While diamonds are a girl's best friend, coloured stones like rubies and emeralds are equally valuable and desired. These gemstones, which are two of the three main jewels, are known not only for their stunning colours but also for their rarity and durability.
What are the differences between rubies and emeralds?
Rubies are made from the same mineral type as sapphires and are instantly identified by their vivid red hue.
The inclusion of chromium within rubies gives them their characteristic hue.
Rubies have also been discovered in Thailand, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. However, Myanmar has long been the most well-known supplier.
Brilliant green emeralds, like aquamarine stones, belong to the beryl mineral family.
Emeralds, like rubies, get their colour from the presence of chromium.
Colombia produces the great majority of the world's emeralds, with some estimates putting the country's supply at 70-90 per cent of the global emerald market.
Egyptian emerald mines have a long history in emerald manufacturing, albeit they were abandoned after the superior Colombian emerald was discovered in the 16th century.
What criteria are used to evaluate rubies and emeralds?
Rubies and emeralds, like diamonds, are valued based on the Four Cs: cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight.
Both rubies and emeralds are cut to show off their brilliance and to make use of their irregular forms' natural shapes.
While rubies are typically cut in a cushion or oval shape, emeralds have the unique cut specifically named after them: the emerald cut!
One of the rubies' most appealing characteristics is their bright red colour.
What is the clarity of Ruby and Emerald?
Inclusions and defects frequently occur in rubies. Rubies have the same clarity grading system as diamonds: VVS, SI1, SI2, I1, I2, I3. VVS stands for “very, very slightly included,” SI for “slightly included,” and I for “clearly, conspicuously incorporated.”
High-grade emeralds have inclusions, which are minute amounts of gases, minerals, crystals, and liquids that form during the crystallisation process, similar to sapphires and rubies.
Conclusion
Although various factors, such as the Four C's, influence the values of rubies and emeralds, rubies often command a more excellent price per carat than emeralds. Both jewels have historically demanded high prices and are a source of intrigue for jewel connoisseurs worldwide. Visit Gem Selections for more information.
