November 08, 2022

Everything You Want to Know About Ruby

GURHAN Contributor

You probably know rubies by their fiery red colors and how brilliant they are - now it is time learn more about these valuable gemstones, their cosmic properties, how Gurhan integrates them into his collection and everything in between. Ruby gemstones have been used in jewelry for centuries and are still popular today. They are often set in gold or platinum and make beautiful engagement rings, necklaces, earrings, and other pieces of jewelry to ensure they can be appreciated within the right setting and outfit. Just like all ancient gemstones that shaped history, rubies also have been used for their cosmic properties promoting prosperity, positive energy, happiness, balancing the heart, confidence and courage. In addition to these, the star ruby is known for decreasing depression and providing.

What Is a Ruby and Where Do Rubies Mainly Come From

Ruby is a type of corundum and its name comes from the Latin word "ruber" which means red. Rubies range in color from pale pink to deep red. It is known as July’s birthstone.

As evident by the many civilizations that used rubies for their special and everyday attire, ancient gemstones like rubies can be sourced across the globe. Most of the world's rubies come from Mozambique, Zambia, Madagascar, Vietnam, India and Myanmar (rubies from Maynmar are forbidden to enter the United States).

How Are Rubies Treated?

Heat treatment is the most common and accepted type of treatment and is used to improve the color, clarity, and overall quality of the ruby. Other treatments include oiling to improve a ruby’s luster and lattice diffusion, which is used to improve the color. These treatments are generally considered to be acceptable.

However, it is important to note that treated rubies may be worth less than untreated rubies. It is always best to consult with a gemologist or jeweler before purchasing a ruby to ensure that you are getting what you expect. Treatments should always be disclosed to the buyer. Gurhan carefully sources the finest rubies, using only those with accepted treatments.

What is A Glass Filled Ruby?

A glass filled ruby is a type of artificial ruby that has had glass added to it in order to improve its clarity. This process is also known as clarity enhancement. The glass used is typically leaded crystal, which has a high refractive index that can help to make the ruby appear more brilliant.

Glass filled rubies are not considered to be as valuable as natural rubies. They are often used in costume jewelry and other decorative objects.

What is the Difference Between Ruby and Sapphire?

There are numerous differences between sapphires and rubies, however most of them cannot be identified without use of specific tools and calculations - except for one: Their color! Even though both ruby and sapphire are made of the mineral corundum, rubies get their red color from the element chromium while sapphires get their blue color from the element titanium. Most popular sapphires are indeed blue, but they can be found in a wide range of colors, such as yellow, green, and purple.

How to Care for Rubies?

The best way to clean rubies is with a soft cloth and warm soapy water. Though rubies rank 9 on the Moh’s scale, you should still avoid any harsh impact. Dropping them or accidentally hitting them against hard or sharp objects may still damage them

Gurhan Loves Rubies!

Gurhan sets rubies in 24k gold and uses them as the feature gemstone or as accent stones in many of his designs. His use of rubies in his jewelry often reflects the stone's traditional symbolism of love, passion, and power.

The vast majority of Gurhan's rubies are from Mozambique, although he also sources rubies from Zambia and India. He uses Zambian rubies typically in styles with ruby briolettes such as Dew Gold Huggie Hoop Earrings, with Ruby Briolettes. Carved rubies, which Gurhan sources from India, are used in their natural color. This Muse Gold Pendant Necklace, Round Carved Flower, With Ruby And Diamond, for example, is a stunning representation of a carved ruby and the delicate design choices Gurhan employes.

Click here to shop Gurhan’s ruby collection.

GURHAN Dew Gold Huggie Hoop Earrings, Thin Round On Post, With Ruby Briolette