Gemstones 101 - The Ruby
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Gemstones 101: The Ruby
Introduction
Ruby stands as one of the four precious gemstones, alongside sapphire, emerald, and diamond. Known for its remarkable hardness, it ranks just below diamond on the hardness scale.
The Alluring Color
Rubies display a spectrum of red shades, from delicate pink to deep blood red, all due to the presence of chromium. The name “ruby” originates from the Latin word “ruber,” meaning red.
Ruby in Culture and History
Though recognized as the birthstone for July, rubies are also popular gifts in February, symbolizing passion and power for Valentine's Day. Historically, royalty wore them for their supposed magical abilities to ward off evil. Legends say rubies darken to alert the wearer of danger. Even today, modern royals use rubies to adorn their insignia.
Cutting and Valuation
Rubies are crafted into various cuts, often becoming high-class jewelry. The brilliant and step cuts are most favored. Rubies with asterism, reflecting a star-like pattern, are polished into cabochons instead of traditional facets to showcase this feature. Transparent asterism increases a ruby’s value. Some rare rubies display chatoyancy, changing color based on light.
The value of a ruby largely depends on its color. The most prized are the bright “pigeon blood red” rubies. Clarity also affects value; clear rubies are more expensive. It's easy to identify treated rubies by looking for the absence of natural needle-like rutile inclusions.
Enhancements and Treatments
Enhancements aim to improve a ruby's quality. The most accepted practice is heat treatment, enhancing color and removing blemishes. Many lower-cost rubies are heat-treated. However, some use lead glass filling, where fractures are filled with lead glass to enhance appearance, though it's less desirable.
Synthetic Rubies
Synthetic rubies have been available since the 19th century, thanks to the flame fusion process. They appear nearly flawless to the naked eye, only revealing imperfections under magnification. While synthetic rubies offer a less costly alternative, they lack the investment value of natural stones.
Notable Ruby Varieties
Varieties include Burmese Ruby, Star Ruby, Cat's Eye Ruby, and Synthetic Verneuil Ruby. A notable example is a 38.12-carat ruby that sold for $5.86 million at an auction in 2006.
Scientific Applications
Rubies have technical applications too. Notably, artificial ruby crystals were used in the first laser due to their phosphorescence, making them ideal for such innovations.
In summary, rubies continue to captivate with their beauty, cultural significance, and remarkable properties, ensuring their place as a treasured gemstone through the ages.
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