Ruby Essentials
Rubies are a variety of corundum crystal, the same species as sapphires. The key difference is their red color, caused by trace amounts of chromium. This spectacular red color is why rubies have a distinct separation from sapphires in the gemstone world. There are also different types of rubies including natural rubies, treated rubies, and […]
What are Rubies? Rubies are variety of . Pure corundum has no coloration; with the vivid red ruby color comes from trace amounts of the element chromium (Cr). Like other precious stones, finding , ruby material […]
Understanding the 4Cs of ruby quality is important when choosing a ruby that truly stands out. These four key factors are color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. Together, they help define the beauty and value of the gemstone. Among them, color is the most important, with the finest rubies showing a rich and deep red. […]
Like any other gemstone, the cost of a ruby can vary depending on the quality and carat weight. Note that carat weight is the unit of measurement that most gemstones are weighted by (1 carat = 0.2 grams). Rubies can run as little as $1 a carat to $100,000+ a carat, depending on the 4Cs. […]
Ruby Treatments & Enhancements While the NRC carries untreated and heat-treated rubies only, the following treatments and enhancements are very common. People have been treating gemstones to improve appearance for a very long time. It spans from dying low-quality pieces of lapis lazuli, to heat-treating rubies with a small fire and a pipe, to foil-backing […]
There are many economic, geological, and political factors that create a limited supply of natural rubies. While rubies and sapphires are found in many regions of the world, not all locations can be successfully mined. If deposits are located in areas that are too remote, politically volatile, or environmentally extreme, those deposits will remain untouched. […]
Rubies (and the other corundum variety, sapphire) are an oxide written as Al₂O₃, formally called aluminum oxide. This chemical composition is the foundation of what makes rubies so unique. Ruby crystals & chemistry play a key role in their identity—the difference between rubies and sapphires lies in the presence of trace elements, since pure corundum […]
The difference between a ruby simulant and a synthetic is that one only looks like a ruby, and the other is a ruby from the chemical composition to the crystal structure (even if it is man-made). Note that there is fraud with shady dealers offering rubies at extremely low prices. These are not rubies. They […]