Natural Rubies
$250.00
Item number:
1
Natural Rubies from Myanmar
Natural rubies are rare red gemstones belonging to the corundum family, colored by trace elements of chromium. They score a 9.0 on the Mohs scale. Prized for their vivid "pigeon's blood" hue and high fluorescence, natural unheated stones are highly valuable investments. Most are heat-treated for clarity, while flawless, unheated stones command significant premiums at market.
Understanding what defines a natural ruby is key to evaluating, identifying, and purchasing these gemstones:
- Inclusions & Rarity: Unlike lab-grown alternatives, natural rubies form over millennia, resulting in microscopic internal flaws called "silk" (rutile needles). Flawless natural rubies are exceedingly rare; thus, the presence of these inclusions often guarantees natural origin.
- Treatments: To intensify color and clarity, most natural rubies undergo professional heat treatment. Unheated natural rubies are rarer and exponentially more expensive.
- Value & Pricing: A ruby's price relies on color, clarity, and carat weight. Prices range from roughly $70 for smaller, lower-grade stones up to tens of thousands for larger certified gems.
- Authentication: Because the market features synthetic and glass-filled imitations, it is recommended to purchase natural rubies with certification from reputable gemological laboratories like the GIA (Gemological Institute of America).