Rubies are the red variety of corundum colored by chromium, with top-tier untreated stones from Myanmar (Burma) commanding higher per-carat prices than equivalent diamonds.
1. Pigeon's Blood & Origin Distinction
- Burmese Pigeon's Blood (Mogok): Marble-hosted deposits with low iron content allow intense ultraviolet red fluorescence, creating an internal glowing fire.
- Mozambique (Montepuez): Modern source of exceptional clarity and rich crimson color, with higher iron content muting fluorescent glow under sunlight.
- Lead-Glass Filled Rubies: Low-grade corundum heavily infused with high-refractive glass; highly fragile and vulnerable to household acids (lemon juice, vinegar).