Rubies – gems of fire, passion and power – have fascinated mankind for thousands of years. These stones symbolise royal power and immortal beauty. In today’s blog, we will take a detailed look at everything you ever wanted to know about rubies: from their origin in nature, through processing and use in jewellery, to their role in history, folklore and collecting. Immerse yourself in a world where science meets beauty and natural perfection.
What is a ruby? Definition and meaning
Ruby, belonging to the corundum family, is a gemstone variety of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The fundamental difference from sapphire, which is also corundum, is the red color of ruby, caused by the presence of trace amounts of chromium.
The name "ruby" comes from the Latin rubeus , meaning "red." In various cultures, ruby is considered a symbol of life, blood, and the heart. This stone is a celebration of passion and determination, making it extremely popular in jewelry design and as an investment commodity.
How are rubies created?
Rubies are formed deep beneath the Earth's surface under extreme conditions of high temperature and pressure. Under these conditions, chemical elements combine to form corundum crystals, often surrounded by metamorphic rocks such as marble.
The process of rubies formation is incredibly rare. The ideal conditions where all the necessary elements and the right geological processes are present are very limited. This contributes to their rarity and higher price.
Crystallization and structure
Rubies crystallize in the hexagonal crystal system. Their shape can be columnar, tabular or bipyramidal. The perfect symmetry of the crystal structure and its reflection of light give the ruby its characteristic luster.
The presence of inclusions, i.e. natural imperfections, is common. Rather than reducing the value of a stone, inclusions often prove its natural origin and can even increase its price – for example, if the inclusions create a rare optical phenomenon such as asterism (star effect).
Classification of rubies: What determines their value?
Rubies are evaluated according to several criteria that determine their price:
Color
Color is a key factor. The most prized rubies are those with a “pigeon blood” hue – an intense red with a hint of blue. The color must be even and rich, without brown or orange undertones.
Purity
The presence of small inclusions is common, but excessive amounts can reduce the value of the stone. However, optical phenomena such as silky inclusions or the star effect are highly valued.
Size and weight
Rubies weighing over 5 carats are very rare. Their price increases exponentially with size, especially if they have good color and clarity.
Origin
The place of origin is of crucial importance. Rubies from Myanmar (Mogoku) are considered to be of the highest quality and fetch the highest prices.
Physical properties of ruby
Ruby is the second hardest gemstone after diamond, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it ideal for everyday wear, such as in rings and bracelets.
Its high refractive index (1.762 to 1.770) ensures a bright and brilliant shine. Rubies also have the ability to scatter light, which contributes to their radiant appearance, especially after precision cutting.
Where are rubies mined?
The most important ruby deposits include:
- Myanmar (Burma): Produces the world's most valuable rubies, especially in the Mogok region.
- Thailand: Stones from Thai mines have a darker shade of red, often with brown undertones.
- Sri Lanka: Produces rubies with a softer shade of red, known as pink rubies.
- Africa: Tanzania and Madagascar are known for new discoveries of ruby deposits, which offer a wide range of colors and quality.
The extraction of rubies is laborious, often done by hand in small mines. Sustainable mining and the ethical origin of stones are increasingly demanded by customers.
How are rubies processed?
After being mined, rubies are cut, polished and polished to bring out their beauty. Each stone is unique and requires an individual approach. The cutting process affects not only the aesthetics but also the value of the ruby.
Engraving and special decoration techniques enhance the exclusivity of the stones, which are so often used in limited edition jewelry.
Rubies treatment
Natural rubies are commonly heat treated to enhance their color and clarity. This process is acceptable if properly stated in the certification. There are also diffusion and crack-filling treatments, which reduce the value of the stone.
Synthetic rubies
Synthetic rubies have been produced in laboratories since the late 19th century. Although they have identical chemical and physical properties to natural rubies, their value is much lower. The careful collector or investor should always pay attention to the certification and origin of the stone.
Rubies as an investment
Rubies are among the most valuable gemstones in the world. Stones over 3 carats, with excellent color, minimal inclusions, and certified origin are of investment interest. Rubies from Mogok are the most sought after, but rare stones from Tanzania or Sri Lanka also have high potential for value growth.
Rubies in jewelry
Rubies are used as solitaire stones in rings or earrings, but also as complementary stones in combination with diamonds. Their color adds depth and emotion to jewelry.
History and folklore of rubies
Rubies have always been considered royal stones. In ancient India, they symbolized divine blessings, while in European royal courts they adorned crowns and scepters.
Summary
Rubies are much more than just gemstones – they are a reflection of passion, history and tradition. Whether you choose a ruby as a piece of jewelry or an investment asset, choose carefully and with love. Every ruby has its own story. What will yours be?
