Have you ever been mesmerized by the sparkle of a diamond or the deep red hue of a ruby? These two gemstones have captivated humans for centuries, adorning crowns and jewelry of royalty and celebrities alike. But have you ever wondered what sets these stones apart and makes them so valuable?
The tale of rubies and diamonds is a fascinating one, steeped in history and mythology. It's said that diamonds were first discovered in India, where they were believed to have mystical powers and were used as talismans to ward off evil spirits. Rubies, on the other hand, were considered the "king of gems" in ancient Sanskrit texts and were associated with passion, power, and protection.
But what sets these stones apart in terms of value and rarity? In this blog, we'll explore the key differences between rubies and diamonds, from their chemical composition to their cultural significance. So whether you're a gemstone enthusiast or simply curious about the world of precious stones, join us on this journey of discovery and wonder.
Key Takeaways
- Rubies and diamonds are both precious stones that would fancy any occasion.
- Unlike diamonds, ruby's color might fade away with time with everyday wear and tear.
- Such valuable stones can be budget friendly or a big rip off, depending on cut, color, carat weight and quality.
- In comparison to any stone, diamonds would always be classic and never out of fashion.
- Fancy diamonds and colored diamonds cost a lot more than lab diamonds.
What is Ruby?
Ruby is a beautiful red gemstone composed of the mineral corundum. It's the second hardest gemstone, with a Mohs hardness of 9, and is usually found in shades of pink and vivid red, although some varieties display more of a purplish hue.
What's more? Rubies are typically found in Myanmar and Afghanistan, amongst other places, and are considered to be one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones.
What is Diamond?
Did you know a diamond is a precious gemstone made of carbon atoms? Also, it has been compressed under extreme pressure and heat deep underground within the Earth's mantle. Diamonds are highly valued for their hardness, brilliance, and luster, and are often used to make jewelry and other decorative items.
Not to mention, they come in a variety of shapes and sizes and range in color from colorless to yellow, brown, blue, or even black diamonds. White diamonds, cognac diamonds, red diamonds all fall into fancy colored diamonds that are worth a lot of money. These gems are a symbol of strength, beauty, and wealth and are a popular choice for engagement rings, wedding rings, and other special occasions.
Comparison of Ruby and Diamond
Both of these precious stones have been around for centuries and have been treasured and celebrated by many cultures. But what really sets them apart? Let's take a look at the comparison of ruby vs diamond.
Color
Diamonds come in a variety of colors, from dull yellowish color to blue and beyond. Rubies, on the other hand, are primarily found in the exceptional natural color of red hue. While some rubies can have a slight orange or pink hue, they’re generally known for their deep red color.
Clarity
Both diamonds and rubies can vary in terms of clarity. However, diamonds are often more expensive due to the fact that they’re more transparent, have fewer inclusions and are graded at magnification of 10x. Rubies, on the other hand, have few apparent inclusions, but they can be just as beautiful and worthy as diamonds.
Cut
Both stones can be cut into different shapes and sizes. Diamonds are usually cut into the traditional round brilliant cut or princess cut, while rubies can be cut into many different shapes and sizes.
Carat Weight
Diamonds weigh more than rubies. A 1 carat diamond will be bigger than a 1 carat ruby. In addition, diamonds are typically more expensive than rubies since they’re larger and heavier.
Price
Most obvious difference is diamonds are more expensive than rubies, due to their greater rarity and value. However, both incredible gems can be found at a variety of different price points depending on the quality of the stone.
Pros and Cons of Ruby and Diamond
Choosing between a ruby and a diamond can be a tough decision, as each gemstone has its own unique set of pros and cons. In this section, I will delve into the pros and cons of both rubies and diamonds, giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about which gemstone to choose.
Pros of Ruby
- Durable and strong
- Affordable luxury
- Vibrant color options
Cons of Ruby
- Prone to scratches
- Fades over time
Pros of Diamond
- Rare and durable
- Maximum brilliance
- High-quality option
Cons of Diamond
- Very expensive.
- Flaws not visible to the naked eye.
It all comes down to personal preference when it comes to choosing between Ruby and Diamonds. You can't go wrong with either one, but by weighing the pros and cons, you can make sure you select the stone that best suits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
I hope I may have cleared all the confusion and you would have made your decision by now. But if you haven't, read on while I answer some of the frequently asked questions. They might help further.
Which is better: diamond or ruby?
It really depends on what fits your style and preferences. Both ruby and diamond are beautiful stones, and it really comes down to personal choice. If you want something unique and fiery, a ruby might be the right choice for you. However, if you want something timeless and classic, a diamond is the way to go!
What is more rare: diamond or ruby?
Both rubies and diamonds are rare gems, but diamonds are generally more rare than rubies. The rarity of each stone can depend on the size, quality, and carat weight, so it is important to evaluate each stone’s individual characteristics in order to make the best decision for you.
Is Ruby as strong as diamond?
I would say that ruby gemstones are not as strong as diamonds. Rubies are a type of corundum, which is an extremely hard mineral, but it is still not as hard as diamonds. In terms of hardness, diamonds rank a 10 on the Mohs scale, while rubies rank a 9. That being said, rubies are still a beautiful and durable gemstone.
What is the Chemical Composition of Rubies vs Diamonds?
Rubies are composed of a mineral called corundum (aluminum oxide). The red color that's so eye-catching in rubies comes from the presence of chromium. This is what sets rubies apart from other stones in the same family, such as pink sapphires. While rubies can naturally occur in different shades of red, the most valuable ones have a rich and intense color.
Pure diamonds have a different chemical composition. Diamonds are made of pure carbon that's been compressed over millions of years. This is why most diamonds are known for their hardness, optimum sparkle and brilliance—they can withstand the toughest of wear and tear. Diamonds also come in a wide range of colors, from red diamond to yellow, pink, blue, and even black. In ruby vs diamond, there is the difference of mineral hardness of only 1 point on the Mohs scale but that makes rubies more than 30% softer than diamonds.
Conclusion
Both natural rubies and natural diamonds are beautiful and precious gemstones that make a statement and can be used to express love and admiration. Both stones are also known for their durability and shine. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you choose a Ruby gemstone or a Diamond, you can be sure to have a beautiful and lasting piece of jewelry to enjoy for many years to come.