At Setdart we have created a unique selection of jewelry, which we will present at auction on December 16. Among the wonderful pieces we have gathered, rubies stand out and, in this post, we offer you a guide to buy the perfect ruby.
Ruby: more than a material
Since ancient times, the ruby has been more than a material, being considered a symbol, to which different societies have attributed different meanings. For example, the ancient Burmese considered it the stone of soldiers and Hindu mythology considered it the “king of precious stones”.
The popularity of the ruby has transcended in time and has been protagonist in the lives of iconic characters, such as Elisabeth Taylor, to whom her husband, Mike Todd, gave a spectacular set of rubies and diamonds, or the engagement ring of Princess Margaret of England, which was a triplet of rubies surrounded by diamonds.
- Color and purity
Its color can vary from deep red, almost purplish, to a pinkish red, which is very close to the appearance of a pink sapphire. This characteristic is determinant to know its value, the perfect ruby has an intense and rich crimson. It is important to remember that colored stones often have inclusions within the stone, part of their “DNA”. Rarity means value, and don’t worry if you see them, they make your stone unique.
- Treatments
You should ask for information about all the treatments that have been applied to it, as they can influence the price of the ruby. It is very common that it has received a heat treatment, which is completely acceptable. But, if it is a stone of considerable size and qualities, it is always advisable to have it certified in a gemological laboratory.
- Size
There are several types of sizes, for example, among the most common are the oval sizes and the so-called cushion size. Among the most original, we highlight the heart size, which is more difficult to find.
