Ruby - the King of Precious Stones: A Comprehensive Guide

Ruby is a highly sought-after gemstone that has been cherished for centuries due to its vibrant red color and its rarity. It has been used in various cultures as a symbol of power, love, and wisdom. In this post, we will delve into the fascinating world of ruby gemstones, exploring their characteristics, history, and usage

What is a Ruby Gemstone?

Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide. The red color of rubies is caused by the presence of a small amount of chromium. The intensity and saturation of the red color can vary depending on the location where the ruby is mined. Ruby gemstone range in color from deep blackish-red to orangish or pinkish-red

Ruby Color

The color of a ruby is not a single color, but a range. It goes from pinkish-red, to purplish-red, to orangish-red, and an unmodified ruby red as well. There are three main components to any color; hue, tone, and saturation. Hue refers to the actual color, as in red, blue, yellow, etc. Tone refers to the amount of color present in the ruby, and saturation refers to the intensity, richness, and vividness of color.

The most valuable rubies have a pure red color, distinguished with a slight bluish tinge, that is traditionally called “pigeon’s blood” or Burmese red. Rubies a shade darker than pure red are considered wine color or “royal red” and have less sparkle than pigeon’s blood rubies due to their higher iron contents.

Mining Locations

Rubies can be found in various locations around the world. The most notable sources include Myanmar (formerly Burma), which is known for producing the finest pigeon’s blood rubies, and Thailand, known for its darker, brownish-red rubies. Other significant sources include Tanzania, Mozambique, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, India, Japan, Nepal, Australia, the United States, and the Czech Republic, among others.

Usage of Rubies

Rubies have been used in jewelry for thousands of years. They are often set in rings, necklaces, and earrings. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, rubies have also been associated with various symbolic meanings. For example, in Indian Astrology, the ruby is associated with the Sun and is believed to bring good health, wealth, and success to the wearer.

Ruby vs Other Gemstones

While rubies and sapphires are both varieties of corundum, they are distinguished by their color. Red corundum is classified as ruby, while corundum of any other color is classified as sapphire. Also, rubies should not be confused with spinels, another type of red gemstone. Many famous “rubies” in history, such as the Black Prince’s Ruby in England’s Crown Jewels, are actually spinels.

Conclusion

The ruby, with its vibrant red color and rich history, is truly a gemstone worthy of the title “king of precious stones.” Whether you are a collector, a jewelry enthusiast, or someone who appreciates the beauty and symbolism of gemstones, the ruby is a gem that is sure to captivate and delight. It stands as a testament to the wonders of nature and the profound meanings that humans have associated with it throughout history.