Is It Real? How To Tell A Real Ruby From A Fake

Hey guys! Ever wondered if that stunning ruby you've got your eye on is the real deal? You're not alone! Rubies are gorgeous, super valuable gemstones, and unfortunately, there are a lot of fakes out there. But don't worry, I'm here to give you the lowdown on how to spot a genuine ruby. We'll dive into everything from checking the color and clarity to performing some simple tests. By the end of this guide, you'll be a pro at telling real rubies from imposters. So, let's get started and make sure you're investing in the real thing!

1. Understanding the Allure of Real Rubies

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty of testing, let's chat a bit about why real rubies are so prized. Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, and their beautiful red color comes from traces of chromium. The intensity of the red can vary, with the most sought-after shade being a vibrant, pure red often called "pigeon's blood." But what makes a ruby so captivating? Well, it's a combination of factors. First off, their color is just mesmerizing. That deep red hue has been associated with passion, love, and power for centuries. Think about it – rubies have adorned the crowns of royalty and the jewelry of the elite for ages! Beyond their color, rubies are also incredibly durable. They're one of the hardest gemstones out there, second only to diamonds on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means they can withstand daily wear and tear, making them perfect for rings, necklaces, and other jewelry that you'll want to wear often. And of course, let's not forget the rarity factor. High-quality rubies are pretty rare, especially those with that coveted "pigeon's blood" color and excellent clarity. This rarity, combined with their beauty and durability, is what drives up their value and makes them such a prized possession. So, whether you're a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry lover, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, understanding the allure of real rubies is the first step in appreciating their true worth. Now, let's get into how to tell the real gems from the fakes!

2. The Color Test: What to Look For

Okay, let's talk color! The color of a ruby is one of the most important factors in determining its authenticity and value. Real rubies get their vibrant red hue from the presence of chromium, and the intensity of this red can vary quite a bit. The most prized rubies have a rich, pure red color, sometimes described as "pigeon's blood," which is a deep, intense red with a slight hint of blue. However, rubies can also range in color from orangey-red to purplish-red. So, what should you be looking for? First off, be wary of rubies that look too perfect. In other words, if the color is a flat, even red with no variation, it might be a synthetic ruby or even a completely different red gemstone. Natural rubies often have slight variations in color, with areas of more intense red and areas of lighter red. This is because the chromium is not always evenly distributed throughout the stone. Another thing to watch out for is the overall tone of the ruby. A real ruby should have a vibrant, lively color that seems to glow from within. If the ruby looks dull, lifeless, or overly dark, it might not be a genuine ruby. You should also compare the ruby to known examples of real rubies. There are tons of images and videos online that showcase the color of natural rubies from different sources. This can give you a good sense of what a real ruby should look like. Of course, color alone isn't enough to determine if a ruby is real. There are other factors to consider, such as clarity and cut, which we'll get into later. But understanding the nuances of ruby color is a crucial first step in identifying the real deal. So, keep your eyes peeled for those vibrant, lively reds, and remember that slight color variations can actually be a good sign! Let’s continue to discover this amazing gemstone.

3. Clarity Counts: Examining Inclusions

Now, let's dive into clarity! When we talk about clarity in gemstones, we're referring to the presence (or absence) of internal flaws or inclusions. Inclusions are basically tiny imperfections within the stone, like small crystals, needles, or even bubbles. While perfectly flawless rubies are incredibly rare (and incredibly expensive!), most natural rubies will have some inclusions. In fact, these inclusions can actually be a good thing! They're like a ruby's fingerprints, providing evidence that the stone is natural and not synthetic. So, how do you examine a ruby for inclusions? The best way is to use a jeweler's loupe, which is a small magnifying glass specifically designed for gemstone inspection. A 10x magnification loupe is ideal. Under magnification, you'll be able to see any inclusions within the ruby. What kinds of inclusions should you look for? As I mentioned, natural rubies often have tiny crystals or needles within them. These can look like small, thread-like lines or shiny specks. You might also see gas bubbles or liquid-filled cavities. The key thing to remember is that these inclusions are usually irregular and randomly distributed throughout the stone. This is in contrast to synthetic rubies, which often have very clean interiors or inclusions that look more uniform and geometric. For example, some synthetic rubies have curved growth lines or gas bubbles arranged in a circular pattern. These are telltale signs of a lab-created stone. Of course, just because a ruby has inclusions doesn't automatically mean it's real. Some fake rubies are intentionally created with inclusions to make them look more natural. That's why it's important to consider the type and distribution of the inclusions, as well as other factors like color and cut. But in general, the presence of irregular, randomly distributed inclusions is a good sign that you're dealing with a genuine ruby. Let's keep digging deeper!

4. The Scratch Test: Ruby's Hardness Advantage

Alright, let's get a little more hands-on with the scratch test! This test relies on the fact that rubies are incredibly hard gemstones. In fact, they're second only to diamonds on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, which is a scale that measures a mineral's resistance to scratching. Rubies have a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, while diamonds have a hardness of 10. This means that a ruby can scratch almost any other material, except for a diamond. So, how can you use this to test if a ruby is real? The basic idea is to try scratching the ruby with a material that's known to be softer than a ruby. If the ruby gets scratched, then it's likely not a genuine ruby. If the ruby doesn't get scratched, it's a good sign that it's the real deal. Important Disclaimer: Before we go any further, I need to emphasize that the scratch test should be done with caution and ideally by a professional. Scratching a gemstone, even if it's a fake, can damage it. If you're not comfortable performing this test yourself, it's best to take the ruby to a qualified gemologist. Okay, with that disclaimer out of the way, let's talk about how the scratch test works. One common method is to use a piece of corundum, which is the mineral that rubies are made of. Corundum has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, so it should be able to scratch other gemstones that are softer than a ruby. To perform the test, you would gently try scratching the ruby with the corundum. If the ruby gets scratched, it's likely not a ruby. Another method is to use a hardness pick set, which contains a series of pointed tools with different hardness levels. You would start with a pick that's softer than a ruby (like a 7 or 8) and gradually increase the hardness until you find a pick that can scratch the ruby. If a pick with a hardness of 9 or lower scratches the ruby, it's probably not a real ruby. Again, I want to stress that the scratch test is not foolproof and should be used in conjunction with other tests. Some fake rubies are made from materials that are relatively hard, so they might pass the scratch test even though they're not genuine. But if a ruby fails the scratch test, it's a pretty strong indication that it's not the real deal. Let’s explore some more tests!

5. The Glass Test: A Simple Home Check

Let's move on to the glass test, which is a simple test you can do at home to get a preliminary idea of a ruby's authenticity. This test is based on the hardness of rubies compared to glass. As we discussed earlier, rubies are very hard gemstones, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale. Glass, on the other hand, has a hardness of around 5.5 to 6. So, a ruby should be able to scratch glass, while a softer stone won't. To perform the glass test, you'll need a piece of glass (like a glass tile or a glass bottle) and the ruby you want to test. Important Note: Be careful when performing this test, as you could potentially scratch the glass or the ruby. It's best to use a piece of glass that you don't mind scratching and to apply gentle pressure when scratching. To do the test, hold the ruby firmly and try scratching the glass with a pointed edge or corner of the stone. Apply moderate pressure and make a short, deliberate scratch. Then, examine the glass and the ruby. If the ruby scratches the glass, leaving a visible scratch mark, it's a good sign that the ruby is relatively hard and could be genuine. However, if the ruby doesn't scratch the glass or if it leaves a powdery residue instead of a scratch, it's likely that the ruby is softer than glass and therefore not a real ruby. It's crucial to remember that the glass test is not a definitive test for ruby authenticity. It's just a quick and easy way to get a general idea of the stone's hardness. Some fake rubies are made from materials that are also hard enough to scratch glass, so they might pass this test even though they're not genuine. Also, the glass test won't tell you anything about the color, clarity, or other important characteristics of the ruby. That's why it's important to use the glass test in conjunction with other tests and to consult a qualified gemologist for a professional evaluation. Let’s dive into the next test!

6. The Fluorescence Test: Glowing Under UV Light

Now, let's shed some light on the fluorescence test! This test takes advantage of the fact that many natural rubies fluoresce, or glow, under ultraviolet (UV) light. This fluorescence is caused by the presence of chromium, the same element that gives rubies their red color. When UV light hits a ruby, the chromium atoms absorb the energy and then release it as visible light, causing the ruby to glow. The color and intensity of the fluorescence can vary depending on the specific ruby and the type of UV light used. Most natural rubies will fluoresce a strong red color under longwave UV light, while some may also fluoresce under shortwave UV light. Synthetic rubies, on the other hand, may fluoresce a different color (like orange) or not fluoresce at all. So, how do you perform the fluorescence test? You'll need a UV light source, which you can purchase online or at some hardware stores. There are two main types of UV lights: longwave and shortwave. For testing rubies, a longwave UV light is generally recommended. To do the test, simply turn on the UV light and shine it on the ruby in a dark room. Observe the color and intensity of the fluorescence. A strong red fluorescence is a good sign that the ruby is natural. However, a weak or absent fluorescence, or a fluorescence of a different color, suggests that the ruby might be synthetic or a different gemstone altogether. It's important to note that not all natural rubies fluoresce, and some synthetic rubies can also fluoresce. The intensity and color of the fluorescence can also be affected by factors like the ruby's origin and treatment history. For example, heat-treated rubies may exhibit a weaker fluorescence than untreated rubies. That's why the fluorescence test should be used in conjunction with other tests to determine a ruby's authenticity. It's also a good idea to compare the fluorescence of the ruby to known examples of natural and synthetic rubies. You can find many images and videos online that demonstrate the fluorescence of different rubies under UV light. By observing the fluorescence of your ruby and comparing it to these examples, you can get a better sense of whether you're dealing with a genuine gem. Let’s get into more details!

7. Seeking Expert Advice: When to Consult a Gemologist

Okay, guys, we've covered a lot of ground here, from color and clarity to scratch tests and fluorescence. You're well on your way to becoming a ruby-authentication pro! But let's be real: sometimes, despite all your best efforts, you might still be unsure about a ruby's authenticity. And that's perfectly okay! Gemstones can be tricky, and there are a lot of sophisticated fakes out there. That's where a gemologist comes in. A gemologist is a trained professional who specializes in identifying and evaluating gemstones. They have the knowledge, experience, and specialized equipment to accurately assess a ruby's characteristics and determine if it's real or fake. When should you consult a gemologist? Well, if you're dealing with a potentially valuable ruby, it's always a good idea to get a professional opinion. This is especially important if you're considering buying or selling a ruby, as a gemologist's report can provide valuable documentation of the stone's authenticity and quality. You should also consult a gemologist if you've performed some of the tests we've discussed and you're still unsure about the ruby's authenticity. A gemologist can use advanced techniques, like microscopic examination and refractive index measurement, to get a definitive answer. Another situation where a gemologist's expertise is invaluable is if you suspect that a ruby has been treated or enhanced in some way. Many rubies undergo treatments, like heat treatment or fracture filling, to improve their color and clarity. While these treatments are often disclosed, sometimes they're not. A gemologist can identify these treatments and assess their impact on the ruby's value. So, how do you find a reputable gemologist? One good option is to look for a gemologist who is certified by a recognized gemological organization, like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS). These organizations have rigorous training and certification programs, so you can be confident that a certified gemologist has the necessary expertise. Consulting a gemologist might seem like an extra step, but it's an investment in peace of mind. A gemologist's expertise can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure that you're getting a genuine, high-quality ruby. Let’s wrap things up!

Conclusion: Your Path to Ruby Expertise

Alright, guys, that's a wrap! We've journeyed through the fascinating world of rubies, exploring their allure, their unique characteristics, and the methods for distinguishing the real gems from the fakes. From understanding the nuances of ruby color and clarity to performing simple tests like the glass test and fluorescence test, you've gained a solid foundation in ruby authentication. Remember, identifying a real ruby is a multi-faceted process. It's not just about one test or one characteristic; it's about considering the whole picture. Look at the color, examine the clarity, test the hardness, and observe the fluorescence. And if you're ever in doubt, don't hesitate to seek the advice of a qualified gemologist. They're the experts, and their knowledge can be invaluable in ensuring you're making a sound investment. But beyond the practical aspects of ruby authentication, I hope you've also gained a deeper appreciation for these magnificent gemstones. Rubies are more than just pretty stones; they're symbols of passion, power, and enduring beauty. They've captivated us for centuries, and their allure continues to shine brightly today. So, whether you're a seasoned collector or a curious beginner, I encourage you to continue exploring the world of rubies. There's always more to learn, more to discover, and more to appreciate. And with the knowledge you've gained in this guide, you're well-equipped to embark on your own path to ruby expertise. Happy gem hunting!