Do real rubies have inclusions?
All rubies have inclusions, but avoid those with crystal inclusions. These are long and slender inclusions that are either crystals or narrow tubes. They often look a bit glassy and impact light performance, but less so on color. When larger, they can look like a scratch inside the ruby.
Do synthetic rubies have inclusions?
Many stones cannot heal their fractures, like emeralds. While this is a naturally occurring inclusion, synthetic rubies can show fingerprints too because this is a specific characteristic of the corundum mineral and not its inclusions.
What are the best quality rubies?
Rubies that are graded as VVS and VS are considered to be the highest qualities. There are many different kinds of inclusions that are found in rubies. An inclusion is any characteristic that is found inside the stone. Inclusions are natural.
How do you tell if a ruby is real or synthetic?
At a 9 on the Mohs scale, rubies aren’t easily scratched unless you use a diamond. Other gemstones and imitations are more fragile. You can scratch the surface of your ruby with a coin, and if it leaves marks, you likely have a fake. Real rubies won’t get scratched by keys or coins.
Why are some rubies so cheap?
Since natural rubies are rare, they’re also expensive. Generally, synthetic rubies run about 20% cheaper than natural rubies do. Imitations and fakes tend to be 90% cheaper than natural rubies. So, if someone is trying to sell you a ruby at a low price, there’s a good chance you’re getting an imitation or fake.
How do you test a ruby at home?
Grind a coin or fingernail into your ruby’s surface and see if it is getting scratches. If your stone is showing a scratch, then it is not a real ruby. Scratch the ruby against a hard surface such as a piece of clear glass or a porcelain tile. Keep in mind to check if the ruby stone leaves a red mark on the surface.
How can you tell a real ruby from a fake?