Introduction
Rubies are a beautiful and valuable gemstone. Purple rubies have an intense purple color that is caused by impurities in the stone. Red rubies are more common than purple rubies and have a reddish color. While the value of a ruby may depend on its size and quality, the color is also an important factor. In this article, we will compare purple rubies and red rubies to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a ruby.
History of Ruby
The ruby is a precious gemstone that has been prized for centuries. The first rubies were mined in India, and the stone was quickly traded to other parts of the world. Rubies were used in jewelry, religious artifacts, and even as a form of currency. Today, rubies are still mined in India, as well as in Burma, Thailand, and Sri Lanka.
Physical Properties of Purple Ruby and Red Ruby
- Purple Ruby: a type of ruby that has a purple color. The purple color is caused by the presence of chromium in the stone.
- Red Ruby: a type of ruby that has a red color. The red color is caused by the presence of iron in the stone.
Chemical Composition of Purple Ruby and Red Ruby
- Purple Ruby: Al2O3 + Cr2O3
- Red Ruby: Al2O3 + Fe2O3
Hardness of Purple Ruby and Red Ruby
- Purple Ruby: 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness
- Red Ruby: 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness
Refractive Index of Purple Ruby and Red Ruby
- Purple Ruby: 1.76 – 1.77
- Red Ruby: 1.76 – 1.77
Specific Gravity of Purple Ruby and Red Ruby
- Purple Ruby: 3.95 – 4.10
- Red Ruby: 3.95 – 4.10
Color of Purple Ruby and Red Ruby
- Purple Ruby: purple
- Red Ruby: red
Transparency of Purple Ruby and Red Ruby
- Purple Ruby: transparent to translucent
- Red Ruby: transparent to translucent
Luster of Purple Ruby and Red Ruby
- Purple Ruby: vitreous
- Red Ruby: vitreous
Cleavage of Purple Ruby and Red Ruby
- Purple Ruby: imperfect
- Red Ruby: imperfect
Fracture of Purple Ruby and Red Ruby
- Purple Ruby: conchoidal
- Red Ruby: conchoidal
Tenacity of Purple Ruby and Red Ruby
- Purple Ruby: brittle
- Red Ruby: brittle
Value of Purple Ruby and Red Ruby
- Purple Ruby: more valuable than red ruby
- Red Ruby: less valuable than purple ruby
Applications of Purple Ruby and Red Ruby
- Purple Ruby: jewelry, religious artifacts, currency
- Red Ruby: jewelry, religious artifacts, currency
Conclusion
Purple rubies and red rubies are both beautiful and valuable gemstones. Ultimately, the best way to choose between a purple ruby and a red ruby is to consider your personal preferences. If you are looking for a unique and valuable gemstone, a purple ruby may be the right choice for you. If you are looking for a more traditional gemstone, a red ruby may be a better option.
Additional Information
- The largest purple ruby ever found weighed over 25 carats.
- Purple rubies are often found in Burma, Thailand, and Sri Lanka.
- Red rubies are more common than purple rubies.
- Purple rubies are often used in jewelry, while red rubies are often used in religious artifacts.
- The value of a ruby depends on its size, quality, and color.