The expertise and sale of a high-quality ruby, especially if untreated and unheated, often requires a detailed laboratory analysis, which we can offer. This analysis helps determine the origin of your ruby, ensuring it is sold at the best possible price.

Ruby: One of the "Big Four" Gemstones

Ruby is part of the "Big Four" precious stones, alongside diamonds, sapphires, and emeralds. It belongs to the corundum family, just like sapphires, and is characterized by its red color. The term "ruby" comes from the Latin ruber or rubeus, meaning "red." In Sanskrit, it is called ratnaraj, meaning "queen of gems." Ruby deposits are rarer than sapphire deposits, primarily found in South Asia, as well as in Tanzania and Mozambique.

The Most Coveted Origin: Burmese Rubies

Burmese rubies are renowned for their quality. The most sought-after rubies have a rare color, known as "pigeon’s blood", a deep red with a slight blue hue. The largest deposit is located in the Mogok region in northeastern Myanmar (Burma). Ruby mining there began in the 18th century and has since remained artisanal, with both primary and secondary alluvial deposits.

The Rarest of Precious Stones

Raw rubies often have uneven coloration, with some parts more included than others. The skill of the cutter lies in selecting the best area of the rough stone to facet, taking these disparities into account. Unlike diamonds, there is no ideal cut for a ruby—each stone is unique. Oval and cushion cuts often best showcase these characteristics.

Rubies typically have many inclusions, making clarity the most important price factor. Extremely pure rubies are incredibly rare, fetching very high prices. Inclusions should not prevent light from passing through the stone. Small internal features, such as subtle clouds or tiny crystals hidden within, do not necessarily diminish a ruby's brilliance.

Ruby is considered the rarest of the precious stones, as pure and richly colored specimens are few in number on the market. Only a small percentage of rubies are of gem quality, suitable for jewelry.

Our Expertise in Gemstones and Jewelry

Our specialists are available to evaluate your precious and semi-precious stones, as well as your jewelry: bracelets, rings, necklaces, vintage creations, or signed pieces set with diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and fine pearls. We offer free and confidential estimates by appointment.

Our team can travel throughout France and visit our various representative offices.

Feel free to contact us to discuss the purchase or sale of a jewelry piece.