapphire, another gemstone in the corundum family. While sapphire can come in a range of colors, red sapphire is often referred to as “pink ruby” and is not as valuable as true ruby.
11. Ruby Stone Symbolism and Meanings
Ruby stones have been associated with various meanings and symbolism throughout history. In ancient times, ruby was believed to bring good fortune and protect against evil. In modern times, ruby is often associated with passion, love, and vitality. Ruby is also the birthstone for the month of July and is often given as a gift for 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries.
12. Famous Ruby Stones
There have been many famous ruby stones throughout history, including the Black Prince’s Ruby in the British Crown Jewels and the Sunrise Ruby, which sold for a record-breaking $30 million at auction in 2015.
13. Ruby Stone in Pop Culture
Ruby stones have been featured in many popular films and TV shows, such as the ruby slippers in “The Wizard of Oz” and the Heart of the Ocean necklace in “Titanic.” Ruby stones have also been worn by many celebrities on the red carpet, cementing their status as a symbol of glamour and luxury.
14. Ruby Stone Misconceptions
There are many misconceptions surrounding ruby stones, such as the belief that all rubies are created equal. In reality, the quality and value of ruby stones can vary widely depending on a variety of factors. Another common misconception is that ruby stones are always red. While red is the most common color for ruby, they can also come in shades of pink, orange, and purple.
15. Conclusion
Ruby stones are a beautiful and valuable gemstones that have been cherished for centuries. From their rich history to their symbolism and investment potential, ruby stones continue to capture the imagination of people around the world. Whether you’re looking to invest in a ruby stone or simply add one to your jewelry collection, it’s important to choose a high-quality stone and care for it properly.
FAQs
- What is the most valuable type of ruby stone?
- Burmese ruby is considered the most valuable and sought-after type of ruby stone.
- Can ruby stones be treated to enhance their color?
- Yes, heat treatment is a common way to enhance the color of ruby stones.
- How should I care for my ruby stone?
- To care for your ruby stone, avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures and clean it with warm water and a mild detergent.
- What is the symbolism of ruby stones?
- Ruby stones are often associated with passion, love, and vitality.