Few gems command admiration quite like the ruby—long hailed as the king of precious stones. With its rich crimson hue, unmistakable glow, and storied history, ruby jewellery has adorned royalty, spiritual relics, and lovers for centuries.
Whether you’re searching for a July birthstone, an unforgettable anniversary gift, or a natural ruby ring to pass on as an heirloom, understanding this extraordinary gem only deepens its appeal. In this expert guide, Prins & Prins Diamonds explores the science, symbolism, and investment value of rubies—plus what to look for when purchasing ruby jewellery in South Africa.
What Is a Ruby?
A ruby is the red variety of the mineral corundum, the same family as sapphires. Interestingly, pure corundum is colourless. It’s the trace presence of chromium that gives rubies their signature fiery red tone. The richer the chromium content, the more intense the red.
Importantly, only red corundum can be called ruby—any other colour (even pink or orange) is classified as a sapphire.
The History & Symbolism of Ruby
Rubies have captivated cultures for millennia. In ancient Sanskrit, ruby was called ratnaraj, meaning king of precious stones. In the Bible, rubies are likened to wisdom, and in medieval Europe, they were believed to protect warriors in battle.
Today, rubies are not only the birthstone for July but also the traditional gift for 15th and 40th wedding anniversaries, symbolising passion, protection, and everlasting love.
The Name & the Science Behind Ruby
The word “ruby” comes from the Latin ruber, meaning red. Before modern gemology emerged in the 1800s, many red gemstones—such as garnets and spinels—were mistaken for rubies.
Modern gemologists now recognise ruby as one of the hardest gemstones, scoring 9 on the Mohs scale—second only to diamond. This makes rubies not only breathtaking but also highly durable for everyday wear.
How Rubies Are Formed
Natural rubies form deep within the Earth under immense heat and pressure, often in metamorphic rocks such as marble or schist. These geological conditions, typically near tectonic plate boundaries, allow chromium to bond with corundum—creating ruby’s iconic red glow.
The rarity of these specific conditions, combined with the millions of years it takes to form a ruby, makes high-quality natural rubies exceptionally valuable.
Evaluating a Ruby’s Value: The 4 Cs
Like diamonds, rubies are evaluated by the Four Cs: Colour, Clarity, Cut, and Carat. However, colour is by far the most influential factor in determining a ruby’s worth.
1. Colour
The most prized rubies feature a vivid, deep red with a slight bluish undertone—known in the trade as pigeon blood red. These are extremely rare and command the highest prices.
2. Clarity
Most natural rubies have inclusions. In fact, inclusion-free rubies are virtually unheard of. Common inclusions, such as silk-like rutile needles, can actually prove a ruby’s natural origin and are not necessarily a drawback.
3. Cut
Rubies are often cut into oval or cushion shapes to enhance colour and brilliance. A well-cut ruby should appear evenly coloured, with minimal dark patches or “windows.”
4. Carat
As with most gemstones, the value of a ruby increases exponentially with size—especially for stones with rich colour and excellent clarity.
Natural vs Treated vs Synthetic Rubies
Natural Rubies
These are mined from the earth and are the most desirable. Inclusions or slight imperfections are signs of authenticity.
Treated Rubies
Most rubies on the market undergo heat treatment—a widely accepted practice that enhances colour and clarity. However, more invasive treatments, like lead-glass filling, can reduce a ruby’s value and stability.
Synthetic Rubies
First created in the 19th century, lab-grown rubies are chemically identical to natural ones but are grown under controlled conditions. While often flawless, they lack the rarity and prestige of natural stones.
Imitations
Gems like red spinel, garnet, and even coloured glass have historically been passed off as rubies. To avoid disappointment, always buy certified stones from reputable jewellers like Prins & Prins.
Fascinating Ruby Phenomena
Some rubies exhibit rare and beautiful optical effects:
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Star Ruby (Asterism): Displays a star-like pattern caused by silk inclusions when viewed under direct light.
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Colour-Change Ruby: Rare stones that shift in hue under different lighting—from red to pink or violet.
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Cat’s Eye Ruby (Chatoyancy): A luminous band of light glides across the surface, creating a hypnotic visual effect.
Where Are Rubies Mined?
Ruby origin influences both appearance and value. Key sources include:
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Myanmar (Burma): Known for the world’s finest pigeon blood rubies with exceptional clarity.
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Thailand: Produces darker rubies with burgundy undertones—desirable for their richness and affordability.
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Mozambique: An emerging source with vibrant colours and star ruby specimens.
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Madagascar: Offers rubies with unique pinkish-red tones, ideal for collectors.
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Tanzania: Home to deep red rubies that resemble garnets in saturation.
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Afghanistan: Produces lighter red rubies with a distinctive charm.
Buying Ruby Jewellery in South Africa
At Prins & Prins Diamonds, we pride ourselves on sourcing natural, certified rubies with full transparency regarding origin and treatments. Whether you’re looking for a ruby engagement ring, anniversary gift, or a custom heirloom piece, we provide gemstone certification from leading authorities such as GIA and IGI.
Located in Cape Town, our jewellery experts are here to help you explore our curated ruby collections or design something truly one-of-a-kind.
Why Ruby Makes the Perfect Heirloom
A high-quality ruby is more than just a jewel—it’s a story passed through generations. Rubies have graced the crowns of monarchs, engagement rings, and family heirlooms for centuries. Even today, rubies from Queen Elizabeth II’s collection are worn by the Princess of Wales—proof of the stone’s timeless appeal.
Final Thoughts: The Lasting Magic of Ruby
Whether you’re drawn to its vibrant colour, symbolic meaning, or royal heritage, the ruby remains one of the most enchanting gemstones on Earth.
If you’re ready to discover the perfect ruby jewellery in South Africa, visit Prins & Prins Diamonds. Our expert gemmologists will help you find a ruby that speaks to your heart and suits your lifestyle—because a ruby isn’t just worn, it’s cherished for life.
