The ruby, with its mesmerizing crimson hue, has captivated civilizations for centuries. Its rarity, beauty, and association with love and passion make it a highly desirable gemstone. However, the market is flooded with synthetic and imitation rubies, making it challenging to distinguish real rubies from the imposters. In this article, we will delve into the world of rubies and explore various methods to determine the authenticity of a ruby stone.
1. Understanding the Properties of Ruby
Before embarking on the quest to identify a real ruby, it’s essential to comprehend the unique properties of this precious gem. Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, and its vibrant red color is attributed to the presence of chromium. The finest rubies exhibit a deep red hue with a hint of blue, while lower-quality stones may appear more pink or purplish.
2. Look for Imperfections: Inclusions and Flaws
One of the key indicators of a genuine ruby is the presence of natural inclusions and flaws. Most natural rubies contain internal characteristics like tiny crystals, mineral deposits, or rutile needles. These imperfections, known as inclusions, create a unique fingerprint for each gem and add to its allure. Synthetic or lab-created rubies, on the other hand, are typically flawless or contain few to no inclusions.
Using a jeweler’s loupe or a magnifying glass, examine the ruby closely for any internal features. If you observe any signs of inclusions, such as tiny red, black, or white specks, it suggests that the ruby is more likely to be natural.
3. Assessing the Color
Color is a crucial factor in determining a ruby’s authenticity. A genuine ruby should display a rich, intense red color. The most sought-after rubies exhibit a vivid red hue often referred to as “pigeon’s blood” red. This term is used to describe a particular shade of red that is highly valued in rubies.
Be cautious of rubies that appear too light or too dark, as they may indicate synthetic or lower-quality stones. Additionally, avoid rubies with color zoning – uneven distribution of color across the gem – as this is a common characteristic of synthetic rubies.
4. Checking the Refractive Index
The refractive index is a critical optical property used to distinguish real rubies from imitations. When light enters a ruby, it bends, and the degree to which it bends (refracts) can provide valuable insights into the gem’s authenticity.
You can perform a simple refractive index test using a refractometer. Natural rubies typically have a refractive index between 1.76 and 1.78. Lab-created rubies may have a slightly different refractive index, often falling outside this range.
5. Conducting the Scratch Test
The scratch test is an age-old method to differentiate real rubies from imitations. However, it’s essential to use this test with caution, as it can potentially damage the gemstone. Before proceeding, ensure that you have permission to conduct this test on the ruby.
To perform the scratch test, select an inconspicuous spot on the ruby and gently scratch it with a piece of hard material, such as a steel file. If the ruby remains unscathed or only shows minimal surface scratches, it is likely a real ruby. Synthetic rubies, being less durable, may scratch more easily.
6. Testing with UV Light
Certain types of rubies display unique fluorescence when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. Natural rubies often exhibit a red fluorescence, while synthetic rubies may appear different colors or not fluoresce at all.
To perform the UV light test, use a UV flashlight or a jeweler’s UV lamp to illuminate the ruby in a darkened room. If the ruby exhibits a red glow or red fluorescence, it suggests that it is more likely to be natural.
7. Examining the Cut and Shape
The cut and shape of a ruby can also provide clues about its authenticity. Natural rubies are typically cut into standard shapes like ovals, rounds, or cushions. While fancy cuts are possible, excessively precise cuts or calibrated shapes may indicate that the ruby is synthetic.
Inspect the facets and edges of the ruby for signs of artificial manufacturing, such as overly sharp corners or unusual cutting patterns. Natural rubies may display slight irregularities in their cut due to the presence of inclusions.
8. Seek Professional Authentication
When in doubt, seek the expertise of a professional gemologist or a reputable jeweler. Gemologists are trained to identify and authenticate gemstones accurately. They have access to advanced gemological equipment, such as spectroscopes and refractometers, which can provide precise readings to determine a ruby’s authenticity.
If you are considering a significant investment in a ruby stone or if the gemstone holds sentimental value, it is worth the expense of getting a professional evaluation. Reputable jewelers will provide certificates of authenticity or gemological reports from recognized gemological laboratories for higher-value rubies.
9. Avoiding Common Pitfalls
While determining the authenticity of a ruby is essential, it is equally important to avoid falling for common pitfalls that can lead to purchasing an imitation or synthetic ruby:
Price: Be wary of rubies being sold at unusually low prices. Genuine rubies of high quality are rare and valuable, so if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Misleading Marketing: Some sellers may use misleading terms like “lab-grown,” “lab-created,” or “synthetic” to describe their rubies. While lab-created rubies are real rubies, they are not natural and have a different value.
Heating Treatment: Heat treatment is a common practice to enhance the color and clarity of rubies. While heat-treated rubies are still considered genuine, they may not command the same price as untreated stones.
Conclusion
Distinguishing real rubies from imitations requires a keen eye and some basic knowledge about the unique characteristics of this exquisite gemstone. By examining the presence of inclusions, assessing the color, conducting the refractive index test, and seeking professional authentication, you can confidently determine the authenticity of a ruby stone. Remember to exercise caution and avoid common pitfalls in the marketplace to ensure that your ruby jewelry collection comprises genuine and precious gemstones that will enchant you for generations to come.
