Rubies, with their rich and captivating red hues, have been treasured for centuries. However, distinguishing between genuine rubies and their imitations can be challenging. This comprehensive guide will help you identify authentic rubies by examining various aspects such as color, inclusions, hardness, heat sensitivity, and more
Color and Transparency
Genuine Rubies:
Natural rubies exhibit a deep, vivid red color, often referred to as "pigeon blood red." This hue is rich, intense, and evenly distributed throughout the gemstone. The color should be vibrant and free from any dullness, making the ruby visually striking. Natural rubies may also display a slight fluorescence, enhancing their appeal under natural and artificial light.
Fake Rubies:
Imitation rubies, such as those made from glass or synthetic materials, often have an unnatural color that can appear either too bright or too dark. These imitations may lack the depth and richness of genuine rubies. Additionally, the color in fake rubies might be uneven, exhibiting zoning or color bands that are not typically found in natural stones.
Inclusions and Flaws
Genuine Rubies:
Almost all natural rubies contain inclusions or imperfections. Common inclusions include needle-like structures called "silk," created by rutile mineral deposits. These inclusions can sometimes enhance the ruby's authenticity and are accepted as part of the stone's natural character. Other common inclusions are tiny crystals, fingerprints, or internal fractures. While these may affect clarity, they confirm the ruby's natural origin.
Fake Rubies:
Completely flawless rubies are rare and are likely to be synthetic or fake. Lab-created rubies often have a bubble-like appearance and lack the natural inclusions found in genuine stones. Under magnification, synthetic rubies might show curved striations or growth lines, a telltale sign of their artificial origin.
The Scratch Test
Genuine Rubies:
Rubies are extremely hard, rating 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. They can scratch most other materials but should not be scratched easily. This property makes them durable and suitable for everyday wear in jewelry. However, the scratch test should be performed with caution, as it can potentially damage the gemstone.
Fake Rubies:
Imitation rubies, such as those made from glass or other softer materials, can be scratched more easily. This test, while effective, should be used carefully and preferably by a professional to avoid damaging the stone or creating misleading results.
Heat Sensitivity
Genuine Rubies:
Natural rubies can withstand high temperatures and should not show changes when exposed to heat. This resistance to heat makes them suitable for various jewelry-making processes, including soldering and setting.
Fake Rubies:
Glass imitations or composite rubies may show signs of melting, cracking, or discoloration when exposed to heat. This is a critical indicator of their lower quality and artificial nature. However, this test should also be conducted by professionals to avoid unnecessary damage.
Use of a Magnifying Glass or Loupe
Genuine Rubies:
When viewed under magnification, genuine rubies will show natural inclusions, such as tiny gas bubbles and rutile needles. These inclusions are a result of natural formation processes and add to the ruby's uniqueness. The presence of these natural features confirms the stone's authenticity.
Fake Rubies:
Synthetic rubies often show curved striations (lines) and fewer natural inclusions. Glass imitations may have bubbles, swirls, and a smoother appearance. These characteristics can be easily identified with a magnifying glass or jeweler's loupe, distinguishing them from genuine rubies.
Weight and Density
Genuine Rubies:
Rubies are denser than most imitation materials. If you have two stones of the same size, the genuine ruby will feel heavier. This difference in weight and density is due to the unique composition of natural rubies.
Fake Rubies:
Imitation stones may feel lighter due to their lower density. This can be a helpful indicator when combined with other tests to determine the stone's authenticity.
Market Indicators
Price Comparison:
The price of rubies can also indicate authenticity. Genuine rubies, especially those with high clarity and vivid color, command high prices. If a ruby is offered at a significantly lower price than expected, it might be an imitation or synthetic stone. Always compare prices from reputable dealers to gauge the market value.
Source and Origin:
The origin of a ruby can significantly affect its value and authenticity. Rubies from renowned sources like Myanmar (Burma) are highly prized. Documentation of the ruby's origin can provide assurance of its authenticity.
Professional Certification
Genuine Rubies:
Purchasing rubies with certification from reputable gemological laboratories (such as GIA, AGS, or IGI) ensures authenticity and provides details about the stone's origin, treatments, and quality. Certified rubies come with a report that confirms their natural origin and any enhancements they may have undergone.
Fake Rubies:
Lack of certification or dubious documentation can be a red flag indicating the stone may not be genuine. Always ask for certification when buying high-value gemstones to ensure you are getting a genuine product.
Conclusion
Distinguishing genuine rubies from fake ones requires careful examination and understanding of various factors such as color, inclusions, hardness, and professional certification. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can confidently identify authentic rubies and avoid imitations. Whether you're purchasing rubies for investment, jewelry, or collection, ensuring their authenticity will enhance their value and enjoyment for years to come.
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