The ruby is one of the most revered gems in the world, known for its stunning red color, exceptional hardness and timeless charm. A variety of the mineral corundum, rubies have been prized in various cultures for centuries. This blog looks at the different types of rubies, their global origin and the factors that contribute to their lasting value.
Table: Types of Ruby Gemstones
| Ruby Type | Origin | Color Range |
| Burmese Ruby | Myanmar (Burma) | Pigeon Blood Red |
| Thai Ruby | Thailand | Dark Red, Brownish Red |
| Mozambique Ruby | Mozambique | Bright Red |
| Afghan Ruby | Afghanistan | Purplish Red |
| Tanzanian Ruby | Tanzania | Pinkish Red |
| Sri Lankan Ruby | Sri Lanka | Light Red, Pinkish Red |
| Indian Ruby | India | Brownish Red |
| Kenyan Ruby | Kenya | Dark Red |
| Madagascar Ruby | Madagascar | Pinkish Red, Orangish Red |
| Pakistani Ruby | Pakistan | Pinkish Red to Deep Red |
Description of Rubies Types
Burmese Ruby
Burmese rubies, originally from Myanmar, are famous for their “pigeon blood” red color. These rubies are mainly mined in the Mogok and Mong Hsu Valleys, with a history dating back to ancient times. Burmese rubies are among the most sought after gems in the world, known for their exceptional clarity and intense color.
Thai Ruby
Rubies from Thailand, especially those from the Chanthaburi and Trat regions, are known for their darker tones, ranging from deep red to brownish red. Mined on a large scale in the early 20th century, Thai rubies became popular due to their affordability and availability.
Mozambique Ruby
Mozambique has become a major source of rubies since 2009, with the Montepuez mine producing some of the most vivid red rubies in recent years. The bright red color of Mozambique rubies makes them highly sought after in the gem market.
Afghan Ruby
Afghan rubies come mainly from the Jegdalek mines, known for their purple-red hue. Discovered in the 1970s, these rubies are appreciated for their unique color and the difficult terrain from which they were mined.
Tanzanian Ruby
Tanzania is home to distinctive red rubies, mined in the Winza and Longido regions since the 1960s, Tanzanian rubies are prized for their subtle hue, offering a softer alternative to the deep reds of others steal.
Sri Lankan Ruby
Rubies from Sri Lanka or Ceylon are known for their light red to pink colors. The Ratnapura region, rich in gem deposits, has been an important source of rubies since ancient times. Sri Lankan rubies are prized for their lighter hues and excellent clarity.
Indian Ruby
Rubies from India, especially those from Orissa and Mysore, are usually reddish brown in color. These rubies have been known since ancient times and are often used in traditional Indian jewelry. Although not as dazzling as other types of rubies, Indian rubies have historical and cultural significance.
Kenyan Ruby
Kenya’s ruby deposits, located in the Mangare region, are known for their intense red color. Discovered in the 1970s, Kenyan rubies are known for their intense color and are increasingly popular in the gemstone market.
Madagascar Ruby
Madagascar, and especially the regions of Ilakaka and Andilamena, produces rubies that range in color from pink-red to orange-red. These rubies were discovered in the 1990s and have become an important resource, offering a wide variety of colors and qualities.
Pakistani Ruby
Pakistan is home to significant ruby deposits, particularly in the Hunza and Swat valleys, in the Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa regions. The color of Pakistani rubies varies from pinkish red to dark red. The Hunza Valley, known for the production of high-quality rubies, has been a source of these precious stones since ancient times. The Swat Valley also contributes to Pakistan’s reputation as a major gem producing region, with rubies rivaling those from other parts of the world.
History and Significance of Ruby
Rubies have played an essential role in the history and culture of many civilizations. The word “ruby” comes from the Latin “ruber”, which means red. Throughout history, rubies have symbolized power, passion and protection. They were used in royal jewelry, religious objects, and as talismans for warriors and kings.
Burmese rubies, in particular, have a long and rich history, often appearing in the crowns and jewels of European royalty. The Mogok Valley in Myanmar, where these rubies come from, has been known for centuries for the production of the most beautiful rubies. Other regions, such as Thailand and Sri Lanka, have also contributed significantly to the global rubies market.
Pakistan’s rubies deposits, although less known than those in Myanmar or Sri Lanka, have attracted attention for their quality and the rich history associated with their mining. The rugged terrain of the Hunza and Swat valleys add to the mystique and value of these rubies, making them a prized possession for gem collectors.
The value of rubies is determined by many factors, including color, clarity, and size and carat weight. The most valuable rubies have an intense, deep red color, often called “dove’s blood.” Its rarity, combined with its hardness, second only to diamonds, makes it one of the most valuable gems in the world.
Conclusion
Rubies, with their vivid red hues and rich history, continue to fascinate gem lovers and collectors around the world. From the ancient mines of Myanmar to the remote valleys of Pakistan, rubies are more than beautiful stones: they are symbols of passion, power and history. Understanding the different types of rubies and their origins allows us to appreciate the diversity and beauty of these magnificent gemstones.
Whether it’s the deep red Burmese rubies, the vivid Mozambique rubies, or the rare Pakistani rubies, each type tells a unique story of Earth’s natural wonders. These gems have transcended time and culture, making them a true treasure in the world of gems.
