Are all rubies filled? That’s a question that many people may ask themselves when purchasing this precious gemstone. And the answer is quite complex. Rubies are a type of corundum mineral that get their distinctive red hue from chromium, which also happens to be what gives emeralds their green color. But not all rubies are created equal. Some have natural inclusions or cracks that make them seem less valuable, while others have been treated to enhance their appearance.
Of course, this raises all sorts of questions- should you opt for a more expensive, higher-quality ruby that’s chemically flawless or will a cheaper, “filled” stone do the trick? And what, exactly, does “filled” mean in this context? To understand this better, we’ll need to start with the basics. All rubies are formed inside the earth’s mantle, where high pressure and temperature cause minerals to crystallize over time. Those crystals are then brought closer to the surface through volcanic activity, where they can be harvested by miners. But not all crystals are perfect.
So, are all rubies filled? The answer is no, but it’s also not a simple black-and-white choice. Whether you choose a quality ruby or one that’s been treated to make it look better can depend on your budget and your preferences. But before you make a purchase, it’s essential to understand the difference between natural, untreated rubies, and those that have been filled or treated in some other way. Only then can you make an informed decision that will suit your needs and your style.
How Rubies are Formed
Rubies are precious gemstones that are created through a natural process that takes millions of years. Rubies are formed deep within the Earth’s crust, usually 90 to 120 miles deep, in areas where there are high concentrations of aluminum, iron, and chromium. The process of forming rubies involves high temperatures and pressure, as well as a series of complex geological processes.
The Formation Process of Rubies
- 1. Heat and Pressure:
Rubies are formed under extreme heat and pressure. The temperature required for the formation of rubies is around 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. - 2. Mineral Solutions:
Mineral solutions containing small amounts of aluminum, iron, and chromium penetrate the rock layers and crystallize. - 3. Geologic Upheaval:
Geologic upheavals and volcanic eruptions bring the ruby-containing rock closer to the Earth’s surface. - 4. Weathering:
Over time, the weathering and erosion process exposes the rubies, making them accessible for mining.
Geological Locations for Ruby Formation
Most of the world’s rubies come from Asia, specifically from Myanmar (formerly known as Burma). The Mogok Valley in Myanmar has been the source of some of the finest rubies in the world. Other significant ruby-producing countries include Thailand, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Tanzania. Rubies have also been found in the United States, Australia, and Greenland.
Ruby Characteristics and Properties
Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum. Corundum typically occurs as a gray or brown mineral, but it can also form in a variety of other colors, including blue, orange, and green. Rubies are a deep red color, which is caused by the presence of chromium in the crystal lattice. Rubies have a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making them one of the hardest gemstones in the world.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Hardness | 9 on the Mohs scale |
| Color | Deep red |
| Luster | Glass-like to adamantine |
| Transparency | Transparent to opaque |
Rubies are also known for their durability and resistance to scratching, making them an ideal gemstone for use in jewelry. They are often set in rings, necklaces, and bracelets, and are treasured for their beauty and symbolism.
Types of Rubies Found in Nature
Rubies are one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world. They are valued for their rich red color, durability, and rarity. While rubies can be found in many parts of the world, not all rubies are created equal. In fact, there are several different types of rubies found in nature, each with its own unique properties and characteristics.
Types of Rubies Found in Nature
- Burmese Rubies: Burmese rubies are considered to be the most valuable and sought-after rubies in the world. They are prized for their deep red color, which is caused by the presence of chromium in the stone. Burmese rubies are also known for their high level of clarity and low levels of inclusions.
- Thai Rubies: Thai rubies are also highly valued for their deep red color, which is caused by the presence of iron and chromium. These rubies are known for having a slightly darker hue than Burmese rubies. While Thai rubies can be quite expensive, they are often more affordable than Burmese rubies.
- Afghan Rubies: Afghan rubies are known for their unique pinkish-red color, which is caused by the presence of iron in the stone. These rubies are often less expensive than Burmese and Thai rubies, but they are still highly valued by collectors and investors due to their rarity.
Types of Rubies Found in Nature
In addition to the above types of rubies, there are also a number of other varieties that are found in nature. Some of these include:
- Madagascar Rubies: Madagascar is known for producing rubies with a bright red color and a slight bluish tint. These rubies are often less expensive than other varieties due to the fact that they lack the intense red color of Burmese and Thai rubies.
- Tanzanian Rubies: Tanzanian rubies are relatively new to the market, but they are already gaining popularity among collectors. These rubies are known for their bright red color and high levels of clarity.
Types of Rubies Found in Nature
When it comes to rubies, the origin of the stone can have a significant impact on its value and rarity. To help collectors and investors understand the differences between different types of rubies, the following table outlines some of the key characteristics of each variety:
| Ruby Type | Color | Clarity | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burmese | Deep red | High | High |
| Thai | Dark red | High | Medium |
| Afghan | Pinkish-red | Medium | Medium |
| Madagascar | Bright red | Medium | Low |
| Tanzanian | Bright red | High | Medium |
As you can see, each type of ruby has its own unique set of characteristics and properties. Whether you’re a collector, investor, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of these stunning gemstones, understanding the different types of rubies found in nature can help you make more informed purchasing decisions.
Importance of Gemstone Certification
Gemstones hold a certain allure and have been used for centuries as symbols of luxury and elegance. Among these precious stones, rubies have always managed to evoke an unparalleled sense of glamour and class. However, with the burgeoning gemstone market and the advent of new technology, both the production and sale of rubies have become more complex. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the ruby you purchase is authentic and of high quality. One way to do that is through gemstone certification.
The Benefits of Gemstone Certification
- Gemstone certification provides a reliable and independent assessment of the ruby’s quality.
- Certified rubies come with a complete description of the stone’s characteristics, such as its weight, cut, color, and clarity.
- Having a certified ruby ensures that the stone has not undergone any treatments or enhancements that may affect its value or durability.
Gemstone Laboratories
To obtain a gemstone certificate, the ruby must be evaluated by a reputable gemstone laboratory. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is one of the most established and renowned gemstone laboratories in the world. They are known for their strict grading standards and comprehensive reports. Additionally, the American Gemological Laboratories (AGL) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI) are also reputable laboratories that offer gemstone certification services.
Gemstone certificates are essential for buyers looking to invest in rubies or other gemstones. They provide assurance of the stone’s quality and authenticity, making it easier to make an informed purchase. Before purchasing a ruby, it’s crucial to ensure that it has a gemstone certificate that complies with industry standards and comes from a reputable gemstone laboratory.
The Importance of Gemstone Certification: A Comparison
| Non-certified Ruby | Certified Ruby |
|---|---|
| Unknown quality and authenticity | Guaranteed quality and authenticity |
| No verification of treatments or enhancement | Verification of treatments or enhancement |
| Difficult to appraise value with certainty | Easy to appraise value with certainty |
Gemstone certification is an important aspect of the gemstone market. It helps buyers and sellers make informed decisions and ensures that rubies are of exceptional quality and authenticity. By obtaining a gemstone certificate from a reputable laboratory, you can benefit from increased transparency, easy appraisal, and peace of mind when purchasing a ruby.
Ruby Mining Process
When it comes to mining rubies, the process is not as simple as just finding a rough stone and polishing it. In fact, there are several steps involved in the mining process, each of which requires specialized skills and tools. One of the most important steps in the process is identifying where rubies may be found.
- Exploration: The first step in the mining process is to explore the land to find where rubies might be located. This requires skilled geologists and explorers who can identify the types of rock formations that are likely to contain rubies.
- Extraction: Once a potential source of rubies has been identified, the next step is to extract the rough stones from the ground. This can involve a variety of methods, including underground mining, open-pit mining, and alluvial mining.
- Sorting: After the rough stones have been extracted, they must be sorted to separate the rubies from other minerals and rocks. This is usually done using water or magnets.
Once the rubies have been extracted and sorted, they are sent to various processing facilities where they undergo cutting, polishing, and other treatments to prepare them for the jewelry market.
One interesting aspect of ruby mining is that not all rubies are created equal. In fact, the quality of rubies can vary tremendously depending on factors such as their color, clarity, and size. To help gemologists and buyers understand the value of a ruby, there is a specific grading system that is used to evaluate these various characteristics.
| Grading | Characteristics | Description |
|---|---|---|
| A | Color | Vivid, intense hue |
| B | Color | Bright, strong hue |
| C | Color | Medium to light hue |
| 1 | Clarity | No visible inclusions |
| 2 | Clarity | Slight inclusions that are difficult to see with the naked eye |
| 3 | Clarity | Visible inclusions that may affect the stone’s durability and appearance |
| 1/2 | Size | Over 1 carat |
| 1/4-1/2 | Size | Between 1/4 and 1/2 carat |
| Under 1/4 | Size | Under 1/4 carat |
Overall, ruby mining is a complex and fascinating process that involves a combination of skills and technologies. From exploration and extraction to sorting and grading, every step of the process involves careful attention to detail to ensure that the rubies are of the highest quality.
How to Identify a Natural Ruby
Identifying a natural ruby can be quite tricky. Thus, you need to hone your eyes and skills to spot the difference between natural and synthetic ones. Here are five ways to differentiate between a natural and artificial ruby:
- Price: While it may seem counter-intuitive, the price can be an indicator of the authenticity of a ruby. Natural rubies are rare, which makes them more valuable and more expensive than synthetic ones. If the price seems too good to be true, then it probably is.
- Color: Natural rubies are not uniform in color. They can range from pink to blood-red, with secondary hues of brown and purple. Synthetic rubies, on the other hand, have a consistent color. This is because synthetic rubies are created in labs and can be manipulated to produce the perfect shade.
- Inclusions: Natural rubies have natural inclusions like bubbles, fissures, and minerals. They are not perfect, which makes them unique. In contrast, synthetic rubies don’t have any inclusions as they are created in controlled laboratory conditions.
- Fluorescence: Natural rubies will glow under UV light, whereas synthetic ones won’t. You can even use UV light to distinguish between different types of rubies, including Burmese rubies and Thai rubies.
- Hardness: Natural rubies are very hard. On the Mohs scale of hardness, they rank at 9, which is second only to diamonds. Synthetic rubies have a hardness rating of 8.5, which is still very high but not as durable as natural rubies.
Conclusion
These are just some of the ways to identify a natural ruby. It’s always best to have a professional gemologist look at a ruby before purchasing it. With the right tools and expertise, they can easily identify whether a ruby is natural or synthetic. Remember, a natural ruby is not only beautiful but also a valuable investment.
| Aspect | Natural Ruby | Synthetic Ruby |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Found in mines | Created in a lab |
| Price | Expensive | Cheap |
| Color | Varies in shades | Uniform color |
| Inclusions | Natural inclusions | No inclusions |
| Fluorescence | Glow under UV light | Don’t glow under UV light |
| Hardness | Rank 9 on Mohs scale | Rank 8.5 on Mohs scale |
Remember, if you want to ensure that you’re getting a natural ruby, always buy from reputable dealers and have the stone evaluated by an expert gemologist. With this knowledge, you can make an informed decision and own a genuine, beautiful natural ruby.
Synthetic Ruby vs. Natural Ruby
Rubies are a type of gemstone that are highly prized for their deep red color and high durability. But not all rubies are created equal. In fact, there are significant differences between synthetic and natural rubies. In this article, we’ll explore these differences in detail to help you make informed decisions when choosing a ruby for your jewelry collection.
One of the most significant differences between synthetic and natural rubies lies in their origin and composition. Natural rubies are formed deep within the Earth’s crust under intense heat and pressure. They are typically composed of aluminum oxide with the presence of chromium, which gives them their red color. Synthetic rubies, on the other hand, are made in a laboratory. They are typically composed of aluminum oxide with the addition of other elements to produce the desired color.
- Synthetic rubies are typically less expensive than natural rubies.
- Synthetic rubies are often more consistent in color and clarity than natural rubies.
- Natural rubies are typically more durable and valuable than synthetic rubies.
Another significant difference between synthetic and natural rubies is their availability. Natural rubies are rare and difficult to find, which makes them more valuable. Synthetic rubies, on the other hand, can be produced in large quantities in a laboratory setting, which makes them more readily available and less expensive.
It’s also important to note that synthetic rubies can be produced in a variety of ways, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, flux-grown synthetic rubies are produced using a flux material that helps to grow the crystal. This method produces high-quality rubies that are very similar to natural rubies in terms of their composition and appearance.
| Synthetic Ruby | Natural Ruby |
|---|---|
| Produced in a laboratory | Produced in the Earth’s crust |
| Less expensive | More expensive |
| More consistent in color and clarity | Variations in color and clarity |
| More readily available | Rare and difficult to find |
| Can be produced using a variety of methods | N/A |
Ultimately, the choice between synthetic and natural rubies comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for an affordable and consistent ruby, a synthetic one may be the way to go. If you’re looking for a rare and valuable gemstone, a natural ruby may be the better choice. Either way, make sure to do your research and work with a reputable jeweler to ensure that you’re getting a high-quality ruby that will last for years to come.
The Value of Rubies in the Jewelry Industry
Rubies are one of the most popular gemstones in the jewelry industry. They are known for their bright red color, durability, and rarity. Rubies are a symbol of love, passion, and power. In this article, we will explore the value of rubies in the jewelry industry.
One of the factors that determine the value of rubies is their color. The most valuable rubies are those that have a deep, rich red color with a slight hint of blue. These rubies are often referred to as “pigeon blood” rubies. Rubies with a lighter shade of red or with purplish or brownish hues are less valuable.
Another factor that affects the value of rubies is their clarity. Rubies with few or no visible inclusions are considered more valuable than those with visible inclusions. Inclusions are characteristics that are visible on the surface or inside of the gemstone. They can affect the overall appearance and durability of the ruby.
The size of the ruby also plays a role in determining its value. Larger rubies are rarer than smaller ones and, therefore, more valuable. However, the quality of the ruby is more important than its size. A small, high-quality ruby can be more valuable than a large, low-quality one.
- Color is the most important factor in determining the value of rubies.
- Clarity is another factor that affects the value of rubies.
- The size of the ruby also plays a role in determining its value.
Another factor that affects the value of rubies is the origin of the gemstone. Rubies from certain locations are considered more valuable than others. The most prized rubies come from Burma (now known as Myanmar). Burmese rubies are known for their exceptional color and are considered the most valuable. Rubies from Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar are also highly prized.
Finally, the cut of the ruby can also impact its value. A well-cut ruby will showcase its color and brilliance to its best advantage, while a poorly cut ruby will appear dull and lifeless. The most popular cuts for rubies are oval and cushion cuts.
| Factor | Impact on Value |
|---|---|
| Color | Most important factor |
| Clarity | Affects the value |
| Size | Plays a role in determining value |
| Origin | Affects the value |
| Cut | Can impact the value |
In conclusion, rubies are a valuable and highly prized gemstone in the jewelry industry. Their bright red color, durability, and rarity make them one of the most sought-after gemstones. The value of rubies is determined by a variety of factors including color, clarity, size, origin, and cut. When purchasing a ruby, it is important to consider all of these factors to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.
FAQs on Are All Rubies Filled
1. What does it mean for a ruby to be “filled”?
Filled rubies have small fractures or cavities that have been filled with substances such as lead glass, resin, or oil to enhance their clarity and color.
2. Are all rubies treated in this way?
Not all rubies are filled. Natural rubies with good clarity and color do not need treatment to improve their appearance.
3. How can I tell if a ruby is filled?
Filled rubies may have small bubbles or cracks visible under magnification. A professional gemologist can also test the ruby to determine if it has been treated.
4. Is it safe to buy a filled ruby?
It is safe to buy a filled ruby as long as you are aware of the treatment and the seller discloses it. Filled rubies can be more affordable and can still be beautiful.
5. Do filled rubies last as long as natural rubies?
Filled rubies may not be as durable as natural rubies, as the filling material may deteriorate or discolor over time. However, with proper care, they can still last for many years.
6. Can filled rubies be repaired?
If the filling material in a ruby deteriorates or is damaged, it can be re-filled or re-polished by a professional jeweler.
7. Are filled rubies worth less than natural rubies?
Filled rubies are generally worth less than untreated natural rubies, but this can vary depending on the quality of the ruby and the type and amount of filling material used.
Closing Thoughts
Thanks for reading our FAQs on filled rubies! Remember, not all rubies are treated, but those that are can still be beautiful and affordable. If you’re in the market for a ruby, be sure to ask about any treatments and consult with a professional gemologist for advice. Come back soon for more informative and engaging content!