Quality & Variations of Ruby

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Note:
To truly appreciate the distinctions between Old and New Burma rubies, one must first grasp what constitutes a Burma ruby stone or Burma manik. The term “Burma ruby” itself refers to rubies that are extracted from the mines of Burma, now known as Myanmar. “Old Burma” and “New Burma” are simply colloquial and commonly-used terms to refer to 2 different varieties of rubies. In general, “old” Burma rubies refer strictly to the rubies mined from Myanmar itself, whereas “new” Burma rubies refer to glass-filled rubies that originate in Thailand or Africa.

Old Burma rubies, known for their deep crimson color often described as “pigeon blood red,” are highly prized gemstones. Their origin in Burma, now Myanmar, adds to their value. These rubies are revered globally for their exceptional color and rarity, making them some of the most sought-after gemstones.

New Burma rubies, a term often used colloquially in the trade, refer to rubies from regions like Africa and Thailand. These rubies are typically of lower quality and are treated with lead-glass to enhance their appearance. While this treatment can improve their color and luster, it reduces their structural integrity, astrological significance, and overall value.

Indian Ruby, Good-quality transparent rubies come from the Karur region, though color varies along this gemstone belt. The mines situated in Karur are located on barren land along the roadside; the nearby towns of Kangayam and Paramatti also have ruby mines. As the name implies, these rubies come from India. Many of the best-quality rubies from this source have a pinkish-red appearance, and very little material can be faceted. It is often opaque instead of transparent like glass, and polished in a rounded, cabochon shape or carved.

The ruby material from the Karur mines of India can be transparent and facet-quality. Most of the rubies are also known to be opaque.

African rubies, typically purplish to dark red, vary in quality from opaque to translucent to transparent. They are often cabochon-cut due to their high inclusion levels. Heat treatments are common, especially for rubies from Madagascar, Tanzania, and Kenya, to enhance color and transparency. Tanzanian rubies, for example, range from deep red to dark pinkish-red, while Mozambique rubies tend to have a brownish-red hue. Madagascar is another significant source of rubies, producing pinkish stones suitable for faceting.