Hey guys, ever wondered about the most expensive ruby in the world? These gemstones aren't just pretty rocks; they're a symbol of wealth, power, and history. Let's dive into what makes a ruby super valuable and take a peek at some record-breakers.

What Makes a Ruby Valuable?

Before we drool over the most expensive ruby, let's understand what drives up their price. It's not just about being red!

Color

The color of a ruby is the single most important factor influencing its value. The ideal ruby color is a vivid, pure red with a slight hint of blue. This is often referred to as "pigeon's blood" red. The more intense and pure the red, the higher the price. Stones that are too orange, brown, or purple will be worth significantly less. The distribution of color is also crucial; an evenly colored ruby is more desirable than one with color zoning or uneven patches.

Clarity

Like diamonds, clarity plays a significant role. While rubies are rarely flawless, the fewer inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (surface imperfections), the better. However, some inclusions can actually enhance a ruby's appearance. For example, fine, needle-like inclusions of rutile silk can scatter light, creating a velvety effect that increases the stone's beauty and value. Opaque rubies with numerous inclusions are generally less valuable, except in cases where the inclusions create a desirable effect like asterism (a star-like pattern).

Cut

A ruby's cut significantly impacts its brilliance and overall appearance. A well-cut ruby will maximize light return, making the stone appear more vibrant and lively. The cut should also minimize the appearance of any inclusions and enhance the stone's color. Common ruby cuts include oval, cushion, round, and emerald cuts. The cutter must consider the ruby's natural shape and color zoning when deciding on the best cut to optimize its beauty and value. A poorly cut ruby can appear dull and lifeless, even if it has excellent color and clarity.

Carat

Carat weight is a straightforward factor: larger rubies are rarer and generally more expensive than smaller ones, assuming all other quality factors are equal. However, the price per carat increases exponentially as the size increases. A 5-carat ruby of excellent quality will be worth significantly more per carat than a 1-carat ruby of the same quality. Large, high-quality rubies are exceptionally rare and are highly sought after by collectors and investors. The availability of large rubies is limited, making them a prized possession in the gemstone world.

Origin

The origin of a ruby can also affect its value. Historically, rubies from Myanmar (formerly Burma) have been considered the most desirable due to their exceptional color and quality. However, rubies from other locations, such as Mozambique, Thailand, and Vietnam, can also command high prices if they possess excellent color, clarity, and size. The reputation and history associated with a particular mine or region can influence the perceived value of a ruby. For example, rubies from the Mogok region of Myanmar are particularly prized due to their long-standing reputation for producing the finest rubies in the world.

Famous and Expensive Rubies

Okay, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some of the most expensive rubies that have made headlines:

The Sunrise Ruby

Topping our list is the Sunrise Ruby, a 25.59-carat Burmese ruby set in a ring by Cartier. This beauty sold for a whopping $30.3 million at a Sotheby's auction in 2015, setting a world record for a ruby at auction. Its exceptional color, clarity, and size, combined with its prestigious Burmese origin and Cartier setting, contributed to its sky-high price. The Sunrise Ruby is considered one of the finest examples of a Burmese ruby ever to come to auction, making it a coveted prize for collectors and gemstone enthusiasts.

The Graff Ruby

Another showstopper is the Graff Ruby, a 8.62-carat Burmese ruby ring. It fetched $8.6 million at auction in 2014, translating to just over $1 million per carat! Its intense red color and exceptional clarity, coupled with its history as part of Laurence Graff's collection, made it a highly desirable piece. The Graff Ruby's vibrant hue and exquisite cut further enhanced its allure, captivating bidders and solidifying its place among the world's most valuable gemstones. Its sale underscored the enduring appeal of Burmese rubies and their ability to command top prices in the global market.

The Ratnaraj Ruby

The Ratnaraj Ruby, which translates to "King of Rubies", weighs an astounding 247.5 carats. While its exact sale price isn't publicly available, its sheer size and quality place it among the most valuable rubies in the world. It's a true testament to the wonders of nature and the allure of these precious gemstones. The Ratnaraj Ruby's impressive size and rich color make it a remarkable specimen, showcasing the potential for rubies to reach exceptional dimensions while maintaining their inherent beauty. Its presence serves as a reminder of the geological processes that create these stunning gems and their enduring appeal to collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.

Investing in Rubies: Is It Worth It?

Thinking about investing in rubies? Here’s the lowdown. Investing in gemstones, particularly expensive rubies, can be a lucrative but complex endeavor. Like any investment, it requires careful research, due diligence, and a good understanding of the market.

Potential Upsides

• Rarity: High-quality rubies, especially those of significant size and exceptional color, are incredibly rare. This scarcity can drive up their value over time, making them a potentially good investment.
• Historical Value: Gemstones have always held value and significance throughout history. They are tangible assets that can retain their worth even during economic downturns.
• Portfolio Diversification: Investing in rubies can diversify your investment portfolio, reducing your overall risk. Gemstones are often uncorrelated with other asset classes, such as stocks and bonds.

Potential Downsides

• Market Volatility: The gemstone market can be volatile, and prices can fluctuate depending on demand, supply, and economic conditions.
• Liquidity: Selling rubies can be more challenging than selling stocks or bonds. It may take time to find a buyer willing to pay the right price.
• Expertise Required: Evaluating the quality and authenticity of rubies requires expertise. It's essential to work with reputable gemologists and dealers to avoid overpaying or purchasing fake stones.

Tips for Investing in Rubies

• Do Your Research: Before investing in rubies, educate yourself about the different factors that influence their value, such as color, clarity, cut, and carat weight.
• Work with Reputable Dealers: Purchase rubies from reputable gem dealers who have a proven track record and can provide accurate grading reports.
• Get a Gemological Certificate: Obtain a gemological certificate from a recognized laboratory, such as GIA or Gubelin, to verify the ruby's authenticity and quality.
• Consider Insurance: Insure your rubies against loss, theft, or damage to protect your investment.

Taking Care of Your Ruby

Alright, you've got a valuable ruby. How do you keep it looking its best? Proper care and maintenance are essential to preserve the beauty and value of your ruby. Here's how:

Cleaning

• Gentle Cleaning: Clean your ruby jewelry regularly with a soft brush, mild soap, and warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the stone.
• Ultrasonic Cleaners: While some rubies can be safely cleaned in an ultrasonic cleaner, it's best to consult with a jeweler before doing so. Inclusions or fractures within the ruby could be exacerbated by ultrasonic cleaning.

Storage

• Separate Storage: Store your ruby jewelry separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches and damage. A soft pouch or jewelry box with individual compartments is ideal.
• Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Avoid exposing your ruby to extreme temperatures or sudden temperature changes, as this can cause the stone to crack.

Professional Checkups

• Regular Inspections: Have your ruby jewelry professionally inspected and cleaned by a jeweler at least once a year. They can check for loose prongs, signs of wear, and other potential problems.
• Repairs: If you notice any damage to your ruby jewelry, such as a chipped stone or a broken setting, take it to a jeweler for repair as soon as possible.

Conclusion

The world of expensive rubies is fascinating! From the Sunrise Ruby's record-breaking sale to the allure of Burmese stones, these gems capture our imagination. Whether you're a collector, investor, or simply a gemstone enthusiast, understanding what makes a ruby valuable can help you appreciate these treasures even more. Just remember to do your homework, work with reputable professionals, and enjoy the beauty of these stunning gems!