The Ruby is celebrated in the Bible
and in ancient Sanskrit writings as the most precious
of all gemstones. It has been the prize possession of
emperors and kings throughout the ages.Many people associate
its brilliant crimson colors with passion and love, making
Ruby an ideal choice for an engagement ring. Ruby is the
red variety of the corundum mineral species, while all
other colors of corundum are called Sapphire.
Ruby is mined throughout Southeast Asia. While Thailand
and Burma produce the lion's share, Sri Lanka and Africa
also produce exquisite examples of this gemstone that
the ancient Sinhalese people called "Ratnaraj,"
the King of Gems. In addition, a new find has been discovered
in Madagascar.
This most sought after gemstone is available in a range
of red hues, from a purplish and bluish red to orangish
red. Ruby is readily available in sizes up to 2 carats.
Larger sizes are rare but can be obtained. In its finest
quality, any size Ruby can be scarce. In readily available
small sizes, Ruby makes an excellent accent gemstone
because of its intense, pure red color.
