A ruby is a precious stone whereas the rubellite is a rare, multi-faceted gemstone. Rubellites come in a variety of shades, varying from a tender pink color to crimson red and ambivalent purple. But, rubies only offer deep red tones. Although rubellites are rarer, rubies make it to the list of the most valuable gemstones on earth.
Here we share the major differences between the two stones.
Value
Rubies, also known as the ‘King of Gems’, are the best known of the three precious gemstones – rubies, emeralds and sapphires. They are highly priced stones and also a premier choice of jewelers across the globe. Due to the heavy prices of rubies, some jewelers choose rubellites (semi- precious gemstones) to cut costs for large-scale designs.
Technicalities of the two stones – structure and intensity
Rubies are a corundum with an intense red glow that is caused by its chromium content. Rubies in the deep red shades are considered the best. Rubies have a much higher density and a richer red undertone than the rubellites. Also, they have a brilliant shine.
Rubellites are a type of tourmaline stones that are pink to red in color with pinches of purple. A high-quality rubellite must not change shades in different types of light. Another structural quality of a rubellite is that it is pyroelectric, which means that it gets electrically charged upon heating.
Region
The Burmese rubies were first given the name of ‘King of Precious Stones’ or the ‘First one of all Precious Stones. The majority of ruby deposits are found in Asia in countries including Myanmar, Thailand, India, Pakistan and Nepal. The rubellites are mainly found in Brazil, Madagascar, Mozambique, Nigeria and Pakistan.
The Mohs scale of hardness
On the Mohs scale of hardness, the ruby gets a 9, second only to the diamond. Rubellites, like all tourmalines, have a hardness of 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale.
Healing property
Rubies are powerful stones that act as a shield against negative energies and psychic attacks. They strengthen courage, joy and leadership qualities. The Burmese ruby was believed to protect knights in the war whereas the Blood Pigeon ruby is associated with passion, victory and love.
Rubellites, also known as the red tourmalines, can attract wealth and love into your life. They stimulate the heart and can bring emotional balance to your life. These stones can help you overcome all your worries and the things that scare you.
The KGK Group brings you an exceptional range of precious and semi-precious gemstones, including both rubies and the rubellites. You will be astonished by the high quality of KGK stones, our excellent customer services and an outstanding overall value.