Rubies have captivated human civilization for centuries with their stunning beauty and rich symbolism. Known as the king of gemstones, rubies are highly sought after for their vibrant red color, which represents love, passion, and power. However, not all rubies possess the same hue and intensity. The value of a ruby is determined by various factors, including color. In this article, we will explore the different colors of rubies and delve into what makes certain shades more valuable than others.
Understanding Ruby Colors
Rubies belong to the corundum mineral family, which also includes sapphires. While most people associate rubies with a deep red color, they can actually come in a range of hues, from pinkish-red to purplish-red. The color of a ruby is influenced by the presence of trace elements such as chromium and iron in its crystal structure. Chromium is responsible for the classic red color, while iron can create secondary tones like purple or brown.
The Spectrum of Ruby Colors
When it comes to evaluating the value of a ruby based on color, gem experts consider three primary factors: hue, saturation, and tone.
Hue: The hue refers to the dominant color of the ruby. The most prized hue for a ruby is a pure red, often referred to as “pigeon’s blood.” It is a vivid, intense red without any hints of other colors like purple or brown. Rubies that exhibit a slightly purplish or orangish undertone may still be desirable but usually command a lower price compared to those with a true red hue.
Saturation: Saturation refers to the intensity or purity of the color. Highly saturated rubies with strong red hues are considered more valuable than those with lighter or diluted colors. A deeply saturated ruby will appear more vibrant and captivating, capturing and reflecting light in a way that draws the eye.
Tone: Tone refers to how light or dark the ruby appears. It is determined by the amount of black or white present in the stone. Rubies with medium tones, neither too light nor too dark, are generally more desirable. Stones that are too light may appear washed-out, while overly dark rubies may lose their brilliance and vibrancy.
The Most Valuable Ruby Colors
While personal preferences can influence the perceived value of a ruby’s color, certain shades have historically commanded higher prices due to their rarity and aesthetic appeal. Here are some of the most valuable colors of rubies:
Pigeon’s Blood Red
As mentioned earlier, rubies with a true red hue, often referred to as pigeon’s blood red, are exceptionally rare and highly sought after. These gemstones exhibit a vivid, saturated red color without any undertones of purple or brown. Pigeon’s blood rubies are considered the pinnacle of quality and can command exorbitant prices in the market.
Burmese Ruby
Rubies from Burma (now Myanmar) have long been celebrated for their exceptional color. Burmese rubies often display a rich, intense red hue with a slight bluish undertone. This unique combination of color attributes contributes to their allure and high value.
Ruby Red
Rubies with a vibrant, pure red color are also highly prized. These gemstones possess a lively, fiery appearance that captures attention. While they may not reach the level of a pigeon’s blood ruby, they still command significant value due to their intense saturation and pleasing hue.
Pinkish-Red Ruby
Rubies with a pinkish-red hue are sometimes referred to as “pink rubies” and can be particularly appealing to those who prefer a softer, more feminine color palette. Pinkish-red rubies can exhibit a delicate balance between red and pink tones, creating a charming and romantic gemstone.
Padparadscha Ruby
Padparadscha is a unique and highly sought-after color variety within the ruby family. These rare gemstones display a delicate blend of pink and orange hues, reminiscent of a tropical sunset. Padparadscha rubies are exceptionally rare and can command top prices due to their scarcity and exquisite beauty.
Factors Affecting Ruby Color Value
Aside from hue, saturation, and tone, there are additional factors that can influence the value of a ruby’s color:
Clarity: The presence of inclusions or flaws within a ruby can impact its color appearance. Inclusions may affect the gemstone’s transparency and hinder the reflection of light, thereby diminishing the overall color brilliance.
Size: Larger rubies tend to have a more pronounced color presence due to their increased surface area. This can make them more visually appealing and potentially more valuable compared to smaller gems of the same color quality.
Origin: The geographical origin of a ruby can also play a role in determining its value. Gem experts often associate certain regions with exceptional ruby colors and qualities. For example, Burmese rubies have long been renowned for their intense red hues, while rubies from other locations may exhibit variations in color and tone.
Treatment: The treatment or enhancement of rubies can impact their color value. While heat treatment is a common practice to enhance the color and clarity of rubies, other treatments like dyeing or filling fractures can significantly diminish their value. Natural, untreated rubies are generally considered more valuable because they exhibit their true, unaltered color.
Market Demand: The current market demand for particular ruby colors can also influence their value. Trends and preferences among buyers can shift over time, leading to fluctuations in the desirability and pricing of certain hues. It’s essential to consider both the intrinsic qualities of the ruby’s color and its appeal in the market.
Conclusion
In the world of gemstones, the color of a ruby plays a crucial role in determining its value. While a true red hue without any undertones of purple or brown, known as pigeon’s blood red, is considered the most valuable, other shades such as Burmese red, vibrant ruby red, pinkish-red, and padparadscha hold their own appeal. Factors like saturation, tone, clarity, size, origin, and treatment also contribute to a ruby’s overall color value.
When purchasing a ruby, it’s important to consider personal preferences, budget, and the specific characteristics of the stone. Consulting with reputable gemologists or jewelers who specialize in colored gemstones can provide valuable insights and guidance in selecting a ruby with the desired color and quality. Whether one chooses a rare pigeon’s blood red ruby or an exquisite pinkish-red gem, the allure of this regal gemstone will continue to captivate hearts for generations to come.
