2.44 Ct. Cabochon Ruby from Mozambique

This ruby is a precision described gemstone, weighing 2.44 carats, rendered in a classic pear outline and measuring 11.94 x 6.35 x 4.06 mm, cabochon cut, transparent with vivid color intensity, and graded included for clarity evaluated at eye level, with an excellent polish and no enhancement, originating from Mozambique. The cabochon cut in this specimen is executed with careful control of dome geometry, the apex aligned to the main crystal axis to maximize color saturation and reduce apparent zoning, while the back and sides were smoothed to preserve a continuous girdle line and to support secure bezel settings. The 4.06 mm height yields a balanced crown to base ratio for a pear, enough depth to display internal color without appearing dark under common lighting, and the polish quality is evident in the mirror like surface finish that speaks to repeated fine abrasives and final diamond paste work. Transparency in a cabochon ruby is rarer than in faceted equivalents, and this example maintains notable light transmission, allowing internal features to interact with transmitted and reflected light, producing a lively presence even when set in closed back jewelry.

From a gemological standpoint, the included clarity grade at eye level indicates the presence of visible internal features that are consistent with natural, unenhanced Mozambique material, features that are often responsible for the velvety diffusion that collectors value. Inclusions in this stone contribute to the optical character, scattering light to create a saturated, vivid red that reads strongly across lighting environments, from daylight to incandescent. The absence of heat or glass filling enhancement preserves original crystal chemistry and structure, which has direct implications for long term stability and for valuation relative to treated material. Mozambique rubies are known for chromium related coloration combined with trace iron and titanium that can shift tones slightly towards raspberry or purplish red, and this specimen demonstrates that signature warm red with a concentrated core color. The cabochon execution further emphasizes this effect, offering a surface sheen and apparent depth that emulate the classic soft luminescence prized in historic rubies.

In comparison to famous gemstones that have shaped the market and historical narrative, this ruby offers a distinct and technically interesting profile. Its vivid saturation and unenhanced natural state invite parallels with famed examples of pure red rubies such as the Sunrise Ruby in terms of intensity, while remaining realistic about scale and provenance. Unlike certain historic Burmese pieces that are often faceted to display fire and brilliance, the cabochon form here is more akin to older period jewels and devotional stones where polished domes were used to convey pure color and density, a quality seen in some renowned museum pieces. The stone also echoes the velvety appearance of notable star rubies when viewed for color saturation alone, but without asterism, which makes it valuable for collectors who appreciate pure chroma and natural formation over the novelty of star phenomena. Its Mozambique origin places it in a modern supply context where well colored, transparent material is increasingly recognized by connoisseurs, and the lack of treatment elevates its standing against many commercial rubies that undergo heat or clarity enhancement.

The Natural Ruby Company presents this ruby as a carefully curated natural specimen, suitable for bespoke high end jewelry or for a collector seeking material that balances technical quality with provenance. For mounting considerations, the pear cabochon shape adapts well to bezel and half bezel settings that protect the polished surface, and the stone will respond well to warm gold alloys that complement its vivid red hue while minimizing contrast that could mute the perceived saturation. From a connoisseurship perspective, the most compelling attributes are the combination of natural Mozambique chemistry, visible but characterful inclusions, vivid color intensity, and the absence of enhancement, a confluence that is relatively rare in the market for transparent cabochon rubies of this size. We recommend gemological documentation to accompany acquisition, and The Natural Ruby Company can assist with coordination of independent laboratory evaluation to confirm origin, natural state, and the absence of treatment, ensuring the record of this stone matches its observable technical qualities.