Rubies – gemstones of fire, passion and power – have fascinated mankind for thousands of years. These stones symbolize royal power and immortal beauty. In today's blog, we take a detailed look at everything you ever wanted to know about rubies: from their origin in nature, through processing and use in jewelry, 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 the ruby, caused by the presence of a trace amount of chromium.
The name "ruby" comes from the Latin rubeus , meaning "red". In various cultures, the ruby is considered a symbol of life, blood and 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 created deep below the earth's surface under extreme conditions - high temperatures and pressures. Under these conditions, the chemical elements combine to form corundum crystals, often surrounded by metamorphic rocks such as marble.
The process of creating rubies is incredibly rare. The ideal conditions, where all the necessary elements and the right geological processes are available, are very limited. This contributes to their rarity and higher price.
Crystallization and structure
Rubies crystallize in a 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 detracting from a stone's value, inclusions often prove its natural origin and can even increase its price – for example, if the inclusions create a rare optical phenomenon such as an asterism (star effect).
Classification of rubies: What determines their value?
Rubies are graded according to several criteria that determine their price:
ColorColor is a key factor. The most prized are the "pigeon's blood" rubies - an intense red with a hint of blue. The color must be even and saturated, 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 silk inclusions or the star effect are highly valued.
Size and weight
Rubies weighing more than 5 carats are very rare. Their price increases exponentially with size, especially if they have quality color and clarity.
Origin
Place of origin is crucial. Rubies from Myanmar (Mogoku) are considered 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. This makes it ideal for everyday wear, for example in rings and bracelets.
Its high refractive index (1.762 to 1.770) ensures a clear and brilliant shine. Rubies also have the ability to scatter light, which contributes to their brilliant 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 are 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 that offer a wide range of color and quality.
Mining rubies is difficult, often done manually in small mines. Sustainable mining and the ethical origin of stones are an increasingly frequent request from customers.
How are rubies processed?
After extraction, rubies are cut, cut and polished to bring out their beauty. Each stone is unique and requires an individual approach. Grinding affects not only the aesthetics, but also the value of the ruby.
Engraving and special decorating techniques increase the exclusivity of the stones that are so often used in limited edition jewelry.
Modifications of rubies
Natural rubies are commonly heat-treated to enhance their color and clarity. This process is accepted if it is properly mentioned in the certification. There are also diffusion and crack filling treatments, but these 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 single stones in rings or earrings, but also as complementary stones in combination with diamonds. Their color gives jewelry depth and emotion.
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 sceptres.
