gemstone
Ruby
Corundum (Al2O3)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 9; red color due to chromium; vitreous to adamantine luster; trigonal crystal system; no cleavage with conchoidal fracture.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 9; red color due to chromium; vitreous to adamantine luster; trigonal crystal system; no cleavage with conchoidal fracture.
Formation & geological history
Forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks, specifically marble, basalt, or gneiss, through regional and contact metamorphism.
Uses & applications
Highly prized in fine jewelry and used historically in watch bearings and industrial lasers.
Geological facts
Ruby is one of the traditional cardinal gemstones and is the red variety of the mineral corundum, with blue varieties being sapphire.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its extreme hardness, red color, and typical hexagonal barrel-shaped crystal habit; found globally with notable deposits in Myanmar and Thailand.
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