When it comes to selecting the perfect gemstone for an engagement ring, rubies have become a popular choice for couples looking for something unique, vibrant, and meaningful. While diamonds are often the traditional choice, engagement rings UK are increasingly showcasing rubies due to their striking beauty and deep symbolism. A ruby is more than just a beautiful stone; it is a symbol of love, passion, and commitment, making it an ideal choice for such a special occasion. However, with so many varieties and qualities of rubies available, it is important to understand how to choose the right one for your engagement ring.
The first factor to consider when choosing a ruby is its color. The ideal ruby color is a rich, vibrant red, often described as “pigeon blood” red. This particular shade is highly sought after because of its depth and intensity. Rubies can range in color from a lighter pinkish-red to a deep, dark crimson, and the value of a ruby is often determined by how saturated its red color is. While a bright, vivid red is the most desirable, personal preference plays a big role, and some people may prefer a slightly lighter or darker shade to suit their taste.
Next, you should look at the size and carat weight of the ruby. Rubies, like other gemstones, come in various sizes and carat weights. The larger the ruby, the more expensive it typically becomes. However, size isn’t the only consideration—clarity is equally important. Rubies often have natural inclusions, which are small imperfections within the stone. These inclusions can affect the ruby’s appearance and value. While it’s impossible to find a completely flawless ruby, the fewer inclusions the stone has, the higher its quality and price tag will be.
When shopping for rubies, you will also encounter rubies with different treatments. Some rubies are treated to enhance their color and clarity, a process that can involve heat treatment or other methods. Heat treatment is widely accepted and is often used to bring out the ruby’s natural color and improve its transparency. However, untreated rubies, or those with minimal treatment, are often considered more valuable. It’s important to ask the jeweler about the treatment history of any ruby you’re considering, as this will influence both its price and its durability.
Durability is another crucial consideration when selecting a ruby for an engagement ring. Rubies are a type of corundum, which is a very hard and durable material. In fact, rubies are second only to diamonds in terms of hardness on the Mohs scale. This means that rubies can withstand everyday wear and tear, making them an excellent choice for a ring that will be worn daily. However, despite their hardness, rubies can still be scratched or chipped under certain circumstances, so it’s essential to treat the ring with care.
Setting is another important factor to consider when choosing a ruby for your engagement ring. Rubies look stunning in various types of settings, from classic solitaires to vintage-inspired halo designs. A popular choice for rubies is to set them in white gold, yellow gold, or platinum, as these metals complement the fiery red of the ruby beautifully. Some people even choose a combination of diamonds and rubies in their engagement rings to add extra sparkle and contrast.
Lastly, the ethical sourcing of the ruby is something that should not be overlooked. With growing awareness around ethical jewelry practices, many couples today want to ensure that their engagement ring features a gemstone that has been responsibly sourced. Reputable jewelers often provide information about the origins of their stones and can help you select a ruby that aligns with your values.
Choosing the right ruby for your engagement ring is a deeply personal decision that involves balancing factors like color, size, clarity, and setting. Whether you’re looking for a bold, eye-catching stone or something more understated, rubies offer a timeless beauty that will never go out of style. By understanding the qualities that make a ruby truly special, you can confidently select the perfect gemstone to symbolize your love and commitment.