RubyNecklaces.com

Rubies are an incredibly durable gem, which makes them one of the timeless stones throughout history. The fact that is one of the most rare gemstones has brought it a special place in the hearts of millions around the world; in fact there are over two dozen royal households who use a ruby in their coat of arms, and many more still who have its unique colour somewhere on their crest.

Ruby is a variety of corundum, which is an exceptionally hard mineral (classed second hardest only to diamonds). Only red corundum is allowed to be referred to as "ruby", whilst any other stones with similar qualities but different colours are "sapphires". The difference lies in their creation millions of years ago, when chrome was mixed with aluminium oxide, as well as tiny amount of other minerals, and put under extreme pressure in the earth's mantle. It is extremely rare due to the small amount of aluminium oxide in the earth's mantle, and the percentage of truly exceptional rubies is minuscule.

In a strange twist of fate, it is chrome that makes for this lack of rubies, as well as giving them their characteristic red hue. Chrome was also responsible for creating fissures and cracks in the crystals, which is why rubies tend to come in very small sizes. Anything over 3 carats (just over 9mm in diameter) is very rare indeed, as is finding a perfect specimen.

On the subject of the perfect stone, many sellers will try to pass off any red stone as a ruby. Be sure to look out for the sparkle, which is a very distinctive characteristic, the true ruby red colour, and any stones that seem dull or too transparent. Be wary of rubies which you can see straight through, as these tend to be of poor quality. Rubies that reflect light inside them are the most common type, and will add some extra sparkle to your anyone's attire.

A special quality of some rubies makes them look as if they have a star buried deep within them, so be sure to look for a cut that highlights this sensational effect. This is what makes the ruby such a perfect specimen to put into a necklace, as it is easy to find an untreated uncut stone, rather than having to use that has been cut, which can leave marks and scratches if not done professionally. This is why it is essential to ensure that the ruby necklace that you are buying has been treated by a true ruby craftsman. 

The ruby stone has always been associated with love and passion, and handing your loved one a fake ruby necklace may not send the message that your carefully chosen gift was intended to make. Traditionally, rubies are associated with the celebration of a 40th wedding anniversary, and retailers across the United States say that a vast percentage of their sales of ruby necklaces, earrings and rings are bought to commemorate these long standing partnerships.

However, rubies are extremely versatile, and suit any formal occasion where the wearer wants to stand out and be noticed. Even the smallest stone, set in the right necklace, will catch the light of a candle or a chandelier and reflect its beauty around the room. So go on, why not spend three hundred dollars on the gift of a lifetime; a ruby necklace.