(215 products available)
Natural Rubies
Natural rubies, which are made of corundum, have the property of red. Therefore, such rubies are precious stones. Especially, the clear natural rubies are precious due to their inclusions and hence relatively affordable. Natural ruby stone ruby price per carat is close to $500. However, a higher price may be fetched depending on the quality.
Heat-Treated Rubies
The most common type of rubies is heat-treated rubies. This is because heat treatment enhances the red color and clarity of many rubies. Such rubies are relatively affordable. However, without considering the treatment, the rubies' prices could increase significantly. One carat of a heat-treated ruby costs about $150.
Synthetic Rubies
Synthetic rubies are lab-created and often priced lower than natural rubies. When they can afford it, this makes it easier for people to have rubies. Generally, one carat of synthetic Ruby costs approximately $20.
Star Rubies
Star rubies, which are rare corundum crystals, exhibit asterism. It is an optical phenomenon that shows a star-like shape on the ruby's surface. However, these rubies tend to be more expensive due to their unique features. The rarest rubies in the market today are star rubies. One carat price of star rubies is around $2000.
Burmese Rubies
Burma is a country that is known to produce some of the best quality rubies. This is because their rubies are well known for their vibrant red color. Therefore, because of their quality, Burmese rubies command a higher price in the market. The price of one carat of this ruby is about $3,500.
Ruby Solitaire Rings
A ruby solitaire ring is a type of engagement ring that features a single ruby stone set in a sleek band. Thus, a ruby solitaire ring accentuates the stone's deep red hue and makes it a striking choice for lovers of classic jewelry. One carat of ruby in this design costs about $6000.
Ruby Halo Earrings
A ruby halo earring contains rubies at its center and a halo of smaller diamonds or other gemstones around it. Henceforth, this setting enhances the earrings' elegance and makes them look more dazzling. Also, because of the additional diamond surrounding the rubies, one carat of ruby in halo earrings costs about $4,000.
Ruby Tennis Bracelets
A ruby tennis bracelet is made by using rubies in a continuous line or pattern. This gives the bracelet a chic and modern look. The combination of rubies and gold or silver adds a touch of luxury to the design. However, ruby stone prices can be high. This means that one carat of ruby in a tennis bracelet is around $7,000.
Vintage Ruby Pendant Necklaces
Often, vintage styles are known for their intricate details and could be designed with an old-world charm. This extends to ruby pendant necklaces. These rubies have ornate settings that make the stones more vibrant and eye-catching. Therefore, depending on the design complexity, one carat of ruby in a vintage pendant could go for about $5,000.
Art Deco Ruby Brooches
If not found, brooches are accessories that can be pinned onto clothing. When found, art deco brooches feature geometrical shapes and bold colors, including striking rubies. These were produced by applying the typical art deco style. Therefore, this enhances the overall look of the brooch and makes it a fabulous addition to any outfit. Note that one carat of ruby in this brooch costs about $4,000.
Carat Weight
The price of rubies increases with an increase in their carat weight. For instance, small rubies may cost less per carat than larger ones. This is true especially when considering high-quality stones. In terms of emeralds, one carat typically weighs about 0.2 grams.
Color
Referring to precious gems, red is the ideal color for rubies. The purest form of ruby lacks any hues. However, since inclusions are found in most colored stones, they should be microscopic in nature to avoid affecting the beauty of the gemstone. This is because such inclusions can significantly lower the color's intensity.
Clarity
Generally, gemstone quality is determined by how clear the stone is. Rubies that are clear with few inclusions are highly valued. Therefore, rubies meant for jewelry should have a clarity grade of at least 80%. This clarity grade is measured by GIA.
Cut
Ideally, rubies are cut into standard shapes to maximize their beauty. Therefore, any alteration from the standard shape may lower the stone's value. Nevertheless, the cutting quality should be high to allow for optimal light reflection.
Origin
Mostly, rubies from Myanmar are highly valued. For centuries, this stone has produced some of the best Burmese rubies. In the heart of the country, miners extract them. Today, there are other countries that produce rubies. However, few match the quality of Burmese rubies.
Treatment
Most stones in the market undergo treatment. For instance, heat treatment enhances color and clarity. Ideally, heat-treated rubies are cheaper than untreated rubies. Nonetheless, their price depends on the extent of treatment.
Special Occasions
Thanks to their deep red color, ruby stones make ideal gifts for special moments. For instance, engagement rings and anniversary earrings are best presented as ruby stones. Rubies symbolize love and passion. Therefore, they are good choices during romantic occasions.
Luxury and Fashion
Rubies fall under the category of high-end jewelry in the fashion world. Models regularly wear ruby-embedded pieces on runways and in photoshoots. This proves their effectiveness in enhancing outfits and making them more eye-catching. Having a rich color, rubies go well with various outfits, from simple ones to complex ones. This allows them to be extremely versatile.
Cultural and Religious Significance
Rubies are regarded as symbols of strength, protection, and good fortune in many cultures. In Hinduism, rubies are enshrined in jewelry pieces, which represent the deity and worn for blessings. Therefore, in celebrations and cultural rituals, people normally use ruby jewelry in the East and West alike.
Investment
Usually, high-quality rubies are rare and highly expensive. This makes them a preferred choice for investors. If carefully selected, ruby stones appreciate in value over time. This makes interested parties view them as a long-term financial investment. Indeed, the demand for rubies in the market contributes to its investment value.
Customization and Personalization
Currently, a number of jewelers offer personalized ruby designs. These allow customers to have unique pieces that hold special meaning. From engraved settings to custom designs, rubies can be tailored to reflect personal stories. Thus making them a choice for people seeking individualized jewelry creations.
Storage
Preferably, rubies should be stored separately from other gemstones and jewelry. This is due to their hardness, which can scratch softer materials. To avoid danger, store rubies in lined boxes or pouches made of cloth. Further, keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Cleaning
Cleaning rubies is easy, but it should be done gently. Usually, a mild soap solution and a soft cloth are enough to remove any dirt or tarnish. Therefore, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. This is because they are likely to damage the stone or its setting.
Avoiding Impact
Although rubies are one of the hardest gemstones, they can still chip or scratch if dropped or impacted. Hence, be careful with ruby jewelry during physical activities, and take care not to expose loose stones to rough surfaces.
Inspection
Regularly check ruby jewelry for any signs of damage or loosening settings. Thus, early detection can prevent further damage. It also goes a long way in ensuring the longevity of the piece. Usually, it is advisable to have valuable jewelry items inspected by a professional jeweler at least once a year.
Heat and Light Exposure
Extended exposure to heat and bright light can potentially affect rubies over time. Thus, avoid leaving ruby jewelry in direct sunlight or near sources of heat. This helps maintain the stone's color and integrity in the long run.
Professional Care
For significant or vintage ruby pieces, it's best to have them cared for by a professional jeweler. These professionals have expertise in handling and repairing rubies and can ensure that the stones are properly maintained.
Value is determined by evaluating factors like color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Other key factors are origin and treatment.
Rubies' rare quality and intense color make them more expensive than other stones. In terms hardness, the stones measure 9 on the Mohs scale.
Yes, rubies that have been mined traditionally are more expensive. This is because the rubies undergo minimal processing before they hit the markets.
Although rubies tend to be expensive, they are consider as cost effective. They are durable and have immense luster.
Jewelry experts use thermal and magnification tests to tell the authenticity of rubies.