Ruby

I am Ruby. Celebrated in the Bible and in ancient Sanskrit writings as the most precious of all gemstones, I have been the prized possession of emperors and kings throughout the ages. My inner fire has been the inspiration for innumerable legends and myths, and to this day, no red gemstone can compare to my fiery, rich hues.

Many people associate its brillant crimson colors with passion and love, making Ruby an ideal choice for an engagement ring. Ruby is the red variety of the corundum mineral species, while all other colors of corundum are called Sapphire.

Ruby is mined throughout Southeast Asia. While Thailand and Myanmar (Burma) produce exquisite examples of this gemstone that the ancient Sinhalese people called "Ratnaraj," the King of Gems.

This most sought after gemstone is available in a range of red hues, from purplish and bluish red to orangish red. Ruby is readily available in sizes up to 2 carats, but larger sizes can be obtained. However, in its finest quality, any size Ruby can be scarce. In readily available small sizes, Ruby makes an excellent accent gemstone because of its intense, pure red color.

Passion, excitement, luxurious opulence ... these are just a few words that describe our fascination with this most precious of gemstones. For thousands of years, man has sought to own precious Rubies as symbols of devotion and objects of desire. Imperfections and impurities may be removed by controlled heating of the gemstones. Occasionally Rubies with small imperfections are permeated with a silicate by product of the heating process. Care should be observed when wearing fissure filled Rubies. This enhancement technique may wear over time if treated harshly or exposed to strong solvents or abrasives. Your jeweler will inform you of the best method to care for your natural gemstone treasures.