Discover the beauty and value of rubies with this expert Ruby Gemstone Guide. Learn about color, cut, clarity & why rubies are a timeless investment in jewelry.
For centuries, rubies have been celebrated as symbols of passion, love, and power. Their deep red hues, ranging from rich crimson to vibrant scarlet, make them one of the most coveted gemstones in the world. Known as the “King of Gemstones,” rubies hold a special place in history, adorning royal crowns, engagement rings, and heirloom jewelry. Whether set in a classic solitaire or a modern halo design, this gemstone radiates a fiery brilliance that captivates at first glance.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What Are Rubies?
Rubies are a type of corundum. Pure corundum is colorless, but rubies get their vivid red hue from trace amounts of chromium (Cr). Like other precious gemstones, miners sift through tons of rock to find rough, uncut rubies suitable for faceting.
Most rubies come from Myanmar (Burma) and Mozambique. Burmese rubies are the gold standard, known for their rich red color and historical significance. Furthermore, Mozambique rubies tend to be slightly darker and clearer. Other sources also produce rubies with a range of colors and inclusions, with some regions having distinct characteristics.
When choosing a ruby, finding one with perfect color, clarity, and cut over one carat is extremely rare—especially if it’s untreated. Furthermore, Over 97% of mined rubies undergo treatment to enhance their beauty.
The Natural Ruby Company specializes in helping you find the perfect ruby based on the 4Cs of gemstone buying: color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Let us guide you to a ruby that matches your taste and style.
Ruby Color: A Spectrum of Fiery Elegance
The distinction between ruby and pink sapphire is one of the most debated topics in the gem world. What some markets classify as a pink sapphire, others may recognize as a ruby. Moreover, Every ruby is a unique blend of colors, making each stone truly one of a kind.
Rubies display a range of red hues, from pinkish-red and purplish-red to orangish-red and the coveted pure ruby red. Furthermore, Some rare rubies even feature a mesmerizing star effect, known as star rubies, which we proudly offer at The Natural Ruby Company.
The Three Key Elements of Ruby Color
Understanding a ruby's color means analyzing its hue, tone, and saturation—three essential components that determine the stone's vibrancy and desirability.
1. Hue – The True Color
Hue refers to the actual color of the ruby, whether red, purplish-red, or orangish-red. While rubies are always within the red spectrum, subtle undertones can influence their overall appearance.
- Purplish Red – Adds depth and richness to the ruby's color.
- Pure Red – The ideal, most sought-after hue.
- Orangish Red – Warmer and slightly softer in tone.
2. Tone – Light vs. Dark
Tone describes how light or dark the ruby appears. Unlike other gems, rubies never have a light tone—those are classified as pink sapphires.
- Medium Tone – A balanced and vibrant red.
- Dark Tone – Deep, rich, and intense in color.
3. Saturation – Color Intensity
Saturation defines how pure or muted the red color is. The higher the saturation, the more vivid and valuable the ruby.
- Brownish Red – Less vibrant, with visible brown undertones.
- Pure Red – The most desirable, with an intense, fiery glow.
A high-quality ruby showcases a strong red hue, balanced tone, and high saturation, creating a gemstone full of brilliance and allure.
Understanding Ruby Cuts
A ruby’s cut enhances its brilliance, maximizing its color and clarity while preserving as much weight as possible. Moreover, Since each ruby is unique, skilled gem cutters tailor every facet to bring out the stone’s natural fire and beauty.
1. Popular Ruby Cuts
Each cut affects how light interacts with the gemstone, influencing its sparkle and depth. Some of the most sought-after shapes include:
- Round Cut – A timeless classic that enhances brilliance.
- Cushion Cut – A vintage-inspired shape with soft, rounded edges.
- Oval Cut – Elongates the stone, showcasing vibrant color.
- Pear Cut – A teardrop shape that combines elegance with uniqueness.
- Marquise Cut – A striking, elongated cut that maximizes surface area.
- Trillion Cut – A triangular shape with sharp brilliance.
- Heart Cut – A romantic, symbolic shape perfect for special occasions.
2. How Cut Affects Ruby Brilliance
Since rubies are pleochroic (showing different colors from different angles), expert gem cutters carefully orient the stone to display the most vivid red hue. Moreover, They also consider inclusions, ensuring the cut enhances the gem’s clarity rather than exposing imperfections.
3. Step Cuts vs. Unique Cuts
- Modified Step Cut – Used in most ruby shapes, featuring parallel facets to enhance depth.
- Radiant & Princess Cuts – Less common but offer a dazzling, geometric brilliance.
- Emerald Cut – The only shape with a distinctive faceting pattern, creating a sleek, elegant look.
Selecting the perfect ruby cut ensures your gemstone radiates maximum beauty, highlighting its fiery red glow and unique character.
Understanding Ruby Gemstone Clarity – What to Look For
Clarity plays a crucial role in a ruby’s value, brilliance, and overall appeal. Moreover, While high-clarity rubies are rare, most natural rubies contain inclusions—tiny internal features formed during the gem’s natural growth. These inclusions, known as "silk," can even enhance a ruby’s beauty by scattering light and adding depth.
1. Natural Ruby Inclusions & Their Impact
- Minimal Inclusions – Highly transparent rubies with barely visible inclusions are exceptionally rare and command premium prices.
- Fine Silk Inclusions – Soft, needle-like inclusions that can create a velvety texture, often seen in high-quality Burmese rubies.
- Crystal & Feather Inclusions – Small mineral deposits or fracture-like formations that are common in most rubies.
- Fingerprint Inclusions – Patterned formations resembling human fingerprints, unique to each ruby.
2. Inclusions & Price Factors
The placement, type, and size of inclusions significantly influence a ruby’s value.
- Centrally located inclusions can affect transparency and lower the price.
- Edge inclusions near the girdle are less noticeable and may be concealed within a jewelry setting.
- Silky inclusions can enhance color saturation, making the ruby appear richer in hue.
3. How Clarity Appears in Jewelry
Once a ruby is set into a ring, pendant, or earrings, most inclusions become less visible to the naked eye. Moreover, High-magnification photos can make inclusions seem more pronounced than they actually are. In real life, a well-cut ruby with strategically placed inclusions can still radiate breathtaking beauty and depth.
Common Inclusions in Rubies – What They Reveal
Inclusions in rubies are more than just internal features—they tell the story of a gem’s formation and authenticity. Moreover, They also help experts determine whether a ruby has been heat-treated, a widely accepted practice used to enhance color and clarity.
1. How Inclusions Indicate Heat Treatment
- Unaltered Silk Inclusions – Fine rutile needle inclusions (also known as "silk") indicate that a ruby is likely untreated.
- Partially Melted Silk – Suggests mild heat treatment, enhancing color while keeping some natural inclusions intact.
- Fully Dissolved Inclusions – A sign of significant heat treatment, where inclusions disappear, resulting in higher clarity but also altering the ruby’s natural structure.
2. Marble-Hosted vs. Basalt-Hosted Rubies
The environment where a ruby forms plays a major role in its appearance:
- Marble-Hosted Rubies – Found in regions like Myanmar (Burma), these rubies have a brighter, softer red due to natural fluorescence and silk inclusions.
- Basalt-Hosted Rubies – Commonly sourced from Mozambique and Thailand, these rubies appear darker and clearer with fewer silk inclusions.
3. Inclusions as Proof of Authenticity
Unlike synthetic rubies, natural rubies always contain some form of inclusions. Furthermore, The right balance of inclusions can enhance the beauty and uniqueness of each gemstone, making it truly one of a kind.
Understanding Carat Weight – Size, Rarity, and Value
Carat weight is one of the biggest factors influencing a ruby’s price and overall desirability. Unlike diamonds, where size alone can dictate value, rubies have unique formation challenges that make larger stones exceptionally rare.
1. The Rarity of Large Rubies
Most rubies do not naturally grow over a carat due to the presence of chromium, the element that gives them their rich red color. Furthermore, Chromium also limits the crystal’s size, often resulting in shallower, tabular rough that restricts cutters from faceting large, high-quality stones.
2. Carat Weight & Jewelry Suitability
- Smaller Rubies (Under 1 Carat) – Perfect for ruby earrings, delicate rings, and accent stones in fine jewelry.
- Larger Rubies (Over 1 Carat) – More suitable for statement rings, heirloom-quality pendants, and collector’s pieces due to their rarity and higher value.
3. Why a 2-Carat Ruby Costs More Than Two 1-Carat Rubies
The price-per-carat increases exponentially with size because large rubies are far rarer. A single 2-carat ruby will always be worth significantly more than two 1-carat rubies of the same quality. Unlike color or clarity, carat weight cannot be artificially increased—only lost through re-cutting or polishing.
Choosing the Perfect Ruby gemstone – Personal Preference Over Industry Standards
When it comes to selecting the perfect ruby, it’s not just about the "ideal" ruby as defined by the industry—it’s about finding the stone that speaks to you. While industry standards and expert grading can guide you, your personal preferences should be at the core of your decision-making.
1. Individual Preference Drives the Choice
No two rubies are alike. Each gem has a unique combination of clarity, color, cut, and weight. Moreover, While one person may prefer a vivid, pure red ruby, another might be drawn to a ruby with more undertones of purple or orange. The beauty of a ruby is in the eye of the beholder.
2. Clarity and Cut Are Key, But Color Is King
Though clarity and cut play a significant role in the overall beauty of a ruby, color remains the most crucial factor in determining both the visual appeal and value of the stone. Whether it’s a stone with minimal inclusions or one with character-filled silk or rutile needles, each inclusion tells a different story.
3. Ruby as Unique as a Fingerprint
Just as each person’s fingerprint is distinct, so is each ruby. Gemologists may use lab documentation to track rubies, but your connection with the stone—from the color to its inclusions—will make it uniquely yours. Trust your instincts when choosing the ruby that resonates with you most.
The History of Rubies in Jewellery
1. Ancient Beliefs and Royalty
Rubies have captivated civilizations for centuries, holding immense cultural and historical significance. In ancient Asia, particularly in India, rubies were believed to possess protective powers. Kings and warriors would embed rubies in their armour, believing that the gemstones could protect them in battle. Royalty across the world also valued rubies as symbols of power, prosperity, and status. These gemstones were often set into crowns, necklaces, and rings to display their wealth and command.
2. The Glitter of the Victorian Era
During the Victorian era, rubies were prominent in both fine jewellery and engagement rings. Moreover, Their deep red hue, reminiscent of love and passion, made rubies the ideal choice for romantic jewellery, while their rarity solidified their position as an elite gemstone. Victorian jewellery was known for its intricate designs, and rubies were often paired with diamonds, sapphires, and other precious gems to create opulent, timeless pieces.
3. Rubies as Symbols of Protection and Passion
Through the ages, rubies have remained synonymous with both passion and protection. In ancient cultures, they were thought to grant strength and vitality to the wearer. Today, while rubies continue to be prized for their beauty and rarity, their symbolic connection to romantic love and timeless elegance makes them a popular choice for engagement rings and wedding jewellery. Whether in a historic crown or a modern ring, rubies carry with them a legacy of allure and mystique.
Platinum:
Platinum is one of the finest metals for a ruby engagement ring, thanks to its strength, elegant appearance, and long-lasting durability. Moreover, This naturally white metal highlights the rich red color of a ruby, allowing the gemstone to shine brightly. Its hypoallergenic properties make it a great option for those with sensitive skin, while its robustness ensures that your ruby remains securely set for a lifetime. Platinum’s timeless beauty and durability make it a classic choice for a luxurious and lasting engagement ring.
18ct White Gold:
For a sleek, contemporary look, 18ct white gold makes a perfect backdrop for your ruby. Moreover, The cool tones of white gold enhance the ruby's vivid red color without competing with the stone. This versatile metal complements a variety of styles and settings, from classic to modern. Its subtle sheen gives the ring a clean, polished look, while still allowing the ruby to take center stage. If you're looking for something modern yet timeless, white gold is an ideal choice to complement your ruby engagement ring.
18ct Yellow Gold:
The rich, warm tones of 18ct yellow gold provide a stunning contrast to the ruby’s deep red color. Known for its classic appeal, yellow gold accentuates the ruby’s intensity, creating a look that is both luxurious and timeless. This metal is perfect for those who appreciate traditional beauty and a vintage-inspired aesthetic. The pairing of yellow gold and ruby brings out the stone’s rich color while offering a warm, inviting glow.
18ct Rose Gold:
For a romantic and distinctive look, 18ct rose gold is an ideal choice. The warm, pinkish hue of rose gold enhances the ruby’s rich red color, creating a softer, more romantic vibe. Rose gold’s popularity has surged in recent years, offering a unique and modern twist on the classic ruby engagement ring. It’s a perfect choice for those who want their engagement ring to stand out while exuding elegance and romantic charm.
Absolutely! Choosing a ruby for an engagement ring is a bold, sophisticated decision that brings together elegance and deep symbolism. Furthermore, Known for their stunning deep red color, rubies traditionally symbolize love, passion, and commitment—qualities that perfectly align with the significance of an engagement.
A Durable and Unique Option
Rubies are not only beautiful but incredibly durable as well. With a Mohs hardness rating of 9, they are second only to diamonds in terms of scratch resistance, making them a practical choice for everyday wear. This makes rubies an excellent option for those who want a ring that will last for a lifetime, symbolizing both enduring love and strength.
A Personalized Touch
For those who desire something unique, a ruby engagement ring is a stunning alternative to traditional diamond rings. It offers a personal and distinct touch, allowing couples to embrace a gemstone that speaks to their individuality and the timeless beauty of their relationship. With its rich symbolism and unmatched durability, a ruby engagement ring stands as a meaningful and unforgettable choice.
Rubies are durable, but maintaining their stunning beauty requires some simple care. Here’s how to keep your ruby jewelry looking its best:
1. Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning ensures that your ruby retains its natural brilliance. Use warm soapy water and a soft cloth to gently clean your rubies. Furthermore, Avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they could harm the stone or the setting.
2. Safe Storage
When not wearing your ruby jewelry, store it in a soft pouch or a lined box. This will protect it from scratches or damage caused by other gemstones or metals. Proper storage ensures that your rubies stay beautiful and retain their value for years to come.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your ruby jewelry looking radiant and timeless.
Yes, rubies are incredibly durable, with a Mohs hardness rating of 9, which makes them suitable for everyday wear. Moreover, Their strength ensures that they can withstand daily activities, making them a great option for engagement rings or statement pieces. However, to preserve their beauty and integrity, it’s important to follow proper care and maintenance practices, such as cleaning them regularly and storing them safely when not in use.
The cost of a ruby can vary significantly based on several factors, including its quality, size, and origin. On average, high-quality rubies can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds per carat. Factors such as color, clarity, and whether the ruby is heat-treated or untreated also influence the price. Moreover, The rarer the ruby, the higher its value, making it a unique and valuable investment.