Raw Ruby Stone : Rubies are some of the most sought-after gemstones in the world. Known for their brilliant red color and durability, they hold a special place in the luxury jewelry market, especially in the UAE. While we are familiar with rubies in their polished form, many might not be aware of what a raw ruby looks like before it’s cut and polished into the stunning gemstone we recognize. In this post, we’ll explore what raw rubies look like before they undergo the transformation and discuss their significance in the UAE market, along with some frequently asked questions.

What is a Raw Ruby Stone?

Rubies are a type of corundum, a mineral made up of aluminum oxide. The rich red color comes from trace amounts of chromium present in the stone. Rubies are considered one of the four precious gemstones, alongside diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires. Their color and strength make them one of the most desirable gems in the world.

In the UAE, rubies are highly valued in fine jewelry, often seen in engagement rings, necklaces, and high-end watches. Their red hue symbolizes love and vitality, making them especially popular in gift-giving and luxury markets.

The Natural Appearance of a Raw Ruby Stone

Raw rubies, also known as rough rubies, are quite different from the polished stones we are accustomed to seeing in jewelry stores. When first mined, rubies can look dull, cloudy, and uneven, with many imperfections. Let’s take a closer look at what raw rubies typically look like.

1. Color:

Raw rubies can appear much duller compared to their polished counterparts. The color can range from light pinkish-red to a more brownish or purplish hue. This is often due to the rough outer layer that conceals the stone’s true brilliance. When a ruby is mined in the UAE or neighboring regions like Sri Lanka and Myanmar, the raw ruby’s color may not immediately show the deep red for which rubies are known.

2. Shape and Size:

Raw rubies are not neatly cut into the round, oval, or cushion shapes you see in finished gemstones. Instead, they often have irregular shapes with jagged or rough surfaces. The size of raw rubies can vary, with some stones being large enough to yield multiple cut gems, while others may be too small or flawed for cutting into valuable jewelry pieces.

3. Surface Texture:

A raw ruby’s surface is often rough and uneven, with visible inclusions or natural imperfections. These inclusions are trapped minerals or gas bubbles that formed inside the ruby during its creation deep within the Earth. Some raw rubies may also have a layer of dirt or surrounding minerals that obscure the true appearance of the gemstone.

4. Transparency:

Unlike polished rubies that are transparent and allow light to pass through, raw rubies are often opaque or cloudy. The inner structure of the stone is not yet exposed, which causes it to appear darker or less vibrant until the stone is shaped and polished.

5. Surface Coatings:

Many raw rubies have a coating from surrounding minerals. This crust, often made of calcite or other rocks, hides the gem’s natural color and beauty. This layer must be carefully removed during the cutting and polishing process to reveal the ruby beneath.

The Cutting and Polishing Process of Rubies in the UAE

The transformation of raw rubies into polished gemstones requires great skill. In the UAE, where rubies are often used in high-end jewelry, the process is intricate and detailed to ensure that the final stone is of the highest quality.

1. Examination and Selection:

When a rough ruby is mined, it’s carefully examined for its potential. Factors like color, clarity, and size are assessed to determine whether it’s worth cutting. Only the finest rough rubies make it to the cutting stage. In the UAE, rubies sourced from Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and other regions are highly valued for their rich color and clarity.

2. Cleaving and Sawing:

The rough ruby is then split or cleaved along its natural crystal lines. This process reduces the stone’s size and gives it the necessary shape for cutting. Depending on the size and shape of the rough ruby, the gem cutter may use specialized saws to split the stone into smaller pieces.

3. Shaping and Faceting:

Once the ruby has been cleaved, it is shaped into its desired form, such as an oval, round, or cushion cut. This is done using precise tools to create facets on the surface. Faceting is essential because it allows the ruby to reflect light and display its full brilliance and color. The final shape maximizes the ruby’s potential, enhancing its visual appeal.

4. Polishing:

The last step in the process is polishing. Polishing removes any imperfections and smooths the ruby’s surface to a glossy shine. It is this step that brings out the deep red color and clarity of the gemstone. After the polishing process, the ruby is ready to be set into luxury jewelry pieces, often seen in the UAE’s high-end stores.

The Importance of Rubies in the UAE Market

The UAE is renowned for its luxury jewelry market, and rubies are an essential part of it. The demand for rubies, particularly those with vibrant red hues, is significant in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where high-end jewelry is a popular commodity. Rubies symbolize love and passion, which makes them especially favored for engagement rings and anniversary gifts.

The UAE’s proximity to some of the world’s most notable ruby mines, including Sri Lanka and Myanmar, makes it a prime location for sourcing high-quality rubies. Many UAE-based jewelers work with some of the finest rubies available to create stunning custom pieces for their clients.

Key reasons why rubies are highly valued in the UAE include:

• Symbol of Luxury and Prestige: Rubies are often used in high-end jewelry, which is a staple in the UAE’s luxury market.
• Love and Passion: Rubies are seen as a symbol of love and vitality, which makes them a popular choice for engagement rings and romantic gifts.
• Investment Potential: Due to their rarity, rubies can be a valuable investment. Collectors and investors in the UAE may purchase rubies as part of their collection of precious stones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Raw Ruby Stone

1. What does a raw ruby look like?
A raw ruby typically has a dull, opaque appearance with an irregular shape and rough surface. It may appear brownish or purplish until it is cut and polished, revealing its true red hue.

2. Where are raw rubies found?
Raw rubies are found in countries with specific geological conditions, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Mozambique. In the UAE, rubies are often sourced from these regions and sold through luxury jewelers.

3. How do raw rubies become gemstones?
After being mined, raw rubies are carefully cleaved, shaped, and faceted by skilled gem cutters. The final process involves polishing to enhance the stone’s brilliance and clarity.

4. Why are rubies so expensive?
Rubies are rare and highly valuable due to their color, clarity, and durability. The demand for high-quality rubies in luxury markets, such as the UAE, also contributes to their high price.

5. Can I buy raw rubies in the UAE?
Yes, raw rubies can be purchased from specialized gemstone dealers and luxury jewelry stores in the UAE. However, most consumers buy rubies that are already cut and polished for use in jewelry.

Conclusion

Raw rubies are fascinating to observe in their uncut state. Although they appear dull and rough, these stones have the potential to become some of the most beautiful gemstones in the world. The process of turning a raw ruby into a polished gem is a delicate and intricate one, requiring skill and precision. In the UAE, where luxury jewelry is a significant part of the market, rubies are highly valued and sought after for their beauty and rarity. Whether for investment or personal use, rubies continue to captivate those who appreciate their beauty and symbolism.