Since ancient times, rubies have been coveted for their beauty and rarity as precious gemstones. It is a type of mineral called corundum, which is also the mineral that makes up sapphires. Rubies are prized for their rich red colour and are often referred to as the “king of gems.” With its enduring popularity, it’s no wonder that many people are looking to buy a ruby stone. But before you make a purchase, it’s important to know what you’re buying and what to look for to ensure that you’re getting high-quality ruby. Thus, below is everything you need to know before buying a ruby stone.
- Understanding Ruby Quality: When it comes to ruby quality, there are several factors to consider. The most important of these are colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
- Colour: The colour of a ruby is what makes it so prized. The most valuable rubies are a deep, rich red, sometimes referred to as “pigeon’s blood.” Rubies that are too light or too dark are not as highly valued.
- Clarity: Rubies can contain inclusions, which are small minerals that are trapped inside the stone. The lesser the number of inclusions a ruby has, the more valuable it is. However, it’s important to note that some inclusions are not visible to the naked eye and don’t affect the beauty of the stone.
- Cut: The cut of a ruby refers to the way it has been shaped and polished. A well-cut ruby will have a smooth, even surface and be cut to maximize its colour and brightness. Poorly cut rubies can look dull and lack sparkle.
- Carat Weight: Ruby is typically sold by carat weight, which is a measure of its size. Larger rubies are rare and, therefore, more valuable than smaller rubies.
- Natural vs. Synthetic Rubies: When shopping for a ruby, it’s important to know the difference between natural and synthetic rubies. Natural rubies are formed in the earth and are mined. Synthetic rubies, on the other hand, are created in a laboratory using high-heat and high-pressure methods. Synthetic rubies are less expensive than natural rubies and are becoming more and more common on the market.
- Treatment of Rubies: Many rubies are treated to enhance their colour and clarity. Common treatments include heat treatment, fracture filling, and dyeing. While these treatments can improve the appearance of the stone, they can also reduce its value. It’s important to know if a ruby has been treated and what type of treatment it has received, as this will affect its value and durability.
- Origin of Ruby: The origin of a ruby can also affect its value. Rubies from certain countries, such as Myanmar and Thailand, are considered more valuable than rubies from other countries. The reason for this is that rubies from these countries are known for their exceptional quality and rich, deep red colour.
- Buying Ruby Online vs. In-Store: When buying a ruby, you have two options: buying online or buying in-store. Both have their pros and cons, so it’s important to consider what’s important to you before making a decision.
- Buying online can be more convenient and often offers a wider selection of rubies. However, buying online can also be risky because you’re not able to inspect the ruby in person. To mitigate this risk, it’s important to buy from a reputable online retailer and to carefully read the product description and customer reviews.
- Buying in-store allows you to inspect the ruby in person and get a better sense of its quality. You can also ask questions and get advice from the salesperson. However, buying in-store can be more time-consuming and may not offer as wide a selection of rubies as buying online.
- Certificates and Appraisals: When buying a ruby, it’s important to get a certificate or appraisal that attests to the ruby’s quality. A certificate is usually issued by a gemmological laboratory and will include information on the ruby’s colour, clarity, cut, carat weight, and other factors that affect its value. An appraisal is a professional assessment of the ruby’s value and is typically done by a trained gemmologist.
- Price of Ruby: The price of ruby stone will vary depending on the quality of the stone and other factors, such as its origin and treatment. Natural rubies are typically more expensive than synthetic rubies and rubies with exceptional quality and rarity can be extremely expensive. When shopping for a ruby, it’s important to set a budget and stick to it and to be mindful of the fact that the cheapest option may not always be the best option.
- Care and Maintenance of Ruby: Like all gemstones, rubies need proper care to maintain their beauty and longevity. Here are some tips for caring for your ruby:
- Store your ruby in a safe place, away from other gemstones, to prevent scratches.
- Clean your ruby regularly with a soft cloth and warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage the ruby.
- Remove your ruby before engaging in activities that could expose it to impact or scratches, such as sports or heavy manual labour.
- Take your ruby to a professional jeweller for regular check-ups and cleaning to ensure that it’s in good condition.
- Investing in Ruby: For some people, buying a ruby is not just about its beauty but also about its potential as an investment. Rubies have historically held their value well and can be a good investment for those who are willing to pay a premium for a high-quality stone. However, it’s important to remember that the value of a ruby can be influenced by factors such as the global economy and changes in consumer demand, so it’s important to do your research and consult with a professional before investing in a ruby.
In conclusion, Ruby is a beautiful and precious gemstone that has been prized for centuries. When buying a ruby, it’s important to consider factors such as colour, clarity, cut, carat weight, origin, and treatment. Before making a purchase, it’s a good idea to get a certificate or appraisal and to be mindful of the price of ruby stone in India. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to finding a high-quality ruby that you can enjoy for years to come.