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 the 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.

Rubies are 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 July 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.