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Localities:
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Africa, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand and Vietnam |
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Common Shapes: |
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Ovals, cushions, pear, emerald cuts & others |
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Interesting Facts |
The earliest record of Ruby mining is from Sri Lanka 2,500 years ago. Historically,
many believed that mystical powers lie within this intensely colored red stone.
When inserted beneath the skin, the ancient Burmese believe that the stone generates
a mystical force, which protects the wearer from accidents and attack. In the ancient
world, many believed Rubies to contain prophetic powers, enabling wearers to predict
their future based on the color changes of their stone. The ancient Hindus enchanted
by the color of Rubies considered them to be "Ratnaraj" or the "King of Precious
Stones". Its name is derived from the Latin word "Rubeus".
Today, Burma is the world's largest supplier of high quality Rubies. Many consider
Burmese Rubies from the Mogok Valley to be the world's finest. Vietnam, Kenya, Tanzania
and Sri Lanka are some other sources of this truly enchanting gemstone. With large
deposits near the Cambodian border, Thailand was formerly the world's largest supplier
of Rubies but modern environmental regulations have greatly reduced the incidence
of mining. |
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Characteristics: |
Rubies and Sapphires are closely related, having corundum as their base mineral.
The difference in color occurs because of the different trace minerals contained
within each gemstone. Thai Rubies tend to have a darker color and less intensity
than Burmese Rubies, which are known for their high quality and high price range;
however, very fine Rubies can be found in Thailand at very affordable prices. African
Rubies tend to have heavy inclusions, but beautiful stones with fine clarity can
be found, usually in the higher price range.
Rubies come in many different shapes and sizes, providing great variety to gemstone
lovers. With hardness just below that of diamonds, Rubies are one of the toughest
gemstones, and with no cleavage, breakage rarely occurs.
Microscopic inclusions, sometimes called "silk", are a normal characteristic of
Rubies. However, heating tends to dissolve these inclusions. The existence of inclusions
provides traces to the Rubies' origin and can be used to separate natural from synthetic
stones. The inclusions within these gemstones may also be evidence that a Ruby has
not been heat-treated. Inclusions do not affect the value of the stone as long as
the brilliance of the gemstone is maintained and they are not visible to the naked
eye. |
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Evaluation: |
Intensity and uniformity of the red color are the factors used to determine the
price of Rubies. Highly valued Rubies are those with intense medium red and uniformed
color. Intense Pink Rubies can be highly appraised as well, if they are clear and
beautifully cut. The evaluation of Rubies should be done under different light settings.
When viewed under very strong light, Rubies may show very intense color; however,
when viewed under normal lighting, the gemstone may appear less intense. Light is
therefore a very important factor in determining the true color of Rubies.
To help assess their symmetry, Rubies must be judged from their face up position
and their overall beauty should always be taken into consideration. |
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