Physical Properties of Real Rubies
Real rubies are one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones on the market. They are known for their brilliant red color and their ability to shine even in low light conditions. However, not all rubies are created equal. Some may be synthetic or heavily treated, making it harder for the naked eye to distinguish them from a natural ruby. This is why it is important to understand the physical properties of a real ruby.
The first thing to look for when identifying a real ruby is its color. Natural rubies have a deep, rich red color with hints of blue undertones. The intensity of the red color is a good indicator of the quality of the ruby. The deeper the red, the more valuable the stone. Additionally, real rubies have a fluorescence effect that makes them appear to glow in sunlight or bright light conditions.
The second property to observe is the clarity of the gemstone. Natural rubies may have some inclusions or natural imperfections, but they should not be visible to the naked eye. If you can see any scratches, cracks, or bubbles inside the stone, it is likely not a real ruby.
The third property is the hardness of the stone. Real rubies are one of the hardest gemstones, with a score of 9 on the Mohs scale. They are very scratch-resistant and can hold up well to everyday wear and tear. If the surface of the ruby looks and feels too smooth or too dull, it may be a sign that the stone is not real.
The fourth property to consider is the weight and size of the stone. Natural rubies are typically heavier than synthetic ones of the same size. If you have a scale, you can weigh the stone and compare it to the weight of a real ruby of the same size to determine its authenticity.
Finally, it is important to note that sometimes, real rubies may be treated to enhance their color or clarity. This is a common practice in the gemstone industry but can make it harder to determine if the ruby is real. However, a reputable jeweler or gemologist will be able to identify any treatments by looking at the ruby under a microscope.
Look for Flaws
A real ruby often has natural inclusions and imperfections, making it appear less perfect than a fake one. These flaws can be visible to the naked eye or viewed under magnification. Take a close look at the surface of the gemstone to see if there are any tiny scratches or marks on it.
If you’re examining a loose ruby, be sure to hold it up to a light source, and look for any dark spots or discolorations. These could be signs of a natural inclusion. Additionally, real rubies may have small air bubbles trapped inside, which mimic the appearance of tiny raindrops within the stone.
Beware of synthetic rubies that are too flawless or have an overly perfect appearance. These man-made stones are created in a laboratory, which allows them to be made without any natural inclusions. However, some high-quality synthetic rubies do have natural-looking inclusions to make them appear more real. So, it’s important to take into account other factors in addition to examining for flaws.
A fake ruby, on the other hand, may appear too perfect in terms of its color and clarity. These stones are often made from materials that can mimic the look of a ruby, such as a red glass or a synthetic gemstone. These imitations can be difficult to identify, so it’s important to consider other factors, such as the price and the reputation of the seller, before making a purchase.
Pay Attention to Color
Rubies come in a range of colors, but the most valuable and sought-after hue is a deep, vibrant red. This is because rubies are made up of the mineral corundum, which contains the element chromium. The amount of chromium present in a ruby is what gives it its characteristic red color.
When trying to determine if a ruby is real, the color is one of the first things you should look at. Real rubies will have a deep red color that is almost identical to the color of a traffic light. If you notice a pinkish or purplish tinge to the stone, it’s most likely a fake or synthetic ruby. These stones are often made from glass, plastic, or other materials, and can be colored to resemble real rubies, but they never achieve the same intensity of color as a genuine stone.
If you’re having trouble determining the color of a ruby, try examining it in different lighting conditions. Real rubies should look deep red in natural sunlight, while fake ones may look dull or discolored. You can also use a jeweler’s loupe or magnifying glass to examine the ruby more closely. Real rubies will have a uniform color throughout the stone, while fake ones may have patches of color that are uneven or inconsistent.
Check for Weight and Hardness
If you’re looking to buy a ruby, it’s important to know how to tell if it’s real or fake. One way to do this is by checking its weight and hardness.
A real ruby is typically heavier than a fake ruby because of its mineral composition. In fact, a real ruby is one of the heaviest gemstones available. If you have a scale, you can compare the weight of the stone in question to the weight of a known real ruby of the same size. If the weight is significantly less than the real ruby, then it’s likely a fake.
Another way to check for the authenticity of a ruby is by testing its hardness. A real ruby is one of the hardest gemstones out there, scoring a 9 on the Mohs scale. A fake ruby, on the other hand, is usually much softer and therefore easier to scratch or chip. You can test the hardness by using a scratch test kit, which can be purchased at most jewelry stores. Simply scratch the stone in question with the tool provided and compare the scratch mark to those on a known real ruby. If the scratch on the stone in question is significantly easier to make or deeper than on a real ruby, then it’s likely a fake.
It’s important to note, however, that some fake rubies are made of materials that are harder and closer in weight to a real ruby, making it more difficult to tell the difference.
Overall, while checking for weight and hardness can be a useful tool in identifying real rubies, it’s important to have the stone authenticated by a professional before making a purchase. This will ensure that you’re getting the real deal and not a cheap imitation.
Use a Professional Appraisal
If you want to be certain that the ruby in your possession is real, have it appraised by a professional. A gemologist or a certified appraiser will have the necessary expertise and tools to determine the gem’s authenticity. They will examine the gem under a microscope and perform various tests to determine its chemical composition or identify any treatments or enhancements that may have been used to alter its appearance.
An appraisal will not only confirm the authenticity of the ruby, but it will also provide you with an estimate of its value, especially if it is a valuable gemstone. This information is important if you plan to sell or insure the stone. In addition, a professional appraiser can educate you about the ruby’s history, rarity, and physical characteristics, which will help you appreciate its true worth and beauty.
When selecting an appraiser, look for a reputable and certified professional with extensive experience in gemstone identification. They should be able to provide a written report of their findings and conclusions, including any identifying characteristics such as color, clarity, weight, and cut.
Keep in mind that professional appraisals can be expensive, with fees ranging anywhere from $50 to $500 or more, depending on the complexity of the job and the appraiser’s credentials. However, this cost is a small price to pay for the assurance and peace of mind that comes with knowing your ruby is genuine.
In conclusion, using a professional appraisal is the most reliable way to determine if a ruby is real. An expert appraisal will confirm the gem’s authenticity and provide you with valuable information about its value and unique characteristics. If you’re not sure about the authenticity of your ruby, a professional appraisal is definitely worth the investment.
