What is a Ruby?
In its simplest terms, a ruby is a red gemstone more officially called aluminum oxide. The name ruby comes from the Latin term ruber meaning red and the redness of the stone comes from the presence of the element chromium. The ruby is one of four precious stones, the other being sapphires, diamonds and emeralds. A ruby is part of the corundum family of gemstones and is also sometimes called a red sapphire.
Where are Rubies found?
Natural sources for rubies produce the finest examples of the stone; the main areas for mining rubies include Burma (now called Myanmar), Thailand, Cambodia and in smaller quantities Afghanistan.
Other sources of rubies include Pakistan, US, Africa, Nepal, Vietnam and some states in the Russian republics.
Different Types of Rubies
There are many types of rubies, but in general the most popular one are:
Burmese Rubies
These are one of the finest qualities of rubies and emanate mainly from the Mogok valley region of Burma. Deep red in colour, a key element of these rubies is the fact they have few marks or blemishes, this is unlike rubies from other areas around the world.
Thailand Rubies
These are also high-quality rubies, second only to the Burmese rubies in quality and are mined in regions towards the South-east of Bangkok. They are much darker than the Burmese rubies because in addition to Chromium, they also contains traces of iron. In terms of colour, they are liable to have traces of Brown or Burgundy
Tanzanian Rubies
Mined near the Songea region in Tanzania, the value of these rubies tends to increase as the size reduces and they are red/blue/purple in colour, similar to Garnet.
Madagascan Rubies
This area is another great source of rubies, and these are a newer phenomenon than the other rubies mentioned. The rubies are found in rocks in the Vatomandry region of Madagascar. The rubies tend to be Red, Pink and Orange in terms of colouring and highlights.
Afghan Rubies
The Badakshan and Jagdalek regions of Afghanistan are the common sources for Afghan rubies. The Jagdalek rubies are also red in colour. Due to the recent troubles in Afghanistan, it has not been a widely available source of rubies in recent times.
Main Uses for Rubies
By far the most popular use for rubies is in different types of jewellery such as rings, earrings, necklaces etc. Rubies are also used in lasers for the removal of tattoos and other markings.
The Typical Price of a Ruby
There are many factors which help in determining the price of a ruby; the main factors are:
* Colour – the most valuable rubies are those that are the brightest, a form of red called pigeon blood red. These rubies command a much larger price than other rubies.
* Clarity – no rubies are free from imperfections, but those with fewer marks will command a premium. Beware because a clear flawless ruby may indicate it has been treated to remove imperfections.
* Cut and carat size – in other words, the weight and the cut of the ruby will also have a big bearing on price.
Dependent on the above factors, rubies can cost anywhere from a few dollars to tens of thousands of dollars.
Conclusion
Rubies are very popular for jewellery or as loose gemstones and can be mined from many regions in the world, but in the main, the most plentiful supply is in Asia and Africa. The pigeon blood red rubies are the most valuable because of the deepness of the colour and the few mark and blemishes they have. These rubies are most commonly found in Myanmar (Burma).
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by: Rayaz Siddiqi...He is a well-known writer on a variety of subjects including health, sports, business and real estate. He runs many successful blogs that provide unique and interesting content. He can be reached at: rayaz.siddiqi@gmail.com
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