10 Interesting Facts About Ruby
Ruby is one of the most treasured gemstones in history, renowned for its fiery red colour and association with passion, power, and protection.
While many people know that rubies are the birthstone for July, there are plenty of lesser-known facts that make this gemstone even more captivating. Here are ten fascinating facts about ruby that might surprise you!
Ruby and Sapphire Are the Same Mineral
Ruby and sapphire are both varieties of corundum, a mineral composed of aluminium oxide. The only difference between them is colour, red corundum is classified as ruby, while all other colours (blue, yellow, green, etc.) are considered sapphire. This means that, technically, a pinkish-red sapphire could be considered either a ruby or a sapphire!
Ancient Cultures Called Ruby the "King of Gemstones"
Rubies have been revered for thousands of years, with ancient cultures believing they held mystical properties. In India, they were called "ratnaraj," meaning "king of gemstones," and were thought to bring protection and prosperity. Many cultures associated rubies with blood, life force, and power, making them a symbol of strength and vitality.
Some Rubies Are More Expensive Than Diamonds
High-quality rubies, especially those with deep "pigeon’s blood" red colour and minimal inclusions, can command higher prices per carat than diamonds. The demand for fine rubies has increased due to their rarity and cultural significance, making them one of the most valuable gemstones in the world.
The Most Expensive Ruby Ever Sold Fetched Over $30 Million
The "Sunrise Ruby" holds the record for the most expensive ruby ever sold at auction, selling for $30.3 million in 2015. This 25.59-carat Burmese ruby was praised for its exceptional colour, clarity, and perfect cushion cut. The sale price reflected the immense demand for fine rubies among collectors and investors.
Ruby Crystals Can Grow to Massive Sizes
The largest faceted ruby in the world is the "Rajaratna Ruby," weighing an astonishing 2,475 carats.
Meanwhile, the largest star ruby cabochon is the "Neelanjali Ruby," a 1,370-carat ruby that displays two intersecting star patterns, making it a double-star ruby.
The Mogok Valley Has Been Producing Rubies for Over 1,000 Years
Myanmar (formerly Burma) is home to some of the world’s finest rubies, particularly those from the Mogok Valley. This legendary mining area has been producing high-quality rubies for over a millennium. In more recent years, Vietnam and Mozambique have also become major sources of stunning rubies that rival Myanmar’s best.
Rubies Have (kind of) Been Found on the Moon and Mars
Trace amounts of corundum, the mineral that forms rubies and sapphires, have been detected in lunar and Martian samples. While these aren’t gem-quality rubies, their presence suggests that the conditions required to form rubies exist beyond Earth.
The First Laser Was Powered by a Synthetic Ruby
In 1960, physicist Theodore Maiman created the world’s first working laser using a synthetic ruby crystal. The ruby laser was groundbreaking, demonstrating how light could be amplified and controlled. Even today, synthetic rubies are used in various industries, including watchmaking, medical instruments, and scientific research.
A Famous Ruby in the Crown Jewels Isn’t a Ruby at All
The "Black Prince’s Ruby," set in the Imperial State Crown of England, is one of the most famous gemstones in history. Despite its name, it isn’t a ruby. It’s actually a spinel, a different mineral that was often mistaken for ruby in ancient times. Many historical “rubies” turned out to be spinels once tested, as the two gemstones can appear very similar.
Some Rubies Have a Star Inside
Certain rubies display a stunning optical effect called asterism, which creates a star-like pattern on the gemstone’s surface when viewed under direct light. This phenomenon is caused by needle-like inclusions of rutile that reflect light in a way that forms a six-rayed star. Star rubies are highly prized, especially those with a strong and well-defined star effect.
Rubies are truly fascinating gemstones with a rich history and remarkable properties. Whether you're drawn to their fiery colour, their rarity, or their connection to ancient legends, there's no denying the allure of this "king of gemstones."