All About Ruby
All About Ruby
Rubies are one of the world’s most coveted gemstones, known for their vivid red hues and rich symbolism. At Paramount Jewelers, we’re excited to guide you through everything you need to know about this magnificent stone, from its captivating beauty to its fascinating history.
The Beauty of Rubies
Rubies are famous for their intense red hue, which can range from a light pinkish red to a deep, blood-red shade. The most valuable rubies exhibit a pure, vivid red known as “pigeon’s blood red.” This color is highly sought after and commands top prices in the gemstone market.
How Rubies Are Formed
Rubies are formed under high pressure and temperature conditions deep within the Earth’s crust. The formation process occurs over millions of years, and rubies are often found in alluvial deposits or in metamorphic rocks. Major sources of rubies include:
● Myanmar (Burma): Known for producing the finest rubies with exceptional color and clarity.
● Thailand: A significant source of rubies, known for both high-quality stones and vibrant colors.
● Sri Lanka: Produces a variety of rubies, including some with unique hues and qualities.
● Madagascar: Offers a range of ruby colors and is an emerging source for high-quality gemstones.
● Thailand: A significant source of rubies, known for both high-quality stones and vibrant colors.
● Sri Lanka: Produces a variety of rubies, including some with unique hues and qualities.
● Madagascar: Offers a range of ruby colors and is an emerging source for high-quality gemstones.
The Four Cs of Ruby
When evaluating rubies, the Four Cs — color, clarity, cut, and carat weight — are crucial in determining the stone’s quality and value.
1. Color
The color of a ruby is the most critical factor in determining its value. The best rubies have a rich, intense red color with a slight hint of blue. The ideal ruby color is known as “pigeon’s blood red,” characterized by a deep, bright red hue with excellent saturation and tone.
● Hue: The hue of a ruby should be a pure red, without too much brown or orange.
● Saturation: A ruby’s color should be vivid and strong.
● Tone: A good ruby has a medium to medium-dark tone.
The color of a ruby is the most critical factor in determining its value. The best rubies have a rich, intense red color with a slight hint of blue. The ideal ruby color is known as “pigeon’s blood red,” characterized by a deep, bright red hue with excellent saturation and tone.
● Hue: The hue of a ruby should be a pure red, without too much brown or orange.
● Saturation: A ruby’s color should be vivid and strong.
● Tone: A good ruby has a medium to medium-dark tone.
2. Clarity
Clarity refers to the presence of inclusions or imperfections within the ruby. High-quality rubies have few visible inclusions. Some rubies contain natural inclusions called “silk,” which can actually enhance their color and overall appearance.
● Inclusions: Rubies can have inclusions like needles or gas bubbles.
● Natural Characteristics: Minor inclusions are expected and do not necessarily detract from a ruby’s beauty.
Clarity refers to the presence of inclusions or imperfections within the ruby. High-quality rubies have few visible inclusions. Some rubies contain natural inclusions called “silk,” which can actually enhance their color and overall appearance.
● Inclusions: Rubies can have inclusions like needles or gas bubbles.
● Natural Characteristics: Minor inclusions are expected and do not necessarily detract from a ruby’s beauty.
3. Cut
The cut of a ruby affects how well it displays its color and brilliance. Common cuts for rubies include oval, round, and cushion cuts. A well-cut ruby will have symmetrical facets that enhance the gemstone’s natural beauty.
● Proportions: A well-cut ruby will have balanced proportions to maximize light reflection.
● Symmetry: Look for a ruby with evenly aligned facets and a consistent shape.
The cut of a ruby affects how well it displays its color and brilliance. Common cuts for rubies include oval, round, and cushion cuts. A well-cut ruby will have symmetrical facets that enhance the gemstone’s natural beauty.
● Proportions: A well-cut ruby will have balanced proportions to maximize light reflection.
● Symmetry: Look for a ruby with evenly aligned facets and a consistent shape.
4. Carat Weight
Carat weight measures the size of the ruby, with larger stones being more valuable. However, carat weight alone does not determine the value; color, clarity, and cut are also important.
● Larger Stones: Bigger rubies are rarer and more valuable.
● Price: The price of rubies increases with carat weight and quality.
Carat weight measures the size of the ruby, with larger stones being more valuable. However, carat weight alone does not determine the value; color, clarity, and cut are also important.
● Larger Stones: Bigger rubies are rarer and more valuable.
● Price: The price of rubies increases with carat weight and quality.
The Symbolism of Rubies
Rubies have been treasured throughout history for their beauty and symbolic meanings. They are associated with love, passion, and power.
● Love and Passion: Rubies symbolize intense emotions and are often used in romantic jewelry.
● Courage and Strength: Historically, rubies were believed to grant bravery and strength to their wearers.
● Prosperity: In some cultures, rubies are thought to bring good fortune and success.
● Love and Passion: Rubies symbolize intense emotions and are often used in romantic jewelry.
● Courage and Strength: Historically, rubies were believed to grant bravery and strength to their wearers.
● Prosperity: In some cultures, rubies are thought to bring good fortune and success.
Choosing the Perfect Ruby
When selecting a ruby, consider the following factors to find a stone that meets your needs and preferences:
1. Color Preference
Decide on the shade of red that you prefer. While “pigeon’s blood red” is the most popular, other shades of red are also beautiful and valuable.
2. Clarity and Inclusions
Choose a ruby with clarity that meets your expectations. While some inclusions are natural, high-quality rubies have minimal visible flaws.
3. Cut and Setting
Consider the cut of the ruby and how it will be set in jewelry. A well-cut ruby will enhance the overall design of the piece.
4. Carat Weight and Budget
Determine your budget and find a ruby that offers the best value for your money. Larger rubies are more expensive, so balance carat weight with quality.
Caring for Your Ruby Jewelry
To ensure your ruby jewelry remains beautiful for years, follow these care tips:
Cleaning
Clean your ruby jewelry regularly using a mild soap solution and warm water. Use a soft brush to remove dirt, and then dry with a soft cloth.
Storage
Store your rubies separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches. Use a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box for safe storage.
Avoiding Damage
Remove your ruby jewelry before engaging in activities that could cause damage, such as sports or household chores. Avoid exposing rubies to harsh chemicals.
Clean your ruby jewelry regularly using a mild soap solution and warm water. Use a soft brush to remove dirt, and then dry with a soft cloth.
Storage
Store your rubies separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches. Use a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box for safe storage.
Avoiding Damage
Remove your ruby jewelry before engaging in activities that could cause damage, such as sports or household chores. Avoid exposing rubies to harsh chemicals.
Discover the Perfect Gemstone Jewelry in Frisco, TX.
Understanding the properties of gemstones — color, clarity, cut, and carat weight — can help you appreciate their beauty and make informed choices. At Paramount Jewelers, we offer a selection of diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies, each chosen for its exceptional quality and charm. With proper care and knowledge, you can enjoy these gemstones for years to come. Visit Paramount Jewelers to discover the best piece for your collection.