World Of Ruby

Color

Undoubtedly, the most important characteristic of a ruby is its color. Ideally, a ruby has a rich red color, which however must be neither too dark – so as to not undermine its shine - nor too bright. Many ruby gemstones exhibit pleochromism, the phenomenon of appearing to have a different color when observed under different angles.

Clarity

As with diamonds, emeralds and most precious stones, finding inclusions in rubies is to be expected. The number of these inclusions and the way with which they influence the clarity and the shine of a ruby constitute decisive factors for the determination of its value and, consequently, its price.

Cut

The crystal shape of a ruby dictates to a significant degree the way in which it will be cut, making ‘’oval’’ and ‘’cushion’’ the most common shapes of fashioned rubies. The final decision for a ruby’s cut is multifactorial and depends on considerations such as capturing the gemstone’s ideal color when it exhibits pleochroism, wishing to conserve as much of its weight as possible, as well as fitting it to the individual jewel for which it may be destined.

Carat

A ruby’s weight is measured in carats. Rubies exceeding 1 carat in weight are very rare, especially when the ruby can be said to be of a fine quality because of its extraordinary color and clarity.