Ruby Mines: Explore Origins, Varieties, and Quality Insights

Ruby stones, also known as the King of Gemstones, have captured humankind over centuries. This piece of gemstone can be seen in ancient as well as modern jewellery. The most important question that arises is what the origin of this precious gemstone is, what the varieties are and how to see if the quality is good or not.

To answer all these questions, we have this article that will provide you a deeper knowledge of things you need to know about Ruby.

Origin of Rubies Around the World

There are a few places where ruby stone can be found; let’s have a closer look at different mining locations and their specific characteristics.

Myanmar

Myanmar has the most known source of rubies available. They are also known as the Burmese rubies or the pigeon’s blood ruby. The valley wherein rubies are found in Myanmar is called the “Mogok Valley” or the “Valley of Rubies.” This valley is known for producing some of the best rubies in the last few centuries. The mining history of these valleys can be traced back to the 6^th century as per the Sanskrit texts.
The name pigeon’s blood ruby is given to these ruby stones because of their vibrant red colour with a hint of blue. Due to their quality, these rubies are quite famous among the collectors. Additionally, Myanmar remains the highest producer of rubies and contributes significantly to the global market by giving the highest quality gemstone.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, or Ceylon, as known in historical times, is famous for their pinkish-red colour rubies. These rubies are mostly found in the district of Ratnapura (Gem City). When compared to the Burmese rubies, the Sri Lankan rubies have a different shade of red but are famous because of their clarity, making them a desirable gemstone in the market.

Thailand

After Myanmar, Thailand is one of the major players in the market for ruby production. The Chantaburi and Trat regions of Thailand are known for producing dark-toned rubies that are less vibrant in comparison to the Burmese rubies.
Despite having dark tones in their gemstones, the Thai rubies have to undergo heat treatment for better clarity of the stones. This is the reason why they are priced lower than the Burmese rubies.

Mozambique

Over the recent years, Mozambique rubies have gained more popularity of being a significant player in the market. This is because the ruby from this region has the similar vibrance as that of the Burmese Ruby.
Another reason for their popularity is their vibrant red colour but at a lower price.

India

India has a vast majority of the population that is inclined towards the consumption of rubies. Significantly, the current ruby mines in India can be found in the city of Pundir, Rajasthan, along with the Karur region in Tamil Nadu and the cities of Channapatna and Madikeri in Karnataka. Rubies from this region are known for their six-rayed Star Ruby. Even though these rubies cannot be compared to the Burmese or the Sri Lankan rubies, they hold great value.

Varieties of Rubies

Now that we have an understanding of the different origins of rubies around the world, let’s have a deeper understanding of the varieties to which this gemstone pertains.

Burmese Ruby (Pigeon’s Blood Ruby)

These rubies are considered the cream layer of rubies across the world. They have a unique red colour with a slight tint of blue in it, because of which they are given the name Pigeon’s Blood. This name is specifically used for the top-quality Burmese Ruby.
The reason for the Burmese rubies to be of such high demand is because they are mostly free of any inclusions, along with being scarce and having historical significance.

Thai Ruby

Thai rubies are dark in colour, almost resembling a garnet. These are preferred by people seeking a ruby for fashion and are inclined towards a sophisticated look.
The downside for these rubies is that they have to undergo heat treatment for improving their colour and clarity.

Sri Lankan Ruby (Ceylon Ruby)

Sri Lankan rubies are famous for their clarity and inclusion-free availability. These have a slightly lighter colour in comparison to the Burmese or Thai Ruby.
The Sri Lankan rubies are more inclined towards a natural, elegant, and delicate appearance.

Mozambican Ruby

Mozambican rubies have gained their name in the market because of their deep colour resemblance to Burmese rubies and lesser price value.
The prices are lower in comparison to the Burmese ruby because they do not have a history and are heat treated for enhancing their colour.

Quality Insights of Rubies

There are several factors that affect the quality and price of a ruby; some of them are as follows-

Colour

First and foremost is the colour of the ruby that determines the quality of the ruby. Around the world, various colours have been procured, but the Myanmar ruby has the most significance because of its vibrant red colour. There are other colours available as well, but their demand is less than that of the Burmese ruby.

Clarity

Second is the clarity of the stone. This means that since ruby is a natural stone, it has certain inclusions in it; therefore, the stone with the least amount of inclusion and more transparency is considered the best in value.

Cut

Just like Diamond, a cut of ruby can impact significantly in enhancing its colour and attractiveness. There are some staple cuts in which a ruby can be seen, those are oval, cushion, or round, depending on the rough shape.

Carat Weight

Carat weight is the key for determining the ruby stone price, like any gemstone. Since finding a large ruby is rare, that is why their prices increase exponentially. However, even smaller rubies are of great price depending on their clarity and colour composition.

Conclusion

Astrologically speaking rubies are the most seeked gemstones, which holds great significance. It depends on you if you want to buy a Burmese Ruby stone or an Indian Ruby, there are varieties available for you. The most important aspect to be considered when you buy ruby online is the understanding of the stone, and a reliable source.

When you think to buy rubies online, make sure you are working with a reliable platform such as GemsRoot that has lab-certified gemstones, worldwide shipping, and transparent and unmatched prices. You’ll get all the varieties at a reasonable price with proper guidance and quality assurance.