International Jewels : Ruby

Like a sapphire the ruby comes from the red side of the corundum family. Although a corundum can actually be any color such as yellow, blue or pink these colors are referenced as sapphires and not ruby. Rubies can come in an array of shades and styles, and most have a hint of a purplish hue, some of which may even have yellowish to orange tints. It is important that you pay close attention to the color of the stone. Rubies with intense red characteristics are more in demand and are most desired.

One of the different types of rubies is a Burmese ruby and are considered one of the most exquisite of all. Although rubies vary in superiority they are found from all parts of the world to the Unites States. Other area's of significance are Kenya, Thailand, and Madagascar. Rubies from Thailand, another classical supplier, however, often have a darker red which tends towards brown. Rubies of varying quality are found in other parts of the world, including the United States. Rubies can be found in many shades of red, withhints of purple, orange or pink, to the deep "pigeon-blood red" characteristicof the most sought after stones from Mogok. Rubies have long been cherished among the world's most beautiful and valuable gems. Rubies from Jagdalek are only rarely encountered in faceting quality, but when clean can be magnificent. Rubies, the birthstone of July, are precious gemstones composed of corundum, chromium bonded with aluminum oxide. Rubies will scratch any gem that is not a Diamond. Rubies above five carats are extremely rare and valuable. Some rubies display a wonderful silky shine, the so-called 'silk' of the ruby. Gemologists use these needleinclusions found in natural rubies to distinguish them from synthetics, simulants, or substitutes. Burmese rubies compared Until the discoveries in Vietnam in the late 1980's, Burmese rubies were without peer.

Almost all rubies are treated with one of the four common treatments. These are dyeing, coating irradiation and heat treatments. However, beware coatings are used to cover the serface and will wear off in due time.

Like many of the gemstones that are out on the market rubies can be lab created. Although these may be more affordable these aren't authentic and should be disclosed prior to sale.

Before you purchase a ruby, it is wise to know that natural rubies can be very costly and are not easy to find. A true ruby should come with a card certifying the stone of it's autenticity. It is important that with all stones you buy from a reputable jeweler who knows the gemstone and the history of the stone.

Once you have looked at the stone carefully, take a moment to pay attention to the cut of the stone. Although as mentioned before rubies come in a array of styles and shapes, you want to make sure that the light reflects properly off of the stone when looking at it from different angles. You can even go one step further and choose several different styles and shapes, place them along side of one another to do a quick comparison. After you have taken these steps you can then choose your ruby with piece of mind.

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