mineral
Ruby in Matrix
Corundum (Al2O3)
Hardness: 9 on Mohs scale. Color: Deep pink to blood-red. Luster: Vitreous to sub-adamantine. Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal. Cleavage: None, but exhibits parting. Specific gravity: 3.97-4.05.
- Hardness
- 9 on Mohs scale
- Color
- Deep pink to blood-red
- Luster
- Vitreous to sub-adamantine
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Physical properties
Hardness: 9 on Mohs scale. Color: Deep pink to blood-red. Luster: Vitreous to sub-adamantine. Crystal structure: Hexagonal/Trigonal. Cleavage: None, but exhibits parting. Specific gravity: 3.97-4.05.
Formation & geological history
Formed in metamorphic rocks such as marble or schist, and igneous rocks like basalt. Created through high-pressure, high-temperature recrystallization of aluminum-rich minerals.
Uses & applications
Primary use is in high-end jewelry as a gemstone. Industrial uses include lasers, watches (bearings), and scientific instruments due to extreme hardness.
Geological facts
The red color of ruby is caused by the presence of chromium. It is the second hardest natural material known to man after diamond. Fine rubies can be more valuable than diamonds of similar size.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its distinctive hexagonal crystal habit, extreme hardness (will scratch almost any other mineral), and red streak. Commonly found in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.
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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock