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Ruby
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General Information:
Ruby is the official birthstone for the month of July, and
is used to commemorate the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries. Ruby is red
corundum, it is the only variety of corundum not refered to as sapphire. The
name ruby comes from the latin word ruber meaning red. Rubies
have played an important role in royal jewelry and insignias. Large rubies are
more rare than comparable large diamonds. Many large rubies found in well known
royal pieces from earlier times, thought of as rubies were actually red spinel.
The stunning vibrant color of fine rubies make them very desired and one of the
most expensive gemstones available.
Corundum is the second hardest known mineral with a hardness of 9 on Moh's
scale. This quality makes it ideal for use in jewelry of all types. Rubies get
their color from the chromium and iron content found in them. Depending on the
amounts of these elements, makes the ruby its color anywhere from pinkish to
brownish red. The most desired color of ruby is called "pigeons
blood" which is a pure red with a blue hint, this wanted shade of ruby has
only been found in the mines located in Myanmar (Burma). |
Origin:
The best quality rubies are found in Myanmar (Burma),
Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. Other deposits are found in; Afghanistan,
Cambodia, Kenya, Madagascar, Vietnam, Australia, Brazil, India, Malawi, Nepal,
Pakistan, United States and Zimbabwe. |
Common Treatments and Lab Created
Forms:
Common treatment for rubies is heat treatment. This heat
treatment is usually done after the gem is cut, the heat improves the color and
clarity of the stone. Low grade rubies that have fissures that reach the
surface are often filled with lead glass.
Lab corundum is available in several different colors, ruby being one of them.
This lab material is identical in chemical composition to the natural corundum
and is a much more cost efficient option. There are also simulants available
that resemble the stunning color of natural ruby, but these gems are not of the
same composition. |
Physical Properties:
Moh's Scale Hardness: 9
Specific Gravity: 3.99 - 4.0
Refractive Index: 1.757 - 1.779
Crystal Habit: Hexagonal
Colors: pinkish to orangey and purplish and brownish red |
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