Ruby engagement rings are increasingly popular for couples looking to make a bold and romantic statement. Known for their vibrant red colour and rich history, rubies symbolise love and passion, making them an ideal choice for expressing commitment. This guide will help first-time buyers navigate the essential aspects of selecting the perfect ruby engagement ring, including the significance of rubies, their durability, and the key characteristics to consider.
The Significance of Rubies
Rubies are July's birthstone and one of the four precious gemstones, alongside diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds. They are the red variety of the mineral corundum and have been prized for centuries. In many cultures, rubies are believed to bring good fortune, health, and protection to the wearer. Their association with love and passion makes them a timeless choice for engagement rings. Historically, rubies have adorned the crowns of royalty and ruby engagement rings have also captured the hearts of celebrities. Notable figures like Jessica Simpson and Princess Eugenie of York have chosen stunning ruby rings, showcasing their unique beauty and significance.
Durability of Rubies
One of the standout features of rubies is their durability. With a hardness rating of 9 on the Mohs scale, rubies are second only to diamonds in terms of scratch resistance. This makes them an excellent choice for everyday wear, ensuring that your engagement ring will withstand the test of time.
Comparing Rubies: Burmese vs. Mozambique
When selecting a ruby, buyers often encounter two primary sources: Burmese and Mozambique rubies. Burmese rubies are traditionally regarded as the finest due to their deep red colour and historical significance. They often exhibit a rich hue known as "pigeon's blood," which is highly sought after. Mozambique rubies, while also beautiful, can vary in colour and quality. They are generally more affordable than their Burmese counterparts, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers. Understanding the differences between these sources can help you make an informed decision.
The 4 Cs of Rubies
When choosing a ruby engagement ring, it's essential to consider the 4 Cs: colour, cut, clarity, and carat weight.
Ruby Colour: Rubies go from pinkish red, to purplish red, to orangish red, and an unmodified ruby red as well. There are even star rubies. The most critical factor in determining a ruby's value is its colour. The ideal ruby displays a vivid, unmodified red hue. Look for stones that exhibit a deep red colour with minimal brown or purple undertones.
Ruby Cut: The cut of a ruby affects its brilliance and overall appearance. A well-cut ruby will reflect light beautifully, enhancing its colour and sparkle. Common cuts include oval, cushion, and round, each offering a unique look.
Ruby Clarity: Rubies often contain inclusions, which are natural characteristics of the stone. While some inclusions can enhance a ruby's character, fewer visible inclusions generally indicate a higher quality stone. It's essential to choose a ruby with acceptable clarity for your preferences.
Carat Weight: Larger rubies are rarer and can be significantly more expensive. Rubies do not typically grow over a carat. This is because the element that causes the red colour, chromium, is relatively rare. Rubies also form shallow, tabular rough, restricting cutters from faceting large rubies. This makes anything over a carat exceptionally rare. When selecting a ruby, consider both size and quality to find the perfect balance for your engagement ring.
Heat Treatment vs. Untreated Rubies
While the exact percentage will fluctuate, over 95% or even 97% of all mined material gets treated (most common one being heat-treatment). Most rubies on the market today have undergone heat treatment to enhance their colour and clarity. This process is widely accepted in the industry and is considered standard practice. However, untreated rubies are rarer and can command higher prices because of how rare it is to find a stone with the same properties straight out of the ground. When purchasing a ruby, inquire about any treatments and seek certification to understand the stone's quality fully.
Conclusion
Ruby engagement rings are a stunning and meaningful option for couples looking to express their love and commitment. With their rich history, vibrant colour, and durability, rubies stand out as a unique alternative to traditional diamond rings.
Begin Your Unique Ring Journey with H. Sena
Empowering Your Selection: At H. Sena, our commitment to authenticity, craftsmanship, and personalised service sets us apart.
Dazzling Diamonds and Gemstones: Choose from our exquisite collection of natural diamonds—white, yellow, and pink—as well as untreated coloured gemstones like Burmese and Sri Lankan sapphires, Burmese and Mozambique rubies, and Colombian emeralds, all expertly sourced.
Custom Craftsmanship: Bring your vision to life with our bespoke services. Our skilled Singaporean craftsmen create stunning, one-of-a-kind rings that reflect your love story.
Transparent Value: Enjoy fair pricing with our direct supplier relationships, eliminating unnecessary mark-ups.
Ready to Start? Connect with H. Sena Today! Let our team guide you in selecting or creating your dream ring—crafted with passion and precision.If you’re ready to explore the world of ruby engagement rings, our team is here to assist you in finding the ideal piece that reflects your unique love story.
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