The World Of Gemstones: A Feature On Rubies.
COLOR JARGON: Only the RED variety of the mineral species called CORUNDUM (pronounced core-run-dum) is termed a RUBY (whereas all the other colors are classified as Sapphires).
BIRTHSTONE: RUBY is the birthstone for July birthdays
PRICING: $$$$$
Natural Rubies are among the most valuable gemstones in the world.
COLOR is the most essential factor with Rubies, and when these gems are richly and evenly saturated with the natural “pigeon blood red” color; you have a winner! In addition, if it has good CLARITY & brilliance combined with a finely proportioned CUT, it will drive the prices higher. CARAT SIZE (anything that is 3 carats and up) with the above mentioned properties tend to be more rare than comparably-sized diamonds.
BUYERS BEWARE:
Like Sapphires, there are several lab-created and synthetic options, so you must ensure that your purchase has been verified to be authentic. Keep in mind that “heat treatments” are common, yet permanent enhancements but should always be disclosed by the seller.
Interesting Facts:
“Red” in Latin; a Ruby is a symbol of passion, love and romance
The Bible mentions the Ruby 4 times attributing it to beauty & wisdom
Ancient Hindus regarded the Ruby as “The King of Gems" and believed that it granted rebirth to emperors
Back in the day, eastern warriors possessed rubies as talismans in to make them invincible in battle, often inserting them into their flesh for protection
The world's largest ever Ruby was the Liberty Bell Ruby weighing about 8,500 carats! This single piece was carved into a bell shape, surrounded by diamonds and topped by an eagle to commemorate the 1976 Bicentennial celebration. Stolen in a famous jewelry heist, the stone has never been recovered!
If you would like to see another Ruby marvel, head on over to the Museum of Natural History in Manhattan to view the 100+ carat DeLong Star Ruby. Stolen, and then recovered in what was considered “The Jewelry Heist of the Century”, you can read more about this fascinating story published in the Smithsonian. “How Three Amateur Jewel Thieves Made Off With New York’s Most Precious Gems"
The “Black Prince’s Ruby” that is front and center of the Imperial State Crown of in England is not a Ruby at all, but another gemstone called a Spinel! Read more on Wikipedia: "Black Prince's Ruby"
If you enjoyed this blurb about Rubies and would like to know more about any other gemstones, send me an email, I am all ears!
