Collection of ruby gemstones on a white background

Colors of Ruby and Its Origins


The most coveted color of ruby is a vibrant, pure red with a hint of blue undertone, often referred to as "pigeon's blood." However, rubies can exhibit a range of red hues, including orangey-red, purplish-red, and pinkish-red, with chromium being the trace element responsible for their color. Historically, Myanmar (formerly Burma), particularly the Mogok Valley, has been renowned for producing some of the world's finest rubies. Today, significant ruby deposits are also found in countries like Thailand, Sri Lanka, Mozambique, and Madagascar.

Two bracelets with red and clear stones on a pink background

Taking Care of your Ruby Jewelry


Taking care of your ruby jewelry is essential to maintain its vibrant color and luster. Clean your ruby pieces gently with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush, rinsing thoroughly afterwards. Avoid exposing your rubies to harsh chemicals or extreme temperature changes, as these can potentially damage the stone. Store your ruby jewelry separately in a soft pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches from harder gemstones or metals. While ruby is a durable gemstone (Mohs hardness of 9), it's still advisable to remove ruby rings before engaging in activities that could cause impact.

Two red heart-shaped crystals on a white background

Understanding the Pricing of Rubies


Understanding the price of rubies involves several key factors. The most significant is color; a vivid, pure red, often called "pigeon's blood," commands the highest value. Clarity, or the absence of inclusions that affect brilliance, also greatly influences price. Larger rubies are rarer and thus more expensive per carat. Finally, origin plays a role, with rubies from historically significant mines like those in Myanmar (Burma) often fetching a premium. Consequently, fine-quality natural rubies can be quite valuable.

Faceted red gemstone and rough red gemstone on a pink background

Ruby Gemstone Meaning


Ruby, often called the "king of gemstones," has long been associated with powerful symbolism. It is believed to represent passion, love, and courage, igniting vitality and promoting positive energy. Throughout history, rubies have been revered by royalty and warriors alike, symbolizing power, protection, and strength. This vibrant red gem is also thought to inspire motivation, set goals, and bring a sense of joy and enthusiasm to its wearer.

Ruby FAQs

What is fine jewelry?

What is fine jewelry?

Fine jewelry refers to jewelry crafted fromprecious metalslike gold, platinum, or sterling silver and often set withgenuine gemstonessuch as diamonds, sapphires, rubies, or emeralds. Unlike fashion or costume jewelry, fine jewelry is designed to bedurable, timeless, and valuable, making it suitable for everyday wear as well as special occasions. It often holds bothemotional and financial value, passed down as heirlooms through generations. Because of its craftsmanship and quality, fine jewelry requires propercare and maintenanceto preserve its brilliance. It is considered aninvestment in beauty, luxury, and meaning.

What is the rarest gemstone?

What is the rarest gemstone?

The rarest gemstone in the world is often considered to bepainite, a deep brownish-red crystal that was once so scarce only a handful of specimens existed. Other gems likered beryl, alexandrite, and musgravitealso rank among the rarest due to their extreme scarcity and limited sources. Rarity depends not only on how hard a gem is to find in nature but also on thequality of color, clarity, and size. Because of their uniqueness, these gemstones often commandextraordinary pricesin the market. Collectors and jewelry enthusiasts treasure them for theirbeauty, mystery, and exclusivity.

How are gemstones cut?

How are gemstones cut?

Gemstones are cut through a precise process that transforms rough crystals into sparkling jewels. First, the stone is carefully examined to decide the best shape and orientation for maximizing color, brilliance, and size. It’s then sawed into a workable piece, shaped using grinding wheels, and refined with different abrasives. Facets are added with exact angles to reflect light beautifully, enhancing the gem’s fire and brilliance. Finally, the stone is polished to a mirror-like finish, ready to be set into jewelry. This art of gemstone cutting, calledlapidary, requires both skill and patience.

Where can you buy gemstones?

Where can you buy gemstones?

You can buy gemstones fromreputable jewelry stores, both online and offline, that specialize in certified gems. Many people also purchase fromgemstone dealers, auction houses, or gem shows, where a wide variety of stones are available. Online marketplaces can offer convenience and selection, but it’s important to look forcertification and return policiesto ensure authenticity. Some travelers buy gemstones directly frommining regionsor local artisans, though this requires expertise to avoid imitations. The key is to buy from atrusted source with transparent informationabout the gem’s origin, quality, and value.