Ruby

Description

Ruby gems (stone) refer to a variety of precious gemstones that are made from the mineral corundum and display a red hue. These gemstones are valued for their beauty, rarity, and durability, making them one of the most coveted types of gemstones in the world. Ruby gems have been prized throughout history and are often associated with love, passion, and power.

Characteristics of Ruby Gemstones:

1. Color: The defining characteristic of a ruby is its rich red color, which is caused by the presence of chromium in the mineral corundum. The finest rubies exhibit a deep, vibrant red, often referred to as “pigeon blood” red. Lighter or darker hues can affect the value of the stone, with the most desirable rubies having a pure, intense red with a hint of blue.
2. Hardness and Durability: Rubies are incredibly durable due to their mineral composition. They rank 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them one of the hardest gemstones, second only to diamonds (which rank 10). This makes them ideal for use in jewelry, especially in rings and other pieces that may experience frequent wear.
3. Clarity: Like all gemstones, rubies can contain natural inclusions, which are tiny imperfections or internal features. However, the clarity of a ruby affects its value. Stones with fewer visible inclusions are considered more valuable. Inclusions in rubies can sometimes create unique effects, such as the highly prized star-shaped pattern known as asterism found in star rubies.
4. Cut: The cut of a ruby gemstone is important for maximizing its color and brilliance. Common cuts include oval, cushion, and round, but rubies can also be found in more unique shapes, such as pear or heart.
5. Carat Weight: Like other gemstones, rubies are measured in carats. Larger rubies are rarer and more valuable, with the price per carat increasing significantly for stones above one carat.
   

   Uses in Jewelry:

   Ruby gemstones are a popular choice for a variety of jewelry pieces, including rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. They are often set in precious metals like gold or platinum to enhance their beauty. The most popular use for rubies is in engagement rings, as their association with love makes them a meaningful alternative to diamonds.

   Some examples of ruby-set jewelry include:

   • Ruby Rings: Often used as centerpieces, rubies in rings are admired for their brilliance and symbolism.
   • Ruby Necklaces: Typically worn as statement pieces, rubies are arranged in stunning pendants or necklaces to show off their rich color.
   • Ruby Earrings: Rubies make for eye-catching earrings, either as studs, drops, or in combination with other gemstones.

6. Famous Ruby Gemstones:

   • The Sunrise Ruby: One of the most expensive rubies ever sold, this 25.59-carat Burmese ruby fetched over $30 million at auction in 2015.
   • The DeLong Star Ruby: A 100.32-carat star ruby, famous for its asterism effect, resides in the American Museum of Natural History in New York.

   Conclusion:

   Ruby gemstones (stone) are among the most prized and valuable of all gemstones, revered for their stunning red color, durability, and rich symbolism. They have adorned royalty and played significant roles in cultures around the world, making them a timeless choice for jewelry and an emblem of power, passion, and love. Whether set in rings, necklaces, or crowns, rubies continue to captivate with their brilliance and beauty.