Red Rubies

Rubies are a gemstone variety of the mineral corundum. They get their signature red color from trace inclusions of chromium in corundum. The result is a gemstone with iconic red colors ranging from purplish red to a lighter somewhat orange red. Rubies are durable and colorful gemstones fit for frequent wear and special occasions.

The exact price of a ruby will depend on multiple factors including gemstone size, cut and color intensity. Rubies range from under $300 for smaller and lighter gemstones to tens of thousands of dollars for larger well statured rubies. At Blue Nile, we offer rubies for sale to fit every budget.

Rubies are often found in Myanmar, Thailand, India, Pakistan, and Nepal.

Typically, diamonds command a higher price tag than rubies.

Like many other gemstones, rubies are the result of natural processes beneath the soil. Deep underground, conditions like intense heat and pressure in metamorphic rocks result in the formation of rubies. Specifically, rubies come from the natural processes that create the mineral corundum when chromium is added to the mix.

Yes, ruby is the birthstone for July.

When you’re exploring rubies for sale, consider the color saturation of the gemstone above all else. You should also keep clarity and cut in mind. Visit our ruby buying guide to learn more.

Yes, rubies are incredibly durable gemstones. They rank a 9 out of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness. They can be worn without worry, but some extra precautions should always be taken to protect fine jewelry from wear and tear. Avoid exposing rubies to harsh chemicals, household cleaners or cosmetics to preserve the gemstone’s beauty. You should also remove any ruby jewelry before swimming, showering, exercising, or gardening. Explore our gemstone care guide to learn more.