Rubies are one of the most precious and valuable gemstones in the world. Known for their rich red color and exceptional hardness, rubies have been coveted throughout history and across cultures. In this post, we will explore some of the most famous rubies in the world and their cultural and historical significance.

The Mogok Valley Ruby

The Mogok Valley in Burma is renowned for producing some of the finest rubies in the world. The Mogok Valley Ruby, also known as the "pigeon's blood" ruby, is considered to be among the most exquisite. This ruby is prized for its deep red color and exceptional clarity. The Mogok Valley Ruby has a long and fascinating history, with some sources claiming it has been mined for over a thousand years. Today, the Mogok Valley Ruby is owned by private collectors and is not publicly displayed.

The Sunrise Ruby

The Sunrise Ruby is a 25.59-carat Burmese ruby that was sold at auction in 2015 for a record-breaking $30 million. The ruby's intense red color and exceptional clarity make it one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world. The Sunrise Ruby is believed to have originated from the Mogok Valley in Burma and has a long and storied history. In Hindu culture, the ruby is associated with the sun and is believed to bring good luck and fortune.

The Rosser Reeves Star Ruby

The Rosser Reeves Star Ruby is a 138.7-carat ruby that was discovered in Sri Lanka in the 1950s. The ruby is named after its former owner, advertising executive Rosser Reeves, who donated the gemstone to the Smithsonian Institution in 1965. The Rosser Reeves Star Ruby is notable for its six-pointed star pattern, which is created by asterism, a phenomenon caused by the reflection of light off the ruby's rutile inclusions.

The Chhatrapati Manik Ruby

The Chhatrapati Manik Ruby is a 20-carat ruby that is believed to have been owned by the Maratha Emperor Chhatrapati Shivaji. The ruby is said to have been passed down through the royal family for generations before being auctioned in 2015 for over $6 million. The Chhatrapati Manik Ruby is highly prized for its rich red color and exceptional clarity.

The Rajaratna Ruby

The Rajaratna Ruby is a 2,475-carat ruby that was discovered in the Ratnapura region of Sri Lanka in the 1980s. The ruby is believed to be one of the largest in the world and is valued at over $100 million. The Rajaratna Ruby has a rich history and is believed to have been owned by royalty in ancient times. Today, the ruby is owned by a private collector and is not publicly displayed.

Other Famous Rubies

In addition to the rubies mentioned above, there are many other famous rubies that have captured the attention of gemstone enthusiasts and collectors. These include the De Long Star Ruby, the Liberty Bell Ruby, and the Alan Caplan Ruby, among others. Each of these rubies has its own unique history, cultural significance, and physical characteristics that make it a treasured gemstone.

Conclusion

Rubies are not only beautiful and valuable, but they also have a rich cultural and historical significance that spans centuries and continents. The Mogok Valley Ruby, the Sunrise Ruby, the Rosser Reeves Star Ruby, the Chhatrapati Manik Ruby, and the Rajaratna Ruby are just a few examples of the world's most famous and highly prized rubies. Whether you are a collector, a gemstone enthusiast, or simply appreciate the beauty