How Do You Tell a Good Ruby?
Rubies have captivated hearts for centuries, their fiery glow symbolizing passion, wealth, and power. But with so many variations on the market, how do you tell a good ruby? Whether you're searching for the perfect ruby ring or a dazzling ruby pendant, understanding what sets a fine ruby apart is key to making a wise investment.
Discerning the quality of a ruby requires attention to several essential factors, including color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Let’s explore how to distinguish a high-quality ruby from an ordinary one.
Color: The Heart of a Ruby
Among all gemstones, color is perhaps the most defining characteristic of a ruby. The finest rubies exhibit a rich, deep red hue, often described as “pigeon blood red.” This term refers to a pure, vibrant red with a hint of blue undertones, creating an intense saturation that is neither too dark nor too light.
Rubies with secondary hues of orange or purple may still be beautiful but are often considered less valuable. When shopping for a ruby, prioritize stones with vivid, saturated red tones that remain consistent across the gem.
Clarity: Natural Beauty and Inclusions
Unlike diamonds, which are prized for their flawless clarity, rubies typically contain inclusions—tiny imperfections formed naturally within the gemstone. These inclusions, known as “silk,” can actually enhance a ruby’s appearance by diffusing light and creating a soft, glowing effect.
However, the best rubies are “eye-clean,” meaning they have no visible inclusions when viewed without magnification. Avoid stones with large, noticeable inclusions that affect transparency, as these can diminish the gem’s brilliance.
Cut: Unlocking a Ruby’s Inner Fire
A well-cut ruby maximizes its natural brilliance and color. The ideal cut balances symmetry and proportion, ensuring that light enters and exits the stone in a way that enhances its fiery glow. Poorly cut rubies may appear dull or lifeless, regardless of their color.
Popular ruby cuts include oval, cushion, and round shapes, each designed to highlight the gemstone’s depth and sparkle. Whether set in an elegant ruby bracelet or a stunning pair of ruby earrings, a well-cut stone will always stand out.
Carat Weight: The Bigger, the Rarer
Larger rubies are exceptionally rare, making carat weight a significant factor in pricing. While a small, high-quality ruby can be just as striking as a larger one, stones above one carat in size with excellent color and clarity are especially prized.
Unlike diamonds, where carat weight often takes center stage, a ruby’s value is primarily determined by its color. A smaller, intensely colored ruby will typically be more valuable than a larger, paler stone.
Treatments and Certification
Many rubies undergo heat treatment to enhance their color and clarity. This process is widely accepted in the industry, but untreated rubies with natural, vivid hues are the most valuable.
When purchasing a ruby, always request a certification from a reputable gemological institute. Certification verifies a ruby’s authenticity, treatment history, and overall quality, ensuring you make a well-informed purchase.
Origin: Does It Matter?
Rubies are found in various locations worldwide, with Myanmar (Burma) producing some of the most sought-after specimens. Burmese rubies are famed for their intense color and exceptional quality.
However, while origin can influence a ruby’s value, it should not be the sole deciding factor. Always prioritize the gem’s individual characteristics over its country of origin.
Finding the Perfect Ruby
Whether you're looking for a timeless ruby jewelry piece or an investment-worthy gemstone, understanding what defines a good ruby will help you choose wisely. A ruby with rich color, minimal inclusions, a brilliant cut, and proper certification is a treasure that will last a lifetime.
At Robinson's Jewelers, we offer an exquisite collection of rubies that meet the highest standards of beauty and quality. Explore our curated selection and discover the ruby that speaks to your heart.