Indian Rubies

Indian rubies are admired for their warm red to pinkish-red hues and long-standing presence in the gemstone trade. Historically mined in regions like Karur and Orissa, Indian rubies have been used for centuries in traditional jewelry and royal adornments. While they may not always match the clarity or intensity of rubies from other sources, Indian rubies are valued for their cultural significance, natural charm, and affordability. With a blend of heritage and beauty, Indian rubies continue to hold a special place in both local and international markets.

As the name implies, these rubies come from India. Many of the best-quality rubies from this source have a pinkish-red appearance, and very little material can be faceted. It is often opaque instead of transparent like glass, and polished in a rounded, cabochon shape or carved.

Dealers will highlight that the best quality material according to the 4Cs of color, clarity, cut, and carat weight comes from a little island off the south-east tip of India called Sri Lanka . The island is widely known as Ratnadeepa meaning the “Island of Gems” with the city of Ratnapura meaning “City of Gems”.

Rubies from Sri Lanka:

Aside from a few scarce exceptions, most of this material will be carving-grade or cabochan-grade, and is not suitable to be faceted like most gems we see. There are also a number of dealers that refer to the fine Sri Lanka rubies as Indian rubies, despite them being separate countries. It is worth noting that they are incredibly close together on a map, and do reference one another in their historical literature.

The ruby material from the Karur mines of India can be transparent and facet-quality, but it is not a major ruby supplier on the world market. Most of the rubies are also known to be opaque.

The other mines are known for large, ruby carving specimens the size of a man’s arm.