gemstone
Ruby
Corundum (Al2O3:Cr)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 9, rich red color due to chromium impurities, adamantine to vitreous luster, and trigonal crystal system with no cleavage.
Identified More gemstone →
Explore Ruby in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 9, rich red color due to chromium impurities, adamantine to vitreous luster, and trigonal crystal system with no cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Forms within metamorphic and igneous rocks, specifically marbles and basaltic terrains, through high-temperature and high-pressure crystallization over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Extensively utilized in high-end jewelry, precision laser technology, and mechanical watch bearings.
Geological facts
Ruby is the variety of corundum that gets its characteristic red color from trace amounts of the element chromium. It is one of the traditional cardinal gemstones.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its extreme hardness, high density, and vibrant red fluorescence under UV light, commonly sourced from Myanmar, Thailand, and East Africa.
More like this
Other gemstone specimens
Ammolite
Ammolite (Biogenic Aragonite with trace elements; fossils of Placenticeras meeki and Placenticeras intercalare)
mineral
Gemstone Ring
N/A - Set piece of jewelry, likely Amethyst or Garnet with Diamond or CZ
gemstone
Topaz
Al2SiO4(F,OH)2
mineral
Amber
Succinite (Organic Gemstone)
mineral
Diamond and Gold Jewelry
Carbon (Diamond) / Au (Gold)
gemstone
Red Jasper
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with Hematite inclusions
sedimentary