The ruby : a very coveted gemstone
Rubies, like sapphires, are part of the corundum family.
The finest specimens come from Mogok in Burma. The most sought after colour is “blood-red”.
CThis gem is greatly prized by jewellers to enhance a broach, ring, necklace, bracelet or earrings.
The clarity ranges from VVS (rare and considerably more expensive than a white diamond if over 4 carats) to opaque.
Colour : deep pink, through to bright red, purple and even purplish brown.
Very hard : 9 out of 10.
Horoscope : JULY birthstone. Symbol of physical and spiritual strength.
Lithotherapy : Helps fight the following symptoms and pains : bronchitis, poor circulation, exhaustion, fatigue, anger, jealousy, seasickness, childhood diseases, viral diseases, rickets, colds, blood diseases, spasms, syncope, shyness, protection of the immune system.
Characteristics :
Cuts :
Crystal system : Rhombohedral
Specific Weight : 4.00
Refractive index : 1.76 – 1.77
Group : Corundum
Composition : Aluminium oxide
Hardness : 9
Birefringence : 0.008
Pleochroism : Strong (red, orange, carmine)