Origin & Formation
Rubies originate from the mineral corundum, also known as aluminum oxide. They form beneath the Earth’s surface under extreme heat and pressure. Corundum consists of tightly packed oxygen and aluminum atoms, typically resulting in a colorless mineral. However, the introduction of other substances or minerals can impart different colors to the stone. Specifically, when chromium replaces some aluminum atoms, the ruby acquires its iconic red hue. Varied amounts of chromium and ferric iron can create rare shades of orange and pink. If 1% of the aluminum atoms are substituted by chromium atoms, the ruby attains a rich, deep red color. Learn more about ruby color.
However, the presence of silica or iron inhibits ruby formation. Given that these elements are commonly found in Earth’s crust, rubies are rare. Additionally, corundum itself is an uncommon mineral.
Most ruby deposits are located in Asia, particularly in countries like Myanmar, Thailand, India, Pakistan, and Nepal. These deposits often lie near the Himalayan mountain range. The collision of the Asian and Indian subcontinents created the immense pressure and specific minerals necessary for ruby formation — a process that began 50 million years ago. Rubies can also be found in Madagascar, Macedonia, and Montana.
Most rubies possess natural imperfections formed during their creation within the Earth. These characteristics, known as rutile needles or silk, help distinguish natural from lab-created rubies. Check out more information about ruby inclusions and clarity.
Types of Origins: Burmese Ruby
The ruby, among the world’s most cherished gemstones, is prized for its rarity and durability. As July’s birthstone, it naturally exists in various shades of red, but the most coveted is a deep blood-red with a hint of blue. Although rubies are found globally, the Burmese Ruby, renowned for its rich red hue, from Myanmar (formerly Burma), remains the most sought after. Second in hardness only to diamonds, the Burmese Ruby is ideal for all types of jewelry. However, certain varieties and origins of rubies are more esteemed than others.
Burmese Ruby Origin & Formation
Rubies are mined in Afghanistan, India, Mozambique, and Tajikistan. While mines worldwide produce rubies of varying quality, some yield more visually appealing stones. The origin of a ruby significantly impacts its value. The Burmese Ruby, also known as the Pigeon’s Blood Ruby, originates from Myanmar and is noted for its stunning blood-red color, making it the most valuable type. The Mogok Stone tract has been the most famous source for Burmese Rubies for 800 years. Rubies from this region not only boast vibrant red coloring but also react to ultraviolet light, showcasing an intense red glow in natural lighting. These gems tend to contain lower iron levels, preventing any reduction in their electric-like red fluorescence. This glow gives Burmese rubies an almost flame-like appearance. Their true red to pinkish-red color in natural lighting, free from other undertones, elevates their value above rubies from other sources. Recently, rubies from Myanmar’s Möng Hsu region have entered the gem market more abundantly. While these rubies share a similar glow effect, they are identifiable by the darkness of their core. Though debates have arisen about classifying Möng Hsu rubies separately from Burmese Rubies, no consensus has been reached.
Burmese Ruby Value
For millennia, the Burmese Ruby’s brilliant coloring has made it highly desirable. Its durability further enhances its value, rating a 9 on the Mohs scale, just below diamonds. Made of the mineral corundum, Burmese Rubies have commanded prices up to $100,000 per carat. Generally, a ½ to 1 carat Burmese Ruby ranges from $300 to $3,000 per carat. Rubies from Myanmar over 4 carats come with exponentially higher prices due to their immense rarity. While rubies from other locales can be valuable, Burmese rubies set the benchmark for excellence. Most rubies, including those from Burma, undergo heat treatment, which reduces inclusion visibility and enhances their fiery red color. Untreated, beautiful rubies are rare and valuable. Heat treatment is a natural, permanent process that enhances a ruby’s beauty and value. Artful Bracelets ensures the Burmese rubies used are vetted for quality, sparkle, and purity and comply with responsible mining and import standards.
Types of Origins: Thai Ruby
Thailand is a significant player in the ruby mining and manufacturing industry. Known for producing high-quality rubies, Thailand has become a hub for ruby cutting and trade. The capital, Bangkok, is a major center for this trade, benefiting from its strategic position as an import-export hub in Southeast Asia. Over time, Thai rubies have earned recognition from jewelers globally for their quality.
Thai Ruby Origin & Formation
Thailand emerged as a major ruby trade center beginning in the 15th century. Large ruby mines were discovered in the Trat, Chanthaburi, and Kanchanaburi provinces, establishing Thailand as the world’s leading source of face-table and jewelry-grade rubies. Distinct by their clarity, Thai rubies typically form in flatter crystal shapes, making cut stones somewhat shallower compared to other regions. However, their superior clarity sets them apart. Thai rubies contain more iron than Burmese ones, leading to a darker, garnet-like hue. While Thai rubies do fluoresce under UV light, their glow is not as vivid as that of Burmese rubies. Nonetheless, with natural heat treatment, the fiery red color of
Thai rubies possess value partly due to their ability to be crafted into intricate shapes such as marquise and emerald cuts, unlike Burmese rubies. Although major Thai ruby deposits were significantly depleted by the 1980s, the country had already mastered the art of ruby crafting, making Thailand a renowned center for cutting and treating rubies to enhance their natural beauty. Consequently, a significant number of rubies are processed in Thailand, even if the country isn’t a primary source of ruby mining anymore.
Thai Ruby Value
To create a high-quality ruby, an experienced cutter must consider several factors, including how the cutting or faceting will impact light passage and sparkle. Additionally, maximizing the red color in a ruby is crucial. Thai rubies are frequently heat-treated to enhance their red hue and reduce clarity inclusions. This heat treatment simulates the natural conditions under which rubies form within the earth. A reputable ruby cutter will avoid or disclose other treatments, such as resin filling. Artful Bracelets uses only heat-treated rubies, a natural and permanent process that doesn’t introduce foreign elements. While untreated rubies are rare and highly valued, well-crafted Thai rubies can also command a premium. Artful Bracelets collaborates with trusted ruby cutters who ensure the highest quality.
