“Rarer than diamonds and more captivating in their fiery allure, rubies have enchanted humanity for centuries.” One iconic example of this timeless beauty is Elizabeth Taylor’s legendary Burmese ruby necklace.
It’s a breathtaking gift from Mike Todd that stands as an eternal symbol of passion and glamor. Yet, the story of rubies doesn’t stop there.
Burmese rubies, famed for their rich “pigeon blood” hue and Mozambique rubies, known for their vibrant brilliance, are two stellar gems that define luxury and elegance.
Each carries unique qualities and charm, leaving gemstone enthusiasts captivated by their mystique. Ready to unravel the sparkling secrets of these gemstones?
Let’s dive into the vivid world of Burmese and Mozambique rubies to discover their differences and beauty.
What Makes Burmese Rubies Special?
Burmese rubies, often called the “Kings of Gems,” are incredibly rare.
Their stunning brilliance stems from their intense red color, often with a pinkish hue. The most coveted shade is known as “Pigeon Blood Red.” This mesmerizing hue has a slight blue undertone, creating a vibrant and glowing appearance.
Myanmar, formerly Burma, produces nearly 90% of the world’s rubies. Burmese ruby stones are treasured for their rich color and silky texture. Their strong fluorescence enhances their allure under natural and artificial light.
Mining these gems isn’t easy. Political and geographical restrictions make sourcing Burmese rubies a challenging endeavor. Despite these obstacles, they remain highly sought after for their exceptional beauty.
Characteristics of Burmese Ruby
Color Range: Ranges from pinkish red to deep red with blue undertones.
Transparency: High-quality Burmese rubies exhibit translucent brilliance.
Fluorescence: Strong under UV light, making them glow intensely.
Inclusions: Fine inclusions, sometimes called “silk,” enhance their softness.
The rarity of untreated Burmese rubies makes them a collector’s dream. Most are heat-treated to improve clarity and color. Finding a natural, untreated Burmese ruby is like finding a treasure.
What Sets Mozambique Rubies Apart?
Mozambique rubies are relatively new in the gemstone world.
Discovered in large quantities in the early 2000s, they have quickly gained fame. These rubies boast vibrant colors and larger sizes, making them a favorite among jewelers.
The Namanhumbir deposit in northeastern Mozambique is a primary source. Spanning over 30,000 hectares, this area produces some of the finest rubies. Unlike Burmese rubies, Mozambique rubies often exhibit slight orange or purplish tones.
These rubies are highly crystalline, with deep red hues. Their inclusions, such as oriented needles and hexagonal shapes, provide a distinct fingerprint. The versatility and availability of Mozambique ruby stones make them popular for both fine and high-end jewelry.
Characteristics of Mozambique Rubies
Color Range: From delicate pink to bright red, often with orange or purplish tones.
Transparency: Highly crystalline with vibrant clarity.
Fluorescence: Medium to strong under UV light, adding to their appeal.
Inclusions: Unique patterns like hexagonal outlines and angular bands.
While not as rare as Burmese rubies, Mozambique rubies are equally captivating. Their accessibility and stunning appearance make them a global favorite.
Celebrities Wearing Ruby Jewelry
Rubies have long been a favorite of celebrities, gracing red carpets and iconic moments.
Elizabeth Taylor: Known for her exquisite jewelry collection, Taylor’s famous ruby necklace, gifted by Mike Todd, featured dazzling Burmese rubies.
Jessica Simpson: Her engagement ring from Eric Johnson showcased a stunning ruby centerpiece surrounded by diamonds.
Victoria Beckham: The fashion icon owns a Burmese ruby ring, adding a regal touch to her impressive jewelry collection.
Jennifer Lopez: At the 2011 BAFTA Awards, Lopez wore ruby earrings that beautifully complemented her glamorous look.
Princess Margaret: The royal’s ruby and diamond tiara remains one of the most memorable ruby pieces in history.
These examples highlight rubies’ timeless elegance and their ability to make bold statements in high fashion.
Comparing Gemstones: Burmese Ruby and Mozambique Ruby
Both Burmese and Mozambique rubies are extraordinary. Here’s how they differ:
| Feature | Burmese Ruby | Mozambique Ruby |
| Origin | Myanmar (Burma) | Mozambique |
| Color | Intense red with blue undertones | Vibrant red with orange or purple hints |
| Fluorescence | Very strong, creating a vibrant glowing red under UV light | Medium to strong, adding a captivating depth and subtle glow |
| Rarity | Extremely rare | More widely available |
| Size | Smaller sizes are common | Larger sizes are more common |
| Inclusions | Fine “silk” inclusions—tiny rutile needles that soften light and enhance glow | Hexagonal and angular patterns, with fine particles adding texture and character |
How to Choose Between Burmese and Mozambique Rubies
Your choice depends on personal preference and budget. If rarity and historical value appeal to you, a Burmese ruby is an ideal choice.
Its vivid color and silky texture make it a timeless treasure. If you prefer larger sizes and a vibrant appearance, opt for a Mozambique ruby. These rubies offer excellent value without compromising beauty.
Key Considerations When Buying Rubies
Color: Look for rich, vibrant hues.
Clarity: Minimal visible inclusions enhance value.
Cut: A well-cut ruby maximizes its brilliance.
Origin: Burmese rubies are rarer, but Mozambique rubies offer greater variety.
Elevate Your Sparkle with GemsNY
When it comes to Burmese ruby, the choices are endless and the beauty is beyond comparison.
Burmese rubies carry the magic of history in every gleaming facet, while Mozambique rubies shine with vibrant, unforgettable hues. No matter your pick, these gems bring sophistication and radiance to any collection.
But here’s where GemsNY truly steals the show. We offer an exceptional selection of rubies from all origins, each piece designed to wow and shine in its own way. Looking for a statement Burmese ruby ring for that surprise proposal? Or a stunning ruby pendant to commemorate an epic anniversary? We’ve got designs and metals that speak to your unique style.
So, why wait? Add it to your cart, pick your perfect piece and let your ruby dreams come to life! Your forever sparkle is just a click away!
