Natural Ruby – Red Gemstone with Powerful Fire

Known for their fiery red color which symbolizes passion and love, rubies are in perennial demand. This July birthstone is considered more precious and beautiful than any other gemstone, and hence owning one is definitely a pride.

PHOTO BY FLICKR.COM/SPICYBEAR/

Natural Ruby - The Color and Characteristics

A natural ruby is one that forms in the natural environment without any human interference. It belongs to the corundum family of minerals and is mostly red in color, varying from shades of very light pink to deep red. Some rubies are brownish red and purplish red in color. A natural ruby is often treated with heat to enhance its clarity and color. A stone of any other color belonging to the corundum family is called a sapphire. A natural ruby has needle-like rutile inclusions that distinguishes it from synthetic ones. Although the ruby is a durable and hard gemstone, it can still chip and break due to rough handling.

Burmese Ruby - Earmarked for Excellence

A Burmese ruby is renowned for its striking color and beauty. It is also called “Pigeon’s blood ruby.” While Burmese rubies are of lesser carat, a huge flawless Burmese ruby can command millions of dollars. Although natural ruby deposits of varying quality are found all over the world, Burma is considered to be the main source of high-quality rubies. Burma’s Magok Valley in olden days was known for its finest rubies. In recent days, Mong Hsu area of Burma is known for its high-grade rubies.

Ruby price - Affordable for the Affluent

Similar to diamonds, the ruby price depends upon the cut, color, carat, and clarity. Though they may look similar, each jewelry piece will command a different price due to the 4 C's. Transparent rubies demand a higher value while opaque and semi-opaque ones are valued less. Large transparent rubies are very rare and often exceed the price of any other gemstone. When you buy high-quality natural rubies, make sure you get a report from a qualified gem laboratory that certifies quality of the gem. Be sure to read the label before you buy. The labels may describe them as natural, synthetic, treated, or simulated. Synthetic rubies created in a laboratory are of a lesser value and are more affordable to buy than its natural counterparts. Such synthetic rubies look the same as natural rubies to an untrained eye, but a gemologist or an experienced jeweller can easily identify them.Photo Source : flickr.com/spicybear/