2.56 Ct. Cabochon Ruby from Burma (Myanmar)

One beautiful translucent 2.56 carat oval purplish red ruby is presented by The Natural Ruby Company, a gem that combines classical shape and artisanal cabochon cutting to emphasize color depth and surface luster. The stone measures 8.95 by 6.95 by 4.22 millimeters, dimensions that yield a pleasing oval profile suitable for a wide range of settings, from a traditional signet ring to a refined pendant. The cabochon cut, with its smooth domed surface and rounded base, is intentionally chosen to enhance the stone's translucency and to present its color in a soft, enveloping manner rather than relying on facet brilliance. The polish is graded excellent, which means the surface exhibits a uniform reflective sheen and minimal surface nicks under standard loupe inspection, allowing the eye to glide over the dome and appreciate the saturation beneath. For buyers who value tactile presence as well as visual appeal, this cabochon offers an immediate warmth and a tactile smoothness when handled, a quality that often elevates the wearing experience in daily jewelry.

Color is the primary determinant of value in rubies, and this specimen displays an intense purplish red hue that sits toward the richer end of the color spectrum. Intense color intensity, as stated in the grading notes, indicates strong saturation without tipping into overly dark or brownish tones, which can detract from desirability. The purplish red designation reflects a measurable presence of purple secondary hue alongside the dominant red, a combination that can add complexity and a unique identity to the gem. Origin plays a significant role in the market, and this ruby comes from Burma, Myanmar, a source historically associated with some of the most prized rubies due to their strong chromium driven reds and often vivid fluorescence. While each mine and each parcel within a producing region can yield variable characteristics, Burmese provenance is frequently associated with high market esteem, and educated buyers factor origin alongside color when evaluating long term value. Heat treatment has been applied to this stone, a widely accepted and stable enhancement that intensifies color and reduces undesirable overtones, bringing out the rich purplish red while preserving the gem's structural stability.

Clarity is described as included, evaluated at eye level, which is a realistic and transparent assessment for natural rubies of this type and size. Included clarity at eye level means that the stone contains inclusions that are visible to the unaided eye under normal lighting, but these inclusions do not necessarily diminish interest or desirability, particularly in cabochon cut stones where inclusions can be perceived as part of the gem’s character. Common types of inclusions in Burmese rubies include mineral crystals, healed fractures, and fine silk like rutile, and these features can affect translucency while sometimes producing attractive optical effects or contributing to a gem’s identity. For cabochons, a degree of translucency coupled with internal features can create a pleasing internal glow, and this specimen’s translucency is an asset rather than a liability. The heat treatment noted for this ruby is executed to enhance color stability and visual uniformity. Heat treatment in rubies is a long established practice, typically permanent under normal wear conditions, and it is considered an acceptable disclosureable enhancement in professional markets. The excellent polish ensures that surface conditions will not mask internal beauty, and it facilitates secure and aesthetic settings that take full advantage of the cabochon form.

For the educated buyer considering both aesthetic and investment factors, this 2.56 carat Burmese cabochon offers a compelling profile that balances rarity, color intensity, and responsible disclosure. The weight places the stone in a category where per carat values rise meaningfully for high quality rubies, and provenance from Burma, Myanmar contributes to desirability among collectors and connoisseurs. When evaluating value, consider the interplay of color, specifically the intense purplish red saturation, the cabochon cut that showcases color rather than light return, the included clarity which speaks to natural origin and character, and the stability and acceptability of heat treatment. Practical considerations include the suggested use in low bezel or secure prong settings that protect the dome, routine gentle cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush, and avoidance of harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners to preserve polish and any surface reaching inclusions. At The Natural Ruby Company we provide detailed origin and treatment disclosure and can assist with recommendations for complementary settings, independent laboratory verification, and documentation that supports long term provenance and resale potential. This ruby represents a thoughtful choice for buyers who prioritize color fidelity, verifiable origin, and the unique tactile and visual qualities that a well cut cabochon can bring to both wearable jewelry and curated collections.