Rubies, with their mesmerizing red allure, have captured the hearts of gem enthusiasts and jewelry connoisseurs for centuries. These precious gemstones, adored for their rarity and symbolism, often take center stage in exquisite jewelry pieces. But have you ever wondered where most rubies are found? In this comprehensive article, we embark on a journey around the globe to discover the primary sources of these vibrant red gems, exploring their origins, characteristics, and the significance of their locales.
Ruby’s Radiant Red Color
At the heart of a ruby’s appeal is its intense red color, ranging from rich, vibrant reds to the highly coveted “pigeon’s blood” red. This striking hue is a result of the presence of chromium in the gem’s crystalline structure. The depth and purity of this red hue play a pivotal role in determining the value of a ruby.
The Mystique of Inclusions
Rubies often feature natural inclusions, internal imperfections that lend each stone a unique character. These inclusions are sometimes referred to as “silk” and can create a captivating effect known as “asterism” when they align in a specific way. Rather than diminishing the value, certain inclusions can enhance the ruby’s overall appearance.
The Influence of Cut
The way a ruby is cut can significantly impact its beauty and brilliance. A well-executed cut enhances the gem’s brightness and sparkle. While round and oval cuts are the most common, rubies can also be found in various shapes, including cushion, pear, and emerald cuts.
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Carat Weight Matters
Like all gemstones, rubies are priced based on their carat weight. Larger rubies are rarer and more valuable, but the quality of the stone also plays a crucial role in determining its worth.
The Power of Origin
The geographic origin of a ruby holds substantial importance in the world of gemstones. Rubies from different regions can exhibit distinct characteristics that influence their desirability and market value. Now, let’s embark on a global journey to discover where these precious gems are primarily unearthed.
The Ruby’s Global Odyssey: Where are Most Rubies Found?
Rubies are scattered across various continents, each region offering a unique blend of geological conditions that contribute to the formation of these exquisite gemstones. Here, we explore some of the most renowned sources of rubies worldwide:
1. Myanmar (Burma):
Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, stands tall as the historic and iconic source of some of the world’s finest rubies. The Mogok Valley in Myanmar, often referred to as the “Land of Rubies,” has been celebrated for centuries for its exceptional gemstone deposits. Burmese rubies are characterized by their mesmerizing “pigeon’s blood” red hue, a term used to describe the purest and most vivid red color. These rubies are revered for their unrivaled beauty and historical significance.
2. Thailand:
Neighboring Thailand is another notable hub for ruby mining. The Chanthaburi and Trat provinces have produced rubies with good quality, though they may display variations in color and clarity when compared to their Burmese counterparts. Thailand’s ruby mines have been active for centuries, contributing to the gemstone’s enduring popularity in the region.
3. Sri Lanka (Ceylon):
Sri Lanka, known for its exquisite sapphires, is also a source of rubies. Sri Lankan rubies are often distinct for their lighter, more pinkish-red hue. While they may not possess the deep red of Burmese rubies, they are prized for their clarity and unique coloration.
4. Mozambique:
In recent years, Mozambique has emerged as a prominent source of rubies, particularly in the Montepuez region. Mozambican rubies are renowned for their rich red color, often approaching the “pigeon’s blood” quality. These rubies have gained recognition and popularity in the gemstone market, offering a new source of high-quality stones.
5. Other Sources:
Beyond these primary locations, rubies can also be found in several other countries. Cambodia, Afghanistan, Vietnam, and Tanzania are among the regions that yield rubies, each with its unique characteristics and qualities. These rubies may exhibit variations in color, clarity, and inclusions due to their distinct geological settings.
The Significance of Ruby Origins
The origin of a ruby can significantly influence its value and desirability among collectors and buyers. Here’s a closer look at why the geographic source matters:
1. Unique Characteristics:
Rubies from different regions often possess unique characteristics that set them apart. For example, Burmese rubies are celebrated for their intense red hue and exceptional clarity, while Mozambican rubies are esteemed for their rich color saturation.
2. Rarity and Historical Significance:
Certain origins have a long history of producing exceptional rubies. Burmese rubies, in particular, have a storied past and are associated with some of the world’s most famous rubies, adding to their allure and value.
3. Collectible Appeal:
Collectors often seek rubies from specific origins to add to their collections. These collectors may value the historical and geographic significance of the stones they acquire.
How to make rubies into jewelry?
Creating jewelry with rubies is a fascinating and creative process that involves several steps, from designing the piece to setting the gemstone. Here’s a general overview of how to make rubies into jewelry:
1. Design the Jewelry:
Begin by sketching or digitally designing the jewelry piece you want to create. Consider the style, size, and overall aesthetic you want to achieve.
2. Choose the Ruby:
Select the ruby or rubies you want to use for your jewelry. Consider the size, color, clarity, and shape of the stones, as well as their suitability for the intended design.
3. Select the Metal:
Decide on the metal you want to use for the setting. Common choices include gold (yellow, white, or rose), platinum, and silver. The metal choice will affect the overall look of the jewelry.
4. Create a Wax Model (Optional):
For complex or custom designs, you can create a wax model of the jewelry piece before crafting it in metal. This allows you to visualize the final product and make any necessary adjustments.
5. Metalwork:
Skilled jewelers or metalsmiths will use the chosen metal to create the jewelry piece. This involves cutting, shaping, soldering, and forming the metal into the desired design.
6. Stone Setting:
Once the basic structure of the jewelry is ready, it’s time to set the rubies. The setting process varies depending on the design:
Prong Setting: This is the most common method for securing gemstones. Tiny metal prongs are bent over the edges of the ruby to hold it in place.
Bezel Setting: In this method, a metal rim is created to encircle the ruby, holding it securely.
Channel Setting: Rubies are set in a channel between two strips of metal, creating a seamless and secure setting.
Pavé Setting: Small rubies are closely set together in a continuous pattern, often seen in bands or halo settings.
7. Polishing and Finishing:
After the stones are set, the jewelry piece is polished to a high shine. This step enhances the metal’s appearance and ensures the rubies sparkle beautifully.
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Are rubies worth buying?
Rubies are indeed worth buying for those seeking a combination of exquisite beauty, rarity, and enduring value. These precious gemstones, prized for their intense red color and captivating allure, have been cherished for centuries. Their worth is influenced by factors such as color, clarity, carat weight, and origin, with “pigeon’s blood” red rubies from places like Myanmar being the most valuable. Rubies are often used in fine jewelry, making them a timeless investment. However, buyers should exercise caution to ensure they purchase genuine stones and consider their budget, as high-quality rubies can be quite expensive.
Conclusion
As we conclude our exploration of where most rubies are found, we recognize the immense diversity and allure of these gemstones. Whether they originate from the historic mines of Myanmar, the vibrant markets of Thailand, the serene landscapes of Sri Lanka, or the emerging sources in Mozambique, rubies continue to captivate our imaginations and hold a cherished place in the world of gemology and jewelry.
