Ruby

Ruby price and value

In the captivating world of rubies, understanding the factors that influence their value and pricing is essential for making informed decisions when purchasing these precious gemstones.

Color: The most significant factor in determining the value of a ruby is its color. The most desirable hue is a vivid, deep red with a hint of blue, often referred to as "pigeon's blood" red. Rubies with a strong, saturated color command higher prices, while those with pale or overly dark tones are generally less valuable.

Clarity: Rubies, like most gemstones, are evaluated based on their clarity or the presence of inclusions. While it's common for natural rubies to have some inclusions, those with excellent clarity and minimal visible inclusions are considered more valuable.

Carat Weight: As with other gemstones, larger rubies are rarer and generally more valuable. However, it's important to consider the overall quality of the gemstone, as a smaller ruby with exceptional color and clarity can be more valuable than a larger stone with inferior attributes.

Cut: The cut of a ruby can greatly impact its overall beauty and value. A well-cut ruby will showcase the gemstone's color, clarity, and brilliance, while a poorly cut stone can diminish its appeal. Skilled cutting also ensures proper proportions and symmetry, which can further enhance the ruby's value.

Origin: The geographic origin of a ruby can influence its value, with certain locations renowned for producing exceptional stones. Historically, rubies from Myanmar (formerly Burma) have been highly prized for their rich, saturated colors. However, quality rubies from Mozambique, Madagascar, and other sources can also command high prices.

Treatment: Many rubies undergo treatments to improve their color and clarity. While treated rubies are generally more affordable, untreated or minimally treated stones with exceptional quality are rarer and can fetch premium prices.

Ruby prices can vary significantly based on the factors mentioned above, with high-quality stones fetching thousands of dollars per carat. When selecting a ruby, consider the interplay of color, clarity, carat weight, cut, origin, and treatment to make an informed decision and find the perfect gemstone that meets your preferences and budget.

Ruby origins

Embark on a journey through the intriguing world of rubies and explore their storied origins, from the ancient mines of Myanmar to the modern-day discoveries in Mozambique.

Myanmar (Burma): Myanmar has long been synonymous with some of the world's finest rubies. The Mogok Stone Tract, located in the northern region of the country, has been the primary source of these legendary "pigeon's blood" rubies since the 6th century. The distinctive hue of Burmese rubies, a deep red with a slight purplish undertone, has captivated the hearts of gemstone connoisseurs for centuries.

Mozambique: In recent years, Mozambique has emerged as a leading source of high-quality rubies. Discovered in the Montepuez region in 2009, these rubies exhibit a rich red color that rivals their Burmese counterparts. The vast majority of the world's rubies now come from Mozambique, with the country playing a significant role in the global ruby market.

Madagascar: The island nation of Madagascar is known for producing an array of fine gemstones, including rubies. First discovered in the late 1990s, Madagascan rubies originate primarily from the Andilamena and Vatomandry regions. These rubies exhibit a vibrant red hue with slightly orangish undertones and are highly sought after for their brilliance and clarity.

Thailand: Thailand has a long history of ruby mining, with the Chanthaburi and Kanchanaburi regions having produced significant quantities of rubies in the past. While Thai rubies tend to have a darker, more garnet-like color due to higher iron content, they still enjoy popularity in the gemstone market.

Sri Lanka: Known as the "Island of Gems," Sri Lanka has been a source of rubies for over 2,000 years. Sri Lankan rubies, also known as Ceylon rubies, typically exhibit a lighter, more pinkish hue compared to those from Myanmar and Mozambique. Their unique color and transparency make them a popular choice for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.

Tanzania: The Winza ruby deposit in Tanzania, discovered in 2007, has produced some remarkable gemstones with a bright, vivid color. While the output from this region is relatively limited, Tanzanian rubies are admired for their unique beauty and high clarity.

Each of these origins contributes to the enchanting story of rubies and the remarkable diversity found within this beloved gemstone. As you explore our collection of rubies, take a moment to appreciate the incredible journey each stone has taken, from the depths of the earth to the stunning piece of art you now hold in your hands.

Ruby colors

The captivating beauty of rubies lies in their mesmerizing range of colors, which span from deep, velvety reds to vibrant, fiery pinks. We are delighted to share with you the fascinating spectrum of ruby colors and how they contribute to the gemstone's allure and value.

Pigeon's Blood Red: The most prized ruby color is the legendary "pigeon's blood" red, characterized by a deep, vivid red hue with a slight hint of blue. This color is most closely associated with rubies from Myanmar (Burma) and represents the pinnacle of ruby desirability. Rubies with this exceptional color command the highest prices and are cherished by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Crimson Red: Crimson red rubies exhibit a rich, saturated color with a touch of purple or raspberry undertones. These rubies are highly sought after for their intense color and often originate from sources like Mozambique and Madagascar.

Vermilion Red: Vermilion red rubies possess a vibrant, slightly orangish hue that sets them apart from other red varieties. Often found in Sri Lankan and Madagascan rubies, this color variation adds a unique warmth and vivacity to the gemstone.

Pinkish Red: Pinkish red rubies showcase a delicate balance between red and pink tones, creating a charming and romantic appearance. Rubies from Sri Lanka, also known as Ceylon rubies, are particularly known for their pinkish red color. While typically more affordable than their deep red counterparts, pinkish red rubies can still command high prices depending on their overall quality.

Hot Pink: hot pink rubies captivate with their lively, energetic color. Often found in rubies from Madagascar and Tanzania, these gemstones possess a unique appeal that caters to those who prefer a more vibrant and spirited expression of the ruby.

The value of a ruby is greatly influenced by its color, with deeper, more saturated hues generally commanding higher prices. However, personal preference and individual taste play a crucial role in determining the perfect ruby color for you. As you explore our collection of rubies, consider the spectrum of colors available and let your heart guide you towards the gemstone that resonates with your unique style and personality.

Ruby characteristics

Rubies possess a unique combination of characteristics that contribute to their enduring appeal and value.

Hardness: Rubies are composed of the mineral corundum, which is known for its remarkable hardness. With a rating of 9 on the Mohs scale, rubies are the second hardest gemstones after diamonds. This exceptional hardness makes rubies highly resistant to scratches and wear, making them an ideal choice for jewelry that can be worn daily.

Clarity: Clarity is an important aspect of a ruby's value, as it refers to the presence or absence of inclusions within the gemstone. Inclusions are natural imperfections, such as gas bubbles, minerals, or tiny fractures, that can affect a ruby's appearance and overall beauty. While it's common for natural rubies to have some inclusions, stones with excellent clarity and minimal visible inclusions are considered more valuable. The most valuable rubies display a high level of transparency, allowing light to pass through the stone and create a stunning visual effect.

Treatments: To enhance their appearance, rubies often undergo various treatments that can improve their color and clarity. Some common treatments include:

a. Heat Treatment: The most widely accepted treatment for rubies, heat treatment involves exposing the gemstone to high temperatures to improve its color and clarity. This process can dissolve inclusions, remove impurities, and create a more uniform, vibrant hue.

b. Fracture Filling: Some rubies have surface-reaching fractures that can be filled with a substance such as lead glass or resin to enhance their clarity and overall appearance. While fracture-filled rubies are generally more affordable, they can be less durable and may require special care.

c. Lattice Diffusion: This treatment involves heating the ruby with color-causing elements like beryllium or chromium, which diffuse into the gemstone and alter its color. Lattice diffusion can create a more uniform and desirable color, but the resulting gemstones are typically less valuable than untreated or minimally treated stones with similar characteristics.

At Nascendi we only accept heating type of treatment.

When evaluating rubies, it is essential to consider these key characteristics, as they can greatly influence the gemstone's value and appeal. By understanding the nuances of hardness, clarity, and treatments, you can make more informed decisions when selecting the perfect ruby for your collection or a cherished piece of jewelry.

Ruby birthstone and wedding anniversary:

Ruby holds a special significance as both a birthstone and a wedding anniversary gemstone. Its vibrant red hue symbolizes love, passion, and power, making it a fitting choice for these meaningful occasions.

Birthstone: Ruby is the birthstone for those born in the month of July. As a July birthstone, it is believed to bring good fortune, courage, and strength to those who wear it. Rubies make a thoughtful and sentimental gift for friends and loved ones with July birthdays, as they celebrate the warmth and radiance of the summer months.

Wedding Anniversary: Ruby is traditionally associated with the 40th wedding anniversary, also known as the Ruby Anniversary. Gifting a ruby to your spouse on your 40th anniversary symbolizes the deep love, devotion, and passion that has endured throughout your years together. A ruby ring, necklace, or pair of earrings makes a stunning and heartfelt memento of this significant milestone in your marital journey.

Ruby mineral details: