Unique Jewelry Weblog

Ruby simply means red; however the ruby is not a simple gem. The ruby is one of the most precious gemstones that are found on this world. When thinking about purchasing ruby jewelry, one should have a basic understanding of the factors that determines the price of the ruby. Knowing which factors are important to you and having the basic fundamentals of understanding them will enable you to find and purchase ruby jewelry that fits you best and offers you what you are looking for. Find out what you need to know about rubies if you own ruby jewelry or are planning to purchase a piece.

While it is true that the word ruby simply means red in the Latin language, the ruby is not a simple gem. It is a precious stone that has given way to some of the most beautiful jewelry in the world. Ruby jewelry has been revered since the times of ancient civilizations. In fact, the ruby is the gem stone that is most often named in the English versions of the Bible.

Ruby jewelry was traded along the famous North Silk Road into China as early as 100 BC. In the countries of Asia, the ruby is found extensively on ancient armor, swords and even beneath century old buildings; the ruby was thought to bring very good luck to those who kept it close.

We all think of the ruby as being red, however the color of a ruby found in its natural state can be any color that ranges from pink to red. The main element that will determine the price of ruby jewelry is the color of the gem. Therefore, with today’s technology much can be done to bring a pink ruby to a sparkling red one. The color can be made darker, cracks can be fixed and filled. However, naturally found rubies in a dark red color named Pigeon Blood Red are the most valuable and these are the ones that ruby jewelry lovers wish for.

The second element that will determine the value of a ruby is the clarity. Just like diamonds, a perfect ruby will not have cloudy or shady areas in the stone. Some clouding will not be apparent with the human eye, but will be seen with a microscope; this all comes into play. It is important to keep in mind that all real natural rubies will have what is known as inclusions in them; these will look like small needle shaped areas that are called silk. If a ruby does not have any of these, then it is not a real ruby. If a ruby has been modified to be the perfect red color, this will show and will count against clarity.

Next, the size and cut of the ruby will determine the value. Rubies are cut a special way to play off the silk so that the gem stone shines. Before or after the cutting of the ruby, most are heated. If a ruby is found to be of perfect color and good clarity without any heating, it will be a very valuable ruby.

Fake ruby jewelry can be found and some do prefer to wear a piece that is not valuable in case it is lost or stolen. If you are in question about a piece of ruby jewelry an appraiser will most certainly be able to let you know if you have the real thing or not.