Origins of natural Ruby Gemstones

Natural rubies are one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world, prized for their vibrant red color and rarity. But what exactly is a natural ruby, and where do they come from? In this article, we will explore the origins of natural ruby gemstones and delve into the fascinating world of these precious stones.

Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed of aluminum oxide. The red color of rubies is caused by the presence of chromium in the crystal structure of the gemstone. The intensity of the red color can vary from a deep, blood-red hue to a lighter pinkish-red shade. The most valuable rubies are those with a pure, intense red color, often referred to as “pigeon’s blood” rubies.

Natural rubies are formed deep within the Earth’s crust, under high pressure and temperature conditions. They are typically found in metamorphic rocks, such as marble and schist, where the conditions for their formation are just right. Rubies can also be found in basaltic rocks, which are formed from volcanic activity.

One of the most famous sources of natural rubies is Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. Burmese rubies are highly prized for their exceptional color and clarity. The Mogok region in Myanmar is particularly renowned for producing some of the finest rubies in the world. These rubies are often referred to as “Burmese rubies” and are considered to be among the most valuable gemstones on the market.

Another important source of natural rubies is Thailand, where rubies have been mined for centuries. Thai rubies are known for their rich, deep red color and are often used in high-end jewelry pieces. Other countries that produce natural rubies include Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Tanzania.

In recent years, Mozambique has emerged as a significant source of natural rubies, particularly in the Montepuez region. Mozambican rubies are prized for their vivid red color and high clarity. These rubies are often compared to Burmese rubies in terms of quality and are becoming increasingly popular among gemstone enthusiasts.

Natural rubies are typically cut and polished to enhance their color and brilliance. The most common cuts for rubies are oval, round, and cushion, although other fancy cuts are also popular. Rubies are often set in jewelry pieces such as rings, earrings, and necklaces, where their vibrant red color can truly shine.

In conclusion, natural rubies are a rare and precious gemstone that have captivated people for centuries. Their rich red color and exceptional beauty make them highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike. Whether they come from Myanmar, Thailand, Mozambique, or another source, natural rubies are a true marvel of nature.

Properties and Characteristics of Natural Ruby

Natural ruby is a precious gemstone that has captivated people for centuries with its vibrant red color and exceptional beauty. This gemstone is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is one of the hardest minerals on Earth, second only to diamond. Ruby gets its red color from the presence of chromium in its chemical composition, and the intensity of the color can vary from a deep, rich red to a lighter pinkish-red hue.

One of the most distinctive properties of natural ruby is its hardness, which is a 9 on the Mohs scale. This makes it an excellent choice for jewelry that is worn frequently, such as rings and bracelets, as it is highly resistant to scratching and abrasion. In addition to its hardness, ruby also has a high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant sparkle and luster that is highly prized by gemstone enthusiasts.

Another characteristic of natural ruby is its rarity. Fine quality rubies are among the most valuable gemstones in the world, often fetching prices that rival or even exceed those of diamonds. The scarcity of high-quality rubies is due to a combination of factors, including the limited number of locations where they are found and the difficulty of mining and extracting them from the earth.

In terms of color, natural ruby is most commonly associated with a deep red hue known as “pigeon’s blood” red. This color is highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs, as it is considered to be the most desirable and valuable shade of ruby. However, rubies can also be found in a range of other colors, including pink, orange, and purple, although these are less common and typically less valuable than the classic red variety.

Natural ruby is often treated to enhance its color and clarity, a practice that has been used for centuries to improve the appearance of gemstones. Common treatments for ruby include heat treatment, which can intensify the color and remove any inclusions or imperfections, as well as fracture filling, which involves filling surface-reaching fractures with a glass-like substance to improve the gemstone’s clarity.

When shopping for natural ruby, it is important to look for gemstones that have been certified as untreated by a reputable gemological laboratory. This certification ensures that the ruby has not been subjected to any treatments that could affect its value or durability. In addition, it is recommended to purchase ruby from a trusted and reputable jeweler who can provide information about the gemstone’s origin and quality.

In conclusion, natural ruby is a stunning gemstone with a rich history and a range of unique properties that make it highly prized by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts. From its vibrant red color to its exceptional hardness and rarity, ruby is a gemstone that continues to captivate and inspire people around the world. Whether set in a ring, necklace, or bracelet, natural ruby is sure to make a statement and add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any jewelry collection.