3.32 Ct. Ruby from Mozambique

This listing describes a transparent red ruby weighing 3.32 carats, presented in an oval shape with precise dimensions of 11.36 by 7.54 by 4.32 millimeters. The gem is fashioned with a mixed brilliant cut, combining the light return and scintillation of brilliant facets with the face up color emphasis provided by step cut elements. The clarity is graded as included when evaluated at eye level, and the stone exhibits vivid color intensity and an excellent polish. The material has been heat treated, a common and stable enhancement used to intensify hue and improve clarity, and provenance is Mozambique, a source known for producing richly saturated ruby material. These objective details describe a substantial and well finished specimen that is suitable for use as a center stone in a variety of fine jewelry settings.

Color performance and optical behavior are central to the appeal of this ruby, and the vivid intensity of red is notable for its even distribution across the table and crown facets. The mixed brilliant cutting style contributes to a lively balance between brightness and depth of tone, allowing the stone to present strong color saturation without excessive darkening at the edges. Transparency is apparent in face up views, while the included clarity grade indicates the presence of internal features that were considered during cutting to maximize color and weight retention. These inclusions do not obscure the overall visual impact and in many cases contribute to the natural character of the stone. The excellent polish enhances surface reflectivity and delivers crisp facet junctions, supporting both the perceived brilliance and the clarity of the color presentation.

Durability is an important consideration for any ruby intended for regular wear, and on the Mohs scale ruby has a hardness of 9, placing it among the hardest natural gem materials after diamond, which rates 10. This hardness makes ruby significantly more resistant to scratching than common gem species such as topaz which rates 8, quartz which rates 7, and emeralds which generally range around 7 to 7.5 and which are often further compromised by fissures and internal healing. In practical terms the Mohs 9 rating means this ruby is well suited to everyday jewelry applications, including rings and bracelets, provided normal precautions are observed. Heat treatment is a stable and accepted enhancement, and it does not materially reduce the hardness, however routine care is recommended, including cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoiding exposure to harsh chemicals, and inspecting settings periodically to ensure inclusions do not become stress points under impact.

Provenance, treatment disclosure, and suitability for specific settings are relevant to both aesthetic choice and long term value considerations. Mozambique has emerged as an important source of commercial and collectible rubies, often delivering stones with vivid saturation and good crystal sizes, and this specimen reflects that character. The measured depth of 4.32 millimeters relative to the length and width gives balanced proportions that support face up color and stability in a mounting, while the 3.32 carat weight gives substantive presence without requiring an overly large mounting to secure it. The Natural Ruby Company is available to provide additional documentation and high resolution imagery on request, and professional mounting recommendations can be provided to optimize both protection and presentation, recommending secure prong or bezel configurations and routine professional inspection to preserve the stone over time.