Natural Ruby Value Guide

This natural ruby, a faceted round cut corundum from Myanmar, represents the modern era of the world's most storied gemstone. Known historically as 'ratnaraj' or the king of precious stones, Burmese rubies are prized for their rich heritage and the health, wealth, and wisdom they are said to bestow.

What affects the value of Natural Ruby?

• The specific origin from Myanmar, a region historically significant for the highest quality Mogok Valley stones.
• Clarity and the presence of internal inclusions which can distinguish natural stones from lab-grown counterparts.
• The precision of the faceted round cut, which maximizes light return and overall brilliance.
• Current market demand for smaller, accessible natural specimens valued in the $25-$50 price range.

How to Identify Natural Ruby?

• Verify the faceted round cut geometry for precision and symmetry consistent with 2020-2024 production.
• Examine the stone for natural corundum inclusions typical of Myanmar origin, such as silk or needles.
• Confirm the deep red hue characteristic of authentic ruby specimens rather than synthetic alternatives.
• Check for a high refractive index and hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, unique to natural corundum.

History of Natural Ruby

Rubies have been among the most prized gemstones for millennia, historically sought after by royalty in India and Southeast Asia. Known in Sanskrit as ratnaraj, or king of precious stones, they were believed to bestow health, wealth, and wisdom upon the wearer. Most historically significant rubies originated from the Mogok Valley in Myanmar.