What Color Ruby is Most Valuable? (Hint: It's Not Just Red & This One Is Pricier Than Diamonds!)

Let’s be real, when you think ‘ruby,’ you picture a dazzling red gem that could probably power a small spaceship with its sheer fabulousness. But here’s the plot twist that even seasoned jewelry lovers sometimes miss: not all red rubies are created equal. In fact, the difference between a ‘nice red’ ruby and the world’s most valuable color can be millions of dollars. It’s the difference between a cute summer fling and a lifelong, red-carpet-worthy love affair. So, before you start browsing our stunning collection of ruby jewelry or dreaming about that perfect ruby ring, let’s decode the secret language of ruby color. Trust me, knowing this will make you feel like a gemologist who also happens to have impeccable taste.

Imagine walking into a room wearing a ruby so perfect, it makes everyone else’s jewels look like they’re just trying too hard. That’s the power of understanding value. It’s not just about carat weight—oh no, darling. With rubies, color is king, queen, and the entire royal court. The most prized color in the ruby universe has a name so poetic it sounds like it belongs in a fairy tale: Pigeon’s Blood Red. No, it’s not named after anything grim (we promise); it’s named for the vivid, pure red hue seen in the blood of a white pigeon. It’s a saturated, medium-dark tone of red with a slight bluish or purplish secondary hue that makes the gem seem to glow from within, like it’s holding a tiny fire. This color is exceptionally rare, found primarily in the legendary mines of Myanmar (Burma). A top-quality Pigeon’s Blood ruby can command prices per carat that soar high above even a flawless diamond. Now that’s a statement.

Beyond “Red”: The Ruby Color Spectrum Explained

Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum (sapphires are their siblings), and they get their color from trace amounts of chromium. More chromium generally means a richer red, but too much can make the gem appear dark and muddy. It’s a delicate dance of chemistry and light. Here’s a quick, funny breakdown of the ruby rainbow (or should we say, red-bow?):

The A-List (Pigeon’s Blood): The celebrity of rubies. Vibrant, saturated, with that magical glowing effect. Often accompanied by a gemological certificate that basically says, “I’m expensive, love me.” You’ll find gems of this caliber set in pieces from our most exquisite brands like Van Cleef & Arpels or Oscar Heyman.

The Leading Role (Vivid Red): Still absolutely stunning and deeply valuable. A pure, strong red without any significant brown or orange modifiers. Think of this as the blockbuster star—always impressive and highly sought after. Perfect for a show-stopping cocktail ring.

The Supporting Cast (Medium to Light Red): Beautiful, wearable, and often more accessible. These can have slight orange or pinkish tints. They’re like your best friend who is always gorgeous and reliable. Fantastic in stud earrings or a delicate pendant.

The “It’s Complicated” (Dark or Purplish Red): These rubies can be very elegant but are less valuable than the vivid tones. In low light, they can look almost black, but under proper lighting, they reveal a deep, romantic color. Ideal for someone with a bold, dramatic style.

Why Pigeon’s Blood Rubies Are the Supermodels of the Gem World

It’s not just hype. Several factors make this color the ultimate prize. First, saturation. The color is intense and uniform, not washed out or patchy. Second, the tone is just right—not too light (which would make it a pink sapphire, a whole different conversation) and not too dark. Third, that hint of blue or purple fluorescence actually makes the stone appear even redder in daylight, giving it that legendary inner glow. It’s like the ruby has its own built-in Instagram filter. Finding a ruby with all these qualities, plus good clarity and cut, is rarer than finding a parking spot in downtown during the holidays. This is why estate pieces featuring these gems, like those in our Estate & Vintage Jewelry collection, are such treasured heirlooms.

How to Choose Your Perfect Ruby (Without Needing a PhD in Gemology)

Okay, so maybe a Pigeon’s Blood ruby isn’t in this month’s budget (we get it, so is ours!). That doesn’t mean you can’t own a breathtaking ruby that speaks to your soul and your wallet. Here’s the insider tip: Choose the color that makes your heart beat faster. Value is important, but personal love is priceless. Do you adore a slightly pinkish-red ruby? Go for it! Is a deep, garnet-like red more your vibe? Own that drama!

Look at the stone in different lights—natural daylight, office light, evening restaurant light (the most important test, obviously). A good ruby should look alive, not dull. And remember, the setting can enhance the color! A halo of diamonds around a ruby can make its color pop even more. Explore designs from Charles Krypell or Roberto Coin for incredible examples of how master jewelers use design to celebrate a gem’s color.

Think beyond rings, too! A pair of ruby earrings framed in yellow gold can warm up your entire complexion. A tennis bracelet with alternating rubies and diamonds is the definition of timeless luxury. Or, for a modern twist, check out how brands like Piranesi or Ruchi New York use rubies in innovative, architectural designs.

Your Ruby Journey Starts at Robinson’s Jewelers

Whether you’re dreaming of a legendary Pigeon’s Blood treasure or a stunning vivid red ruby that fits your life right now, we’re here to help you navigate the world of red with confidence and a lot of fun. Our experts live for these conversations—no question is too big, too small, or too “but what about this weird glow?”

Browse our curated Ruby Jewelry collection to see a spectrum of reds in action. Discover heirloom-quality pieces from Bvlgari and Chopard. Or, start with something perfectly precious from our Gifts $1,001 - $2,500 collection. The most valuable ruby color is the one that you fall in love with and can’t wait to wear. Everything else is just a fascinating, glittery detail. Come find your red at Robinson’s Jewelers—where your jewelry story gets its best chapter yet.