mineral
Ruby and Diamond in Gold Setting
Corundum (Al2O3) and Diamond (C)
Ruby: Hardness 9, Deep red color, Vitreous luster, Trigonal crystal system. Diamond: Hardness 10, Transparent/White, Adamantine luster, Cubic crystal system.
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Physical properties
Ruby: Hardness 9, Deep red color, Vitreous luster, Trigonal crystal system. Diamond: Hardness 10, Transparent/White, Adamantine luster, Cubic crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Rubies typically form in metamorphic environments (marble-hosted) or basaltic rocks. Diamonds form under high pressure and temperature in the Earth's mantle and are brought to the surface via kimberlite pipes.
Uses & applications
Primary use in fine jewelry and as gemstones; diamonds also have industrial uses for cutting and grinding.
Geological facts
Rubies are the red variety of the mineral corundum; any other color is considered a sapphire. Diamonds are the hardest known natural substance on Earth.
Field identification & locations
Identification includes checking for 'pigeon blood' red in rubies and high refractive index in diamonds. Commonly found in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and South Africa.
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Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
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Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral