JackyKey Takeaway:
- Rubies are deep red gemstones that are popular birthstones and often used in engagement rings and anniversary gifts.
- Rubies are a type of corundum mineral gemstone that form in igneous and metamorphic rocks.
- The deep red color of rubies comes from the presence of chromium, which also affects the color grading of these gemstones and can result in variations such as pinkish, purplish, or wine red hues.
- Gemological standards and color grades are used to evaluate the quality of ruby color, with higher grades indicating more intense and vivid colors.
- Ruby color can be enhanced using methods such as heat treatment, but it is important to be aware of synthetic rubies and other color enhancement techniques.
The Nature of Rubies
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To comprehend rubies, it’s necessary to know their source and how they’re formed from corundum, a mineral gemstone. Rubies have an attractive deep red hue, which is why they’re treasured for fine jewelry. We’ll explain all you need to know about rubies in this article. There are two subsections – Origin and Formation of Rubies and Physical Characteristics of Rubies. Check them out for full details!
Origin and Formation of Rubies
Rubies are a type of mineral gemstones that are formed from corundum, a mineral composed mainly of aluminum oxide. The process of ruby formation occurs deep within the Earth’s crust where intense heat and pressure transform the corundum into a crystalline structure that produces the distinct red hue. This process takes millions of years, and the conditions required for ruby formation are rare, making rubies very valuable.
As corundum crystalizes under these extreme conditions, it can become impregnated with small amounts of chromium or iron elements that give it its red hues. The intensity and depth of the red colors depend on the exact combination of these elements as well as other factors such as light absorption and reflection within the gemstone.
Interestingly, rubies can also develop inclusions during their formation processes, which can affect their color and value. Such inclusions include cracks and needle-like rutile structures known as silk. Silk inclusions lead to a star effect in some rubies when polished.
In ancient times, rubies were often associated with nobility and considered to bring good fortune to those who possessed them. Today, they remain highly valued because they possess unique characteristics that make them stand out from other minerals gemstones. Furthermore, their rarity only adds to their appeal among collectors worldwide.
These deep red stones are no ordinary rocks, they’re fancy rubies and only the high-grade ones make the cut.
Physical Characteristics of Rubies
Rubies possess distinctive physical properties that make them unique among other gemstones. These properties, along with their deep red color, contribute to their value as precious stones.
In the following table, the physical characteristics of rubies are highlighted with appropriate columns:
| Hardness | Density | Refractive Index |
| 9 on Mohs scale | 3.97-4.05 g/cm3 | 1.76-1.78 |
It is important to note that high-grade rubies are those that exhibit excellent hardness, a density range between 3.97 and 4.05 g/cm3, and a refractive index from 1.76 to 1.78.
Additionally, fancy rubies can display asterism (star effect) due to the presence of microscopic rutile inclusions aligned within the crystal structure.
To ensure the best value when purchasing rubies, it is recommended to have them evaluated by a trusted gemologist who can determine their physical characteristics accurately.
People say diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but rubies come in all the colors of the rainbow so why settle for just one?
The Color of Rubies
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Rubies are fascinating for their complexity of color and shades. What gives them their color? And what variations can be found? Let’s explore!
The deep red, pinkish red, reddish pink, blood-red, brownish red, purplish red, raspberry red, scarlet red, wine red, cherry red, fiery red, bright red, intense red, vivid red, rich red, burgundy red, magenta red, crimson red, and maroon red hues of ruby gemstones are caused by a variety of factors. We’ll investigate these in the following parts.
What Gives Rubies Their Color?
Rubies get their color from the presence of chromium which absorbs light in specific wavelengths resulting in the characteristic red hue. The clearer and purer the stone, the more vivid and valuable its color. Color grading standards measure the intensity and saturation of a ruby’s tone based on predefined quality criteria set by gemological institutions.
Understanding the meaning behind ruby colors is important when making purchasing decisions for jewelry or investment purposes. Failure to consider this could lead to dissatisfaction with your purchase and loss of value over time.
Rubies come in more colors than a bag of Skittles, but they won’t melt in your mouth or your hand.
Variations in Ruby Colors
The color of rubies comes in a wide range of shades and degrees. Rubies can be seen as intense, dark red-colored gemstones with prominent undertones ranging from purplish red to brownish-red. Besides the deep red color, there are over twenty varying hues of ruby colors including pinkish red, reddish-pink, blood-red, brick red, cherry red, fiery red, burgundy red, wine red, vivid red and magenta-red that all contribute to the beauty of this precious stone.
In the table below we show variations of ruby colors and their corresponding hex codes:
| Color | Hex Code |
|---|---|
| Deep Red | #AA0000 |
| Pinkish Red | #FFC7B2 |
| Brownish Red | #8B0000 |
| Purplish Red | #9B111E |
Interestingly enough, rubies do not come in natural raspberry or scarlet or any other unique tint. Instead, you can describe them as variations in hue and saturation levels. The richness and quality depend on how much chromium is present in the crystal lattice structure. The high level of chromium cations gives rubies its characteristic bright coloration.
Don’t miss out on owning a unique piece of jewelry with rich and varied hues of ruby colors. Get your hands on one today!
When it comes to evaluating ruby color, gemological standards are like the teacher that grades you on a strict curve.
Evaluating Ruby Color
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Evaluating the color of rubies requires knowledge of gemological standards. To comprehend how to assess ruby color, explore the subsections of Gemological Standards for Ruby Color and Popular Ruby Color Grades and Qualities.
Gemological Standards for Ruby Color
When assessing the quality of rubies, gemological standards for ruby color help in distinguishing a superior quality stone from a lesser one. Standards involving hue, saturation, and tone are evaluated to determine the degree of redness.
The following table provides insight into various grades associated with different hues.
| Color Grade | Hue | Saturation | Tone |
| Pigeon Blood Red | Red with a slight tint of blue or pink | Vividly intense color saturation | Medium to Medium Dark (60-80% tone range) |
| Burgundy Red | Purple Red or Darker Pinkish Red | Moderate Saturation | Darker Tone than Pigeon Blood Red (75-90% tone range) |
| Oriental Red | Bright pinkish red with a somewhat bluish hue | Moderate Saturation | Medium light and higher tones (50-70% tone range) |
Furthermore, besides these grades, many other factors influence ruby quality assessments. Color distinctions vary for specific geographical origins, with some locations producing typically lighter or darker hues. Lighting conditions can also affect colors since natural lighting showcases the rich deep redness that its hue is best known for.
With gemological standards for ruby color, there is a long-standing history that dates back ages. The need to differentiate and classify rubies has driven the development of these standards, ensuring that the standardization process is becoming more nuanced and sophisticated with each passing year.
From Charming Pink to Fiery Red: The Most Desirable Ruby Colors and Grades Revealed!
Popular Ruby Color Grades and Qualities
Rubies are graded based on their color and quality. Understanding popular ruby color grades and qualities is crucial for gemstone enthusiasts and buyers. Below is a table showing popular grades and qualities of rubies, with information on color, clarity, cut, carat weight, and other important factors.
| Grade | Description |
|---|---|
| AAA | Deep rich red color with few to no inclusions |
| AA | Medium to dark red with minor inclusions |
| A | Lighter red or pinkish-red with noticeable inclusions |
| B | Darker or browner shades of red with visible inclusions |
Each grade has specific criteria that determine its value. AAA rubies are the most highly valued due to their deep red color and near-perfect quality. AA rubies have a slightly lower price point but still have good color and clarity. A-grade rubies may not be as valuable as higher grades, but they can still make beautiful jewelry pieces. B-grade rubies are typically the least expensive option.
It is important to note that price is not solely determined by grade alone. Factors such as origin, size, cut, and treatment can also affect ruby prices.
When shopping for rubies, it is essential to consider popular ruby color grades and qualities to ensure you’re investing in a high-quality gemstone that suits your budget. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own a stunning piece of jewelry incorporating this gorgeous gemstone!
Synthetic rubies may not have a soul, but at least they’re easier to manipulate with heat treatments and other color enhancements.
Enhancing or Altering Ruby Color
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It is a regular thing in the gem industry to alter or amend the color of rubies via heat treatment or other approaches. Here in the “what color are rubies” section, we will look into how heat treatment alters natural and lab-created rubies. We shall also hastily present other methods of color enhancement, and show how gem experts change the looks of rubies.
Heat Treatment of Rubies
Rubies are often subjected to a process that results in changes in color, commonly known as thermal treatment. This procedure has been used for centuries and remains a popular practice in the gem industry. Gemstones are carefully heated to high temperatures, causing certain minerals and materials inside the stone to react, altering their color. Heat Treatment is a common practice and can play a crucial role in gemstone marketing.
Lab-created rubies undergo heat treatment during their manufacturing process, which enhances their color. When evaluating lab-created rubies, this treatment should be disclosed by the seller as it affects the value of the gemstone.
It is important to note that heat treatment does not necessarily imply any nefarious intentions; instead, its purpose is to enhance the beauty of naturally-formed or lab-created stones. Heat treatments also significantly increase the appearance consistency of rubies in both artificial and natural settings.
Interestingly enough, heat-treated rubies were documented as early as ancient times by Greek philosopher Theophrastus in 315 BCE. Looks like rubies have more makeover options than a reality TV star.
Other Methods of Color Enhancement
While heat treatment is the most popular method for color enhancement, there are other methods of color enhancement available for rubies. One such method is the flux-healing treatment where chemicals and heat are used to heal the fractures on the ruby’s surface and improve its clarity and transparency. Another method is diffusion treatment where chemicals, high temperatures, and pressure alter the upper layer of rubies to give them new colors.
Furthermore, lattice diffusion can be employed to create a thin layer of fancy colored glass on the gemstone. These treatments can enhance a ruby’s beauty but may lower its value if not disclosed. Therefore, it’s critical for buyers to know whether a ruby has been treated or not before making their purchase decisions.
Pro Tip: Always seek help from certified gemologists to authenticate your ruby’s color and ensure that it is natural and untreated.
Five Facts About the Color of Rubies:
- ✅ Rubies are red in color and are caused by the presence of chromium. (Source: Geology.com)
- ✅ Rubies can range in color from pinkish-red to purplish-red. (Source: Gemological Institute of America)
- ✅ The most desirable ruby color is “pigeon’s blood” – a deep, pure red color with hints of blue and purple. (Source: Jewelry Shopping Guide)
- ✅ Synthetic rubies can be produced in a laboratory and are often used as a less expensive alternative to natural rubies. (Source: International Gem Society)
- ✅ Rubies are a popular gemstone for use in jewelry, particularly in engagement rings. (Source: GIA)
FAQs about What Color Are Rubies
What color are rubies?
Rubies are typically red in color. However, they can range from pinkish-red to purplish-red and even brownish-red.
Are there any other colors of rubies?
While red is the most common color, there are also rubies that appear pink, purple, or brown.
What causes rubies to have different colors?
The color of a ruby is affected by the presence of certain impurities, such as chromium, iron, or titanium. The amount of these impurities will determine the shade of the ruby.
Can rubies be artificially colored?
Yes, rubies can be treated with heat or chemicals to enhance their color or to make them appear more vibrant. However, treated rubies are generally less valuable than natural, untreated rubies.
Can rubies change color?
Some rubies can change color depending on the lighting or the surroundings. These are known as color-change rubies and are highly prized by collectors.
Do rubies come in any other colors besides red?
No, rubies are typically defined as red gemstones. However, there are other gemstones, such as sapphires, that can come in a variety of colors, including shades of red.
Jacky
