Ruby is one of the most precious gemstones in the world, known for its deep red color and exceptional brilliance. It’s often associated with passion, love, and wealth. But did you know there are different types of ruby, each with unique characteristics? From natural to lab-grown ruby, this article explores the variations of this stunning gemstone.
The demand for ruby gemstones, jewelry, and ornaments is ever-growing. In fact, a report by Expert Market Research claims that the rough ruby market is forecasted to increase at a CAGR of 5.2% between 2023-28.
Thus, before you make up your mind to purchase a ruby of your choice, learn about the different shades, cuts, and shapes, and discover which type best suits your needs. Whether you’re a jewelry lover, gem collector, or just interested in the world of gemstones, this article is a must-read.
- Star Ruby
Star ruby is a type of ruby that displays a unique star-like effect known as asterism. Its effect is created by the alignment of tiny needle-like inclusions within the ruby, causing the light to reflect in a six-rayed star pattern. Star rubies are prized for their beauty and rarity, with some of the finest specimens highly sought after by gem collectors.
Unlike other rubies, star rubies are not cut for maximum size or brilliance. Instead, they are cut to maximize the star effect, with the stone being cut into a cabochon shape to showcase the star pattern.
The necklaces based on star rubies are set in a simple yet elegant setting and are perfect for special occasions. It gives sophistication and elegance to any attire. If you’re searching for a stunning piece of jewelry featuring star rubies, you can check a ruby necklace store online. These stores offer a wide variety of high-quality ruby jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and more.
Furthermore, they have different set pieces of necklaces with ruby pendants surrounded by sparkling diamonds. Online gemstone stores are perfect for finding a beautiful star ruby piece that will become a cherished part of your jewelry collection. - Cabochon Ruby
According to Diamonds.pro, on the Mohs scale, rubies are hard gemstones with a hardness rating of 9. They are only outperformed by the diamond, which receives a perfect 10. The Cabochon ruby is hard and cut and polished into a rounded dome shape. Also, it has a smooth surface and no facets.
You can use the cut to showcase the gemstone’s color translucency and any inclusions or imperfections that give the stone character and uniqueness.
Unlike other rubies, a cabochon is not cut for maximum brilliance and sparkle. Instead, they are cut to display the natural beauty of the gemstone. Cabochon rubies are typically set in jewelry with a vintage or antique feel, such as brooches, pendants, and earrings. These types of rubies are also used in traditional Indian and Tibetan jewelry, where they are highly prized for their rich color and unique beauty. - Pigeon Blood Ruby
Pigeon Blood ruby is a highly prized and sought-after type of ruby, known for its intense, pure red color. The term “pigeon blood” refers to the deep red hue that resembles the blood of a freshly killed pigeon. Unfortunately, it is expensive and has only a limited number of specimens available.
Pigeon blood rubies are often found in Myanmar, which is considered the source of the finest rubies in the world. The rich color and high transparency of pigeon blood rubies make them ideal for cutting into gems of all shapes and sizes. In addition, they are highly valued for their exceptional beauty and rarity, making them a popular choice for collectors, investors, and jewelry lovers alike. - Rare Solid Red Rubies
Solid red rubies, also known as “padparadscha” rubies, are among the rarest rubies worldwide. Named after the Sanskrit word for “lotus flower,” these rubies are known for their unique peach-pink to orange-pink color.
They are typically found in Sri Lanka and Madagascar. Unlike other rubies, which are often treated to enhance their color, solid red rubies are natural and unaffected. Therefore, it makes them highly sought after by collectors and jewelry lovers who appreciate the rare beauty of untreated gems. However, solid red rubies are often more expensive than other types of rubies due to their rarity. - Pink Rubies
Pink rubies are prized for their soft, feminine color. Pink rubies range from pale to deep pink, with some stones displaying a light purple hue. These rubies are often used in jewelry and are popular for occasions such as anniversaries, birthdays, and Valentine’s Day.
You can find Pink rubies in many locations worldwide, including Madagascar, Thailand, and Tanzania. They are often naturally occurring and unaltered, thus appreciated by people who like natural gems. - Purple Rubies
Purple rubies are a unique and rare type of ruby prized for their rich, regal color. They are found in shades like light lavender and deep purple. Also, they are often considered more valuable than traditional red rubies due to their scarcity and beauty.
These rubies are found worldwide, including in Madagascar, Vietnam, and Mozambique. Unlike other rubies, which are often treated to enhance their color, purple rubies are often unmodified and naturally occurring. - Tropical Rubies
Tropical rubies are also known as “malaya” rubies. They are prized for their bright and vivid color. Tropical rubies are found in a range of warm, reddish-orange to orange-pink shades and are considered some of the most valuable rubies in the world.
These rubies are often found in locations worldwide, including Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Unlike other rubies, which are often treated to enhance their color, tropical rubies are natural and unmodified.
Tropical rubies are often cut into gems of various shapes and sizes and can be set in various jewelry styles. It can be from classic and traditional pieces to modern and vibrant designs. With their bright, vivid color and natural beauty, tropical rubies are a valuable and beautiful choice for those who appreciate the beauty of rubies in all colors.
Each Variation of Ruby Has Its Own Special Beauty and Worth
According to the Gem Society, rubies come in various colors and types and have a refractive index of 1.762-1.778, making them strikingly beautiful. Each of the different types of rubies possesses its unique beauty and value.
From the rare and regal purple rubies to the soft and feminine pink rubies, there is a type of ruby for everyone. Whether you like the unaltered, natural beauty of untreated gems or the enhanced colors of treated stones, there is a ruby to suit your preferences and price range.
According to Exactitude Consultancy, by 2029, the gemstone market will be worth USD 53.2 million at a CAGR of 6.53%. No matter what type of ruby you choose, it will add value, beauty, and elegance to any jewelry collection considering the market growth. Therefore, look no further than the different types of rubies available when looking for a stunning gemstone.
