Color:
Typically red, sometimes with hints of brown, purple or pink; must meet certain hue and color saturation standards to be called a ruby and not a sapphire.
Gem family:
Corundum. Ruby is the red variety of corundum; all others are sapphires.
Birthstone:
July
History:
Ruby has held high value throughout recorded history. Ruby has long been associated with passion and desire, as well as with courage and power.
Use in jewelry:
Because of its beautiful red color and its long association with passion, desire and love, ruby is a natural fit as a romantic jewelry gift.
Mohs hardness:
9 (1 softest to 10 hardest)
Common treatments:
Heat treatment is commonly employed to intensify color and dissolve impurities. Ruby can also be diffusion treated to add color to the stone. All treatments must be disclosed.
Care:
Clean with mild soap and a soft cloth. Steam and ultrasonic cleaning is safe for untreated and most heat-treated ruby.
