0.51 Ct. Ruby from Mozambique

This specimen is a transparent 0.51 carat oval ruby, presenting measured dimensions of 5.93 x 4.12 x 2.35 mm. The profile yields a calculated depth of approximately 46.8 percent relative to the mean diameter, a proportion that balances internal light return with color saturation in a shallow oval. The cutting style is a mixed brilliant cut, combining a faceted brilliant crown with a pavilion that incorporates both step and modified brilliant facets, which is intended to enhance both scintillation and color depth. The polish is graded excellent, resulting in crisp facet junctions and minimal surface graining, which preserves the stone reflection pattern and maximizes visual contrast. Clarity is described as slightly included evaluated at eye level, meaning that inclusions are present but do not dominate the visual field under normal viewing, they contribute to the gem character without significantly disrupting light transmission.

Color is described as pinkish red with intense color intensity, and the saturation and tone are the principal drivers of this rubys appeal. The mixed brilliant faceting scheme has been executed to promote internal color mixing, allowing flashes of vivid red to dominate when viewed face up, while the slightly pink undertone remains detectable in controlled lighting. The intense designation refers to strong saturation without being overly dark, a balance that preserves the stones ability to exhibit both fire and body color. Mozambique provenance often yields rubies with lively saturation and a slightly cooler red tone compared with some classic sources, and in this instance the result is a vivid pinkish red that performs well in settings designed to showcase color rather than maximize apparent size.

The stone has been heat treated, a stable and widely accepted enhancement that reduces silk and minor crystal inclusions and can intensify red hues by modifying iron and chromium related chromophores. Heat treated rubies remain durable and are considered trade standard when disclosed, as in this case, and the treatment does not detract from provenance importance. Origin is Mozambique, a known modern source of high quality rubies, and the geological signature commonly includes trace element profiles that support strong red coloration when subjected to controlled thermal processing. The Natural Ruby Company provides transparent disclosure of these parameters, and the combination of Mozambique origin, heat treatment, and the documented mixed brilliant cutting approach offers collectors and jewelers confidence in both aesthetic predictability and market acceptance.

Owning this ruby is an investment in both beauty and craftsmanship, because it unites desirable optical attributes with considered lapidary execution. From a gemstone investment perspective, rubies exhibiting intense color, strong polish, and intact transparency command premium attention in secondary markets, and well cut small stones can outperform larger, poorly proportioned material on a value per weight basis. The mixed brilliant cut here improves apparent face up color and yields controlled brilliance, attributes that translate to superior visual impact when set in jewelry, and the slightly included clarity grade when properly set and maintained does not preclude strong resale desirability. As a durable corundum material, rated nine on the Mohs scale, this ruby is suited to daily wear applications when mounted with appropriate protective settings, such as a low bezel or secure four prong mount, which will safeguard facet edges and any peripheral inclusions.

When appraising this stone for bespoke design work, technical considerations guide setting and design choices, and The Natural Ruby Company can advise on thresholds for prong placement, bezel thickness, and complementary metal selection to optimize both color contrast and structural security. The excellent polish supports high luster finishes in white or yellow metals, while the pinkish red hue often benefits from a warmer yellow gold backdrop to enrich perceived saturation. For collectors focused on long term value, documented provenance, honest treatment disclosure, and meticulous cutting are the components that preserve liquidity, and this ruby presents a rational proposition on each of those axes. The Natural Ruby Company stands behind the description and provenance of this piece, and we welcome technical inquiries regarding facet schematics, light performance imaging, and recommended mounting specifications for discerning clients.