Rubies, with their vibrant red hue, exceptional durability and profound symbolism, are undeniably the stars of the gemstone world. However, not all rubies are naturally flawless. Most rubies available in the market undergo treatments to enhance their appearance. One of the most common techniques is heat treatment, which permanently improves a ruby’s color and clarity. If you’re planning on investing in ruby jewelry, understanding the difference between a treated ruby vs. an untreated ruby is key.
In this article, we’ll explore what heat treatment is, why it’s done and the key differences between heat-treated rubies and untreated ones.
What Is Heat Treatment?
As part of the heat treatment process, rubies are exposed to high temperatures in a controlled environment, typically ranging from 3,092 to 3,992°F. The heating is conducted for a specific duration, after which the rubies are carefully cooled to stabilize the changes in their color and clarity.
Why Are Rubies Heat-Treated?
If you’re wondering why rubies are heat-treated, here are the primary reasons:
1. Color Enhancement
There is a marked difference in the color of a heat-treated ruby before and after the process. Any uneven color in untreated rubies is enhanced to make it richer and more uniform. This also helps minimize visible imperfections, enhancing the ruby’s overall appearance.
2. Increased Availability
Heat-treated rubies are more readily available compared to untreated ones. Manufacturers use the treatment to enhance the appearance of rubies, making them more desirable and increasing the heat-treated ruby’s value.
3. Improved Clarity
Ruby heating reduces the gemstone’s visible imperfections and inclusions. During the heat treatment, the tiny fractures partially seal, resulting in a clearer gemstone.
Now that you’ve got all the information you need about heat treatment and why it’s done, let’s take a sneak peek into untreated rubies and the differences between the two.
What Is an Untreated Ruby?
Natural untreated rubies are untouched since their formation. It’s important to note that less than one percent of all mined rubies is of optimum quality and doesn’t need heat treatment. This scarcity increases an untreated ruby’s value, making them a better investment.
Differences Between Heat-Treated and Untreated Rubies
1. Value
Untreated rubies are found in pure form, unaltered and untouched. This is what makes rubies valuable, unlike their treated counterparts that are visually enhanced using heat treatment.
2. Durability
The natural properties of untreated rubies help them remain durable. Although heat treatments don’t reduce the durability of rubies, some buyers may pay less due to the alterations the gem undergoes.
3. Buyer Perception
Untreated rubies are often perceived as a premium choice for those who seek rare gemstones. Heat-treated rubies are widely accepted as they are more easily available and their enhanced beauty appeals to many.
4. Appearance
Untreated rubies often have tiny visible inclusions, zoning or uneven coloring. Plus, their color may appear less bright or vibrant. On the other hand, heat-treated rubies appear more vivid, with fewer visible imperfections and more uniformity in color.
Heat-treated rubies are a popular choice for their vibrant color and enhanced clarity, offering stunning beauty. Untreated rubies share the same durability but stand out for their rarity, natural charm and value.
Wondering how to tell if a ruby is real? That’s simple! Examine the ruby under magnification and look for minor inclusions. You can also carefully observe its color. A real ruby should have a rich red and slightly purplish hue that’s not too dark and not too light.
Now that you’ve got a good understanding of heat-treated and untreated rubies, we’re sure you can’t wait to get your hands on some stunning ruby pieces. So, head over to Angara and check out irresistible ruby jewelry for women to add to your stash. And if you and your partner are looking for a gorgeous token of love, do check out our guide to buy a ruby engagement ring for useful tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are rubies heat treated?
Rubies are heat-treated to enhance their color and clarity, making them more vibrant and visually appealing. The process makes the gem appear uniform, improves its transparency and reduces inclusions and flaws.
2. Why do rubies hold heat so long?
Rubies hold heat for a long time due to their high thermal conductivity. Composed of aluminum oxide, rubies absorb and retain heat, dispersing it gradually. This property, along with its exceptional durability, makes this gemstone ideal for jewelry.
3. What do rubies symbolize?
Rubies symbolize love, passion and power. Many believe that this gemstone is a symbol of protection and good fortune. Ruby is also the July birthstone and the gemstone for the 40th wedding anniversary.
