Choosing Ruby Engagement Rings

A. Color – The Most Important Factor

The most valuable rubies have a vivid, rich red hue with minimal secondary tones.

• Best Color: Pure red or slightly bluish-red, often called pigeon blood red.
• Less Valuable Tones: Purplish, brownish, or overly dark rubies.

B. Clarity – Fewer Inclusions Enhance Value

Rubies naturally contain inclusions, but eye-clean rubies (inclusions not visible to the naked eye) are the most sought after.

• Fine-Quality Rubies: Minimal inclusions, bright internal glow.
• Heavily Included Rubies: Cloudy appearance, lower durability.

C. Cut – Maximizing Brilliance

A well-cut ruby enhances light reflection and brilliance.

• Most Popular Cuts: Oval, cushion, and round cuts highlight a ruby’s depth and color.
• Avoid Deep or Shallow Cuts: These can make a ruby appear dull or smaller than its actual carat weight.

D. Carat Weight – Finding the Right Size

• Larger rubies over one carat are rare and significantly more expensive.
• A well-cut smaller ruby can appear larger due to strong color and brilliance.

A. Natural, Untreated Rubies – Highly Valuable

• No enhancements, making them rare and expensive.
• Often accompanied by a gemological certification.

B. Heat-Treated Rubies – Industry Standard

• Improves color and clarity naturally using heat.
• Widely accepted and more affordable than untreated rubies.

C. Fracture-Filled or Lead-Glass-Filled Rubies – Lower Quality

• Fillers are used to improve clarity but make the ruby more fragile.
• Less valuable and require extra care.

Tip: Always ask for a certification from GIA, AGL, or GRS to verify authenticity and treatments.

• Bezel Setting: Fully encases the ruby in metal, offering maximum protection.
• Prong Setting: Enhances light exposure for brilliance but requires regular prong checks.
• Halo Setting: Surrounds the ruby with diamonds, enhancing its sparkle and size.

• Yellow Gold: Complements deep red tones, giving a vintage appeal.
• White Gold or Platinum: Highlights a ruby’s brightness with a modern touch.
• Rose Gold: Blends beautifully with pinkish-red rubies, creating a warm, romantic feel.

• Classic & Timeless: Solitaire or halo setting with platinum or white gold.
• Vintage-Inspired: Ornate metalwork with yellow or rose gold.
• Modern & Minimalist: Bezel or prong setting with clean lines.

• Clean with mild soap and a soft brush—avoid harsh chemicals.
• Store separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
• Have the setting checked annually to ensure security.