Rock Identifier
Red faceted gemstone, possibly ruby (Corundum (Al₂O₃), if ruby; image alone cannot confirm identity or natural origin) — gemstone
gemstone

Red faceted gemstone, possibly ruby

Corundum (Al₂O₃), if ruby; image alone cannot confirm identity or natural origin

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Transparent, vivid red, vitreous luster, typically trigonal crystal structure; Mohs hardness 9, no true cleavage. The pictured oval cut is consistent with a ruby, but glass or another red gem can look similar.

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Physical properties

Transparent, vivid red, vitreous luster, typically trigonal crystal structure; Mohs hardness 9, no true cleavage. The pictured oval cut is consistent with a ruby, but glass or another red gem can look similar.

Formation & geological history

Natural ruby forms when aluminum-rich rocks crystallize under high temperature and pressure, often in metamorphic settings; rubies range from ancient to geologically young. Lab-grown corundum is also common.

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry and, because of its hardness, specialized optical and industrial applications.

Geological facts

Ruby is the red variety of corundum; chromium commonly causes its color. A gemological test is needed to distinguish natural ruby from synthetic or imitation stones.

Field identification & locations

Natural rubies occur in Myanmar, Mozambique, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and other regions. Field identification requires testing such as refractive index, inclusions, and spectroscopy; appearance alone is insufficient.