You might be wondering, how rare are rubies? Let’s talk about rubies!  Symbolizing royalty and wealth for thousands of years, this mesmerizing and coveted gemstone is not only beautiful but also inspiring. 

The ruby’s fiery hue inspires passion, love, courage, and devotion while guarding its wearer’s wealth and rank.  Large rubies are scarce and command prices that rival even the finest diamonds.  Rubies are July’s birthstone and the stone to celebrate a 40th wedding anniversary.

Shop our collection of ruby jewelry!

How rare are rubies, and where can you find them?

In ancient India, ruby was called the “king of precious stones” for its rarity, hardness (second only to diamond), beauty, and seemingly mystical powers.

Since the late 20th century, Vietnam has been another important source for the July birthstone. The Luc Yen region in northern Vietnam, where rainforest-clad mountains rise over broad paddy fields, produces rubies of red to purplish red color.

Farther south, the Quy Chau district has also yielded many fine rubies. Today, artisanal miners work the soil hoping to find a gem that will change their fortunes.

Care

Rubies are rated “excellent” for everyday wear.  Here are a few helpful hints for keeping your rubies as good as new:

• Avoid exposure to heat and contact with chemicals.
• To clean, gently scrub with a soft toothbrush and a solution of mild dish soap and warm water, or clean in an at-home ultrasonic unit.

Rubies History

What do you think of when you hear the word ‘ruby?’  Blood red?  Fire red?  Rubies have often been described as being the color of life itself.  The mineral Chromium gives the ruby its piercing color.

Considered the “king of gems,” rubies are one of the world’s oldest, most revered gemstones.  They are also among the rarest!  The highest quality rubies with barely any inclusions are so rare that they can fetch higher prices than diamonds!

Because of their fiery, romantic brilliance and intensity, rubies will certainly command attention.  When they are set in a way that focuses attention on their color, they communicate glamour and femininity. 

Many times, rubies will be included in geometric-inspired jewelry that appeals to both men and women wanting to convey strength, honor, and classic style.

Rubies are the birthstone of those born in July and born under the sign of Aries.  Its arresting hue that communicates love and passion makes it a fitting gem to celebrate the 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries.

As noted, ruby-producing countries include Thailand, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Tanzania, and Madagascar; almost 90% of the world’s production of

 is from Myanmar.  Due to human rights abuses in this country, the United States government has banned imports from Myanmar, making our on-hand supply of Ruby limited. 

We do, however, currently offer a small assortment of untreated Ruby from Madagascar.  Thailand was once a major contributor of Ruby to the world, producing the famous “Siam” Ruby.

Did you know that rubies were also the July’s birthstone? Learn more about the different birthstones and which month they represent.

Quality Information

AAA: Medium-dark pinkish-red to red; eye clean; good brilliance; excellent cut; good polish

 AA: Medium-dark pinkish-red; eye clean; good brilliance; good cut; good polish

A: Medium pinkish red; slightly included; good cut; good polish

B: Light pinkish-red; included; good cut; good polish

Commercial: Commercial quality; variation in color; included

Ruby Pro Tips:

• To care for your rubies, make sure to clean them gently with a solution of dish soap and water or using an at-home ultrasonic unit.
• Ruby jewelry is perfect for both men and women and is both romantic and powerful.
• At Bling Advisor, we also help you to find exactly what you are looking for.  Instead of offering a list of customization options to choose from, we can bring your dream piece of jewelry to life!

Send us your jewelry design today!  We have access to all of the industry’s best suppliers so that we can find the perfect ruby for you.