Ruby
About
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, known for its red colour caused by the presence of chromium. As one of the most prized gemstones in the world, ruby symbolises passion, power, and love. Renowned for its durability and brilliance, ruby has been cherished throughout history in royal jewellery and sacred artifacts. Major sources of ruby include Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Mozambique, and Sri Lanka.
Birthstones & Anniversaries
Ruby is the birthstone for July and is traditionally given for the 15th and 40th anniversaries, symbolising love, vitality, and protection.
Crystal Healing Energy
The overarching theme of ruby is passion and vitality. Ruby is believed to stimulate the heart, promote self-confidence, and inspire motivation. Its fiery energy is thought to bring strength, enthusiasm, and determination, making it a powerful ally in overcoming challenges.
Facts
Durable Gemstone: With a Mohs hardness of 9, ruby is second only to diamond in durability, making it ideal for everyday wear.
Pigeon’s Blood Ruby: The most sought-after rubies are called "pigeon’s blood" for their vivid red hue with a slight blue undertone.
Historical Significance: Rubies were believed to protect warriors in battle, and they symbolised wealth and power in ancient cultures.
Fluorescence: Rubies often exhibit fluorescence under UV light, enhancing their red colour.
Geographical Sources: Myanmar is famous for producing some of the finest rubies, while newer sources like Mozambique are gaining prominence.
Science
Mineral: Corundum
Crystal System: Trigonal
Chemistry: Al₂O₃ with chromium traces
Colour: Red to purplish-red
Refractive Index: 1.762 to 1.770
Birefringence: 0.008 to 0.010
Specific Gravity: 3.97 to 4.05
Mohs Hardness: 9
TreatmentsRubies are often treated to enhance their colour and clarity. Common treatments include:
Heat Treatment: Intensifies colour and reduces inclusions; widely accepted in the market.
Fracture Filling: Glass or resin is used to fill surface cracks, improving clarity.
Lead Glass Filling: Enhances heavily fractured rubies, but these stones require special care.
SyntheticsSynthetic rubies are widely produced using methods like flame fusion, flux growth, and hydrothermal synthesis. Synthetic rubies have the same physical and chemical properties as natural rubies and are commonly used in jewellery and industrial applications.
ImitationsRuby imitations include red spinel, garnet, and glass. These materials mimic ruby’s appearance but lack its hardness and refractive properties.
similar materialsSpinel: Often found in similar colours but lacks the same birefringence and crystal structure.
Garnet: Red garnet resembles ruby but is softer and has a different crystal system.
Tourmaline: Red tourmaline (rubellite) can be mistaken for ruby but is more fragile and less vibrant.