Recognizing a Real Ruby
It’s hard to compete with the beauty of a red ruby ring. The color is a timeless staple of the fashion industry. Due to their rarity, natural rubies are among the most valuable colored gemstones. If you are as invested in your gemstones as we are, it’s important to learn how to spot a real ruby. The only way to know conclusively is to take your jewelry to a reputable gemologist, but there are several simple tests you can do at home to give you a good idea if it’s real or not.
Natural vs. Synthetic vs. Imitation
Rubies fall into three categories—natural, synthetic, and imitation.
Natural rubies are formed by geological processes over millions of years, meaning they must be mined from the earth. Their intrinsic rarity makes natural ruby stones the most sought after and most valuable of the three classes.
Synthetic or lab-made rubies are chemically, optically, and structurally identical to natural rubies. However, they are created under controlled laboratory conditions. Because they form in a matter of months, not millions of years, synthetic rubies are less valuable than natural rubies. These are an ethical, sustainable, and cost-effective alternative.
Imitation rubies are what you really want to avoid. These look-alike stones are less durable and far less valuable than natural or synthetic rubies. Often made of red-colored glass or ruby composite, imitation rubies are only good for costume jewelry.
How to Tell if a Ruby is Real
Here are five ways to check for genuine ruby jewelry:
- Look for flaws: Synthetic rubies usually lack inclusions, or interior imperfections, because they are made using a recipe. Examine your ruby with a jeweler’s loupe, and if it appears flawless, it’s probably synthetic.
- Do the scratch test: If you don’t mind risking damage to the stone, try scratching it with a key or coin. You know the ruby is fake if a mark is left behind.
- Do the rub test: Drag the gem across a smooth, hard surface, such as a mirror. If a streak of red appears, you have an imitation ruby on your hands.
- Consider the size: It’s extremely difficult to find large natural rubies. If you see one for sale for less than a small fortune, there’s a good chance it’s a synthetic or imitation ruby.
- Take your ruby jewelry to a gemologist: If you’re still not sure if your ruby is real, ask a certified gemologist to examine the stone for you.
The next time you’re shopping for a real ruby ring, check out the selection at DazzleMe.com. We only deal in upscale consignment jewelry pieces, all of which are professionally examined and priced by our experienced in-store jewelers. You can even ask a jeweler directly about the ruby engagement ring or other pieces that catch your eye. We’re your exclusive destination for treasures designed to delight, so start shopping today!
