Corundum
Ruby
HindiManikAlsoManikya
✦One of the Navratna, traditionally associated with Sun (Surya)
Red corundum, the same mineral as sapphire. Chromium gives it both its red and a natural fluorescence that can make the finest rubies seem to glow.
- Mineral
- Corundum, aluminium oxide
- Colour from
- Chromium
- Hardness
- 9 on the Mohs scale
- Known sources
- Myanmar, Mozambique, Thailand, Sri Lanka
What to look for
- A pure red to slightly purplish red, bright rather than brownish
- Colour that stays strong away from direct light
- Heating is common; glass filling must always be disclosed
CareDurable. Clean with warm, soapy water; avoid ultrasonic cleaning for filled stones.
General guidance about the stone. Each actual stone is described individually, with its own photographs and any laboratory report, when you enquire.
Ruby, to wear.
Ask whether a ring, pendant, stud earrings or a bracelet with ruby is available, in gold, platinum or silver.