Ruby is the most valuable variety of the corundum mineral species, which also includes sapphire.

The word ruby comes from the Latin rubens which means red.

Rubies are found in shades of red, from rich darkish red to pigeon blood red and pinkish red. The red hue comes from traces of the mineral chromium.

Ruby is the birthstone for July. It is also a traditional gift for those celebrating 15th or 40th anniversaries.

Rubies are extremely strong, registering 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness. They are as resilient as sapphires and only slightly softer than diamonds.

Rubies have been found all over the world, including in Myanmar (formerly Burma), Africa, Australia and the USA. The majority of rubies for sale at Israel-Diamonds originate in Myanmar, Thailand and other locations in Asia.

The most precious rubies are those with a full, rich red color with just a hint of blue tones. Originally, the finest rubies were mined in Myanmar and it is from there that the term Burmese ruby began to describe the finest rubies.

Almost all rubies have flaws. Rubies without imperfections are exceptionally rare and command prices even higher than diamonds of a similar weight and quality.

Rubies, because of their brilliant red hues, are often related to themes concerning the essence and vibrancy of life. If there is one gemstone that represents the passion of love, it is the ruby.

Almost all natural rubies are treated to improve their color and strengthen them. This is standard practice in the jewelry industry and is accepted by the American Gem Trade Association and Shine Stones.