Rubies are one of the most prized gemstones in the world, known for their deep red color and brilliance. In this post, we will explore the journey of ruby from its formation to a cut and polished gemstone. Understanding this journey is important for anyone interested in rubies, as it sheds light on the complex and fascinating world of gemstones. 

Explanation of Rubies

Rubies are a type of corundum mineral, with the chemical composition of aluminum oxide. They are known for their red color, which comes from the presence of chromium in the mineral. Rubies are extremely hard, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, and are highly valued as gemstones.

Brief History of Rubies

Rubies have a rich history that dates back to ancient times. They have been prized by cultures all over the world, from the ancient Egyptians to the Burmese. In many cultures, rubies were believed to have mystical powers and were used in rituals and ceremonies.

Importance of Understanding the Journey of a Ruby

Understanding the journey of a ruby is important for several reasons. It helps us appreciate the beauty and rarity of this gemstone, and also sheds light on the complex processes involved in producing a high-quality gemstone. Additionally, understanding the journey of a ruby helps us make informed decisions when buying or selling rubies.

Formation of Rubies

Rubies are formed under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions deep within the Earth's mantle. Over millions of years, geological processes bring these rubies closer to the Earth's surface where they can be mined.

The Geological Conditions Necessary for the Formation of Rubies

Rubies are formed in areas where there are high concentrations of aluminum, iron, and chromium. The presence of these minerals, along with the right pressure and temperature conditions, is necessary for the formation of rubies.

Mining Rubies

Traditional ruby mining methods involve digging into the ground or riverbeds to extract rubies manually. These methods are still used in some areas of the world but are becoming less common. Modern ruby mining methods involve the use of heavy machinery and equipment to extract rubies from the ground. These methods are more efficient and productive but also have a larger environmental impact.

Ruby mining can have a significant impact on the environment, particularly in areas where traditional mining methods are used. Deforestation, water pollution, and soil erosion are all potential environmental concerns related to ruby mining.

Sorting and Grading Rubies

Sorting rough rubies involves separating them based on their color, clarity, and size. This process is important for determining the value of the rubies and ensuring that they are cut and polished to the appropriate standards. The value of a ruby is determined by several factors, including its color, clarity, carat weight, and cut. The most valuable rubies are those that have a deep red color, high clarity, and few inclusions.

How does Ruby Mining and Cutting differ from Sapphire Mining and Cutting?

Ruby mining and cutting differ from sapphire mining and cutting in several ways. While both rubies and sapphires are members of the corundum mineral family and have similar physical properties, there are differences in the specific processes involved in mining and cutting each gemstone.

In terms of mining, rubies are generally found in smaller quantities and in fewer locations than sapphires. Ruby mines tend to be located in areas with high levels of geological activity, such as the mines in Myanmar (formerly known as Burma) and Madagascar. These mines can be difficult to access and often require traditional mining methods, such as hand digging and tunneling. In contrast, sapphires are found in a wider range of locations, including Australia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, and can often be extracted through more modern mining techniques, such as open-pit mining.

When it comes to cutting, rubies are often cut in a specific way to enhance their color and clarity. Due to the high value placed on ruby's red color, cutters often focus on maximizing the stone's color intensity and minimizing any inclusions or flaws. This typically involves cutting the stone with more depth to help improve the color saturation. In contrast, sapphires can be cut in a wider range of styles and shapes due to the variety of colors in which they can be found. Cutters may focus on enhancing a sapphire's clarity or emphasizing the stone's color, depending on the intended use of the gemstone.

Overall, while the mining and cutting processes for rubies and sapphires share some similarities, there are specific differences based on the unique qualities of each gemstone.

Explanation of the Cutting Process for Rubies

Cutting rubies involves shaping them into the desired shape and size while enhancing their brilliance and color. The cutting process is crucial as it directly affects the value of the gemstone.

The first step in the cutting process is to examine the rough ruby and determine the best way to cut it. The cutter needs to consider the shape, size, clarity, and color of the rough stone to determine how to cut it for maximum value and beauty.

Once the cutter has determined the best way to cut the rough ruby, they will use a diamond saw to cut the stone into the desired shape. The most popular shapes for rubies are round, oval, cushion, emerald, pear, and marquise.

After the rough stone has been cut into the desired shape, the cutter will proceed to the faceting process. The cutter will use a grinding wheel to create the facets or flat surfaces on the ruby. The size, shape, and placement of these facets will affect the way the ruby reflects light, which is an essential factor in its overall beauty.

Different Cuts and Shapes of Rubies

Rubies can be cut into various shapes and styles, each with its unique characteristics and beauty. Some of the most popular cuts and shapes of rubies include:

Round Cut – This classic cut is round-shaped, with 58 facets. It is the most popular cut for diamonds and also used for rubies.

Oval Cut – This cut is an elongated version of the round cut and is an excellent choice for rubies as it emphasizes their color.

Cushion Cut – This cut is square or rectangular-shaped with rounded corners, giving the stone a soft, cushion-like appearance.

Emerald Cut – This cut is rectangular with stepped facets, creating a hall of mirrors effect that highlights the ruby's color and clarity.

Pear Cut – This cut is shaped like a teardrop, combining the best features of the oval and marquise cuts.

Marquise-Cut – This cut is shaped like a boat, with pointed ends and curved sides, creating an elongated look that enhances the ruby's color.

Polishing and Finishing Touches on Rubies

Once the cutter has finished faceting the ruby, they will proceed to the polishing process. The polishing process involves buffing the ruby with a series of increasingly fine abrasives until it achieves a high level of brilliance and clarity.

The final step in the cutting and polishing process is to apply any finishing touches to the ruby, such as engraving or texturing. These finishing touches can add extra depth and dimension to the ruby, enhancing its overall beauty and value.