It’s the eternal question: Diamond vs Ruby? When it comes to buying precious stones, there are many factors to consider. Two of the most popular options are rubies and diamonds. Both are beautiful stones with a long history of tradition and meaning. 

However, there are some key differences between the two gems. So which is the better choice? It depends on what you’re looking for. 

Let’s break it down below!

What is a Diamond? 

A diamond is a piece of carbon subjected to extreme pressure and heat deep underground.

This process creates an extremely hard and durable stone, which is why diamonds are often used in jewelry.

Diamonds come in many different colors, but the most prized are those with unique natural colors. 

Diamonds are typically found in Africa, specifically in Botswana, Angola, South Africa, and Namibia. There are also diamond mines in Australia, Russia, and Canada. 

What is a Ruby?

Rubies are beautiful deep red gemstones that have been used in jewelry for centuries. Ruby is a type of corundum, which is a mineral that is hard and durable.

The most valuable ruby is “pigeon blood red.” This precious stone ranges in color from light pink to dark red. Ruby is often heat-treated to improve its color.

Most rubies are found in many parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Kashmir, Myanmar, and Thailand.

Ruby is believed to bring good luck and protect its wearer from harm.

Origins of Diamonds

Diamonds were first discovered in India over 2000 years ago. They were then brought to Europe by traders and became popular among royalty and the upper class.

The name “diamond” comes from the Greek word “Adamas,” which means “unbreakable.” Diamonds have been used as symbols of power and strength for centuries.

In recent years, fancy colored diamonds, such as yellow, pink and blue have become a popular engagement ring choice and are seen as a symbol of everlasting love.

Origins of Rubies

On the other hand, rubies have been mined in Myanmar for hundreds of years and were cherished by rulers of ancient civilizations. In fact, rubies were so valuable that they were often used as currency.

The name “ruby” comes from the Latin word “Rubens,” which means “red.” Rubies have been associated with royalty and wealth for centuries.

Rubies are also believed to have many healing properties. They are said to improve circulation, relieve pain, and boost energy levels.

Which is more expensive Diamond vs Ruby?

Diamonds and rubies are precious gemstones used in jewelry. They are both very durable, which makes them ideal for everyday wear.

However, some key differences between diamonds and rubies can affect their price.

Diamond’s costs are rated on a different scale than rubies, which means they are typically more expensive. However, rubies can vary greatly in price depending on their quality and color.

So while diamonds may be more expensive on average, there is a greater range in price for rubies.

Clarity

When it comes to clarity, diamonds are incredible gems that can often be flawless to the naked eye.

On the other hand, rubies usually have some flaws, but this doesn’t make them any less beautiful. Many rubies have a unique beauty all their own, thanks to the way they form and the higher iron content.

While diamonds may be more commonly clear than rubies, it’s important to remember that there are also amazing “flawless” rubies out there.

Cut

There is a large variety of shapes and cuts for both rubies and diamonds.

Ruby cuts tend to be shallower than diamond cuts. This is because rubies have higher specific gravity, meaning they are more resistant to chipping and breaking. As a result, they don’t need to be cut as deep to maintain their integrity.

Additionally, ruby cuts often have fewer facets than diamond cuts. This is because the ruby’s bright red hue is not as affected by light refraction as other colors of gemstones.

These factors contribute to the unique look of ruby and diamond cuts.

Color

The obvious difference between ruby and diamond is their color. Rubies are vivid red, and diamonds are clear. However, there are a few different factors that affect a ruby’s color.

The most important factor is the presence of chromium. The higher the chromium concentration, the deeper the ruby’s red color will be. Another factor that can influence a ruby’s color is iron. Too much iron will result in a brownish or yellowish tint, while too little iron will cause the ruby to appear purple.

In terms of diamond color, the vast majority of diamonds are slightly yellowish due to nitrogen. The intensity of the yellow color varies depending on the amount of nitrogen present.

Colored diamonds, such as red diamonds, cognac diamonds, black diamonds and brown diamonds are very rare. However, it is possible to find completely colorless diamonds. These “white” diamonds are extremely rare and highly valuable.

Which is harder Diamond vs Ruby?

Though rubies and diamonds are both made of carbon, they differ in mineral hardness.

On the Mohs hardness scale, which rates minerals on a scale of 1-10, rubies come in at 9 while diamonds are a 10. This might not seem like a big difference, but it actually makes rubies about 40% softer than diamonds.

As a result, rubies are more likely to show wear over time and require more careful handling. However, this difference in hardness also gives rubies a slight advantage when cutting and polishing. Because they’re slightly softer, rubies can be cut and polished with less risk of breakage.

In the end, both rubies and diamonds are beautiful and durable gems, but each has its own unique strengths.

Which is rarer Diamond vs Ruby?

When it comes to rarity, diamonds are more common than other gemstones. This is because diamonds are formed deep within the Earth’s mantle, while rubies form in the Earth’s crust. 

Due to their incredible color and quality, the best rubies come from Burma (Myanmar). If you’re looking for a good-quality ruby over one carat, you’re in for a real treat—they’re hard to find and extremely expensive!

However, most mined diamonds are small and lack the purity and clarity jewelers prize. So while diamonds may not be as rare as we often think, high-quality diamonds are still quite scarce.

Lab Ruby

Rubies from a lab are grown in a controlled environment and then cut and polished to create the perfect stone. One of the main benefits of lab-created rubies is that they are more affordable than natural ones.

Additionally, because they are grown in a controlled environment, lab rubies tend to be more consistent in color and clarity than natural rubies.

While a lab-created ruby is not as valuable as a natural ruby, they can still be quite beautiful.

Lab Diamond

Lab-grown diamonds are grown under intense, controlled conditions, using some of the most high-tech processes. This means they have the same optical and chemical properties as natural diamonds.

One of the main benefits of lab-grown diamonds is that they are more affordable than natural diamonds. Another benefit is that they are environmentally friendly since they don’t require mining.

So, if you’re trying to decide between a natural diamond and a lab-grown diamond, it depends on what your priorities are.

Engagement Rings

Both stones are stunning, and each has its unique benefits. Rubies are often seen as symbols of love and passion, making them a popular choice for couples just starting their journey together. However, round brilliant cut diamonds are also incredibly romantic, and their enduring hardness is said to represent the strength of a relationship.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference. Ruby might be a perfect choice if you’re looking for a stone full of fire and passion. But a diamond is hard to beat if you want a ring that will symbolize your everlasting love.

Which do you choose Diamond vs Ruby?

The key difference between the two comes down to what you’re looking for in a piece of jewelry. Both are valuable stones. If you’re looking for a precious gemstone with optimum sparkle, you might want to go with fancy colored diamonds. But high-quality rubies are the way to go if you’re after a piece with rarer colored gemstones and unique character. No matter which of the two precious gems you choose, you’ll get a stunning piece that will last a lifetime.

Learn more about the diamond by reading our blog, A Girl’s Best Friends — Moissanite vs. Diamond?