Gemstones have captivated humanity for centuries, not just for their beauty but also for their symbolism and rarity. Among these, ruby and rubellite stand out, often admired and sometimes confused with one another. While both gems possess striking red hues, they are distinct in terms of composition, origin, and value. This video delves into the differences between ruby and rubellite, exploring their unique characteristics, how they are formed, and what sets them apart in the world of gemstones.
What is a Ruby?
Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, which is composed primarily of aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃). The vibrant red color that defines a ruby is primarily due to the presence of chromium within the mineral structure. When chromium replaces some of the aluminum atoms in corundum, it causes the crystal to absorb green and violet light, resulting in the deep red color that rubies are known for. The intensity of the red can vary, with some rubies exhibiting a deep, blood-red color known as "pigeon's blood," which is particularly prized in the gemstone market.
Rubies are formed under extreme conditions, deep within the Earth's crust, where high temperatures and pressures cause minerals to crystallize over millions of years. These conditions are typically found in metamorphic rocks like marble or in igneous rocks such as basalt. The most famous ruby deposits are found in Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.
Rubies have held a place of significance in various cultures throughout history. In ancient India, they were known as "ratnaraj," or the "king of precious stones," and were believed to protect their wearer from harm. In medieval Europe, rubies were thought to guarantee health, wealth, and wisdom. Even today, rubies are a popular choice for engagement rings and are considered symbols of love and passion.
What is a Rubellite?
Rubellite is a member of the tourmaline family, which is a complex borosilicate mineral with varying amounts of elements such as aluminum, iron, magnesium, sodium, lithium, or potassium. Unlike ruby, which gets its color from chromium, rubellite’s red to pink hues are typically due to the presence of manganese within the crystal structure. Tourmalines, including rubellite, form in pegmatite veins, which are coarse-grained igneous rocks with large crystals that develop in the later stages of a magma's crystallization.
Rubellite is found in a variety of locations around the world, with significant deposits in Brazil, Nigeria, Mozambique, and Afghanistan. The color of rubellite can range from soft pink to deep red, often with a slight purplish or brownish tint. The best rubellites are those that exhibit a vivid, saturated color without too much brown or gray.
A key point: in some countries, laboratories and market participants, meaning gemstone sellers, classify all pink variations of tourmaline as rubellites. In Bangkok, for example, only bright pink, almost red color tourmalines are considered rubellites. For instance, a light pink tourmaline will be labeled as a pink tourmaline, not a rubellite, on the certificate. So, if it's important for you to acquire a rubellite specifically, please keep this in mind.
Unique Optical Properties
One of the fascinating aspects of rubellite is its pleochroism, which means that it can show different colors when viewed from different angles. This property is due to the way the crystal structure interacts with light. For example, a rubellite may appear more pinkish when viewed from one angle and more reddish from another. This optical characteristic adds to the gemstone's allure and makes it a favorite among gem collectors.
Differences Between Ruby and Rubellite
Color and Appearance
At first glance, rubies and rubellites may seem quite similar due to their red coloration. However, a closer examination reveals distinct differences. Ruby's red is often more intense and can sometimes show a purplish or bluish tint, especially in stones from Myanmar. In contrast, rubellite tends to have a broader color range, from pinkish-red to deep crimson, and often exhibits pleochroism, which is not seen in rubies.
Another difference lies in the transparency and clarity of these gemstones. Rubies, especially high-quality ones, are typically more transparent and may contain fewer inclusions than rubellites. Rubellite often has more inclusions, which can sometimes be visible to the naked eye, though these do not necessarily detract from its beauty or value.
Hardness and durability
When it comes to hardness, ruby is the clear winner. With a rating of 9 on the Mohs scale, ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, second only to diamond (which scores a 10). This makes ruby an excellent choice for jewelry that will be worn daily, such as rings or bracelets, as it can withstand scratches and wear.
Rubellite, on the other hand, is softer, with a Mohs hardness rating of 7 to 7.5. While this is still fairly durable, rubellite requires more care to avoid scratches, chips, and other damage. Jewelry made from rubellite is often recommended for occasional wear or for pieces like earrings or pendants, which are less likely to be subjected to rough handling.
Value and Rarity
Rubies are generally more valuable and sought after than rubellites, primarily due to their historical significance, durability, and rarity. High-quality rubies, particularly those with the coveted "pigeon's blood" color, can command prices higher than most other gemstones, sometimes reaching tens of thousands of dollars per carat.
Rubellites, while also prized, are typically less expensive than rubies. However, exceptionally fine rubellites with intense color and good clarity can still be quite valuable. The value of a rubellite can also be influenced by its size, with larger stones being rarer and thus more expensive.
Treatment and Enhancement
Both rubies and rubellites are often treated to enhance their color and clarity. The most common treatment for rubies is heat treatment, which can improve color and reduce the visibility of inclusions. Some rubies are also treated with lead glass filling to improve their appearance, though such treatments can significantly reduce the value of the stone.
Rubellites may also undergo heat treatment to enhance their color. In addition, rubellites are sometimes irradiated to achieve more vibrant hues, though this treatment is less common. As with rubies, treated rubellites are generally less valuable than untreated stones, especially among collectors who value natural beauty.
Market and Consumer Preferences
In the gemstone market, rubies are generally more popular and in higher demand than rubellites. This is partly due to ruby’s historical significance and its association with luxury and prestige. The deep red color of ruby is often seen as more "classic," while rubellite’s color variations and pleochroism give it a unique, contemporary appeal.
For consumers, the choice between ruby and rubellite often comes down to personal preference and budget. Those looking for a durable, investment-worthy gemstone might lean towards ruby, while those who appreciate the diverse colors and optical effects of rubellite may prefer it as a more affordable alternative.
Ruby and rubellite, while sharing a similar red hue, are distinct gemstones with unique characteristics. Ruby, with its intense color, historical significance, and superior hardness, remains one of the most prized gemstones in the world. Rubellite, on the other hand, offers a vibrant alternative with its range of colors and optical properties, appealing to those who appreciate its uniqueness and affordability.
Understanding the differences between these two gemstones allows buyers and collectors to make informed decisions, whether they are seeking a timeless piece of jewelry or a gemstone that reflects their individual style. I can’t say that one is better than the other. They are just different, and it's good to have both in the collection. Anyway, Whether you choose the fiery allure of a ruby or the vibrant charm of a rubellite, both stones offer beauty and elegance that can be cherished for a lifetime.