Rubies are more than just gemstones, they’re a symbol of love, passion, power and prestige. Among them, the pigeon blood ruby reigns supreme, celebrated for its unparalleled beauty and rarity. But what exactly makes this type of ruby so sought after? Is it just its mesmerizing color or is there more to this gemstone’s legendary appeal? Let’s dive into the world of this captivating gem and uncover why it holds such fascination and value.
What Is a Pigeon Blood Ruby?
The term ‘pigeon blood ruby’ originates from the Burmese word ko-twe, which translates to ‘pigeon blood.’ There are two fascinating theories about its origin. One suggests that the term comes from an ancient Burmese legend, where the first two drops of blood from a pigeon were believed to match the deep red color of the ruby. Another theory links the term to the striking red hue of a pigeon’s eye, particularly its inner rim, which closely resembles the rich, saturated color of these rubies.
A pigeon blood ruby is not just any ruby, it’s a true showstopper in the world of gemstones. Its vivid red hue, accented by subtle blue undertones, creates a velvety brilliance that truly sets it apart. The finest examples often originate from Myanmar (formerly Burma), known for producing rubies with unparalleled quality and intensity. The pigeon blood ruby color chart helps determine whether a ruby meets this prestigious standard.
Evaluating the Color of a Pigeon Blood Red Ruby
The popularity of pigeon blood rubies lies in their captivating color. To truly appreciate this, let’s get a better understanding of what makes these gemstones so exceptional.
- Hue: The primary hue of a pigeon blood ruby must be a vivid, pure red. The color should appear intense and rich, free from orange or brown tints. Slight blue undertones are a defining feature, giving the ruby a velvety and luxurious depth.
- Tone: The tone refers to the lightness or darkness of the ruby. Blood red stones must strike the perfect balance. They should not be too dark as that can dull their brilliance, and not too light as that may reduce the intensity of the red.
- Saturation: The saturation determines the color’s vividness. Pigeon blood rubies should exhibit exceptional saturation, with a vibrant, glowing red that stands out. Gemstones with low saturation, appearing too pale or washed out, do not meet the criteria.
- Color Consistency: One of the key markers of this variety of ruby is even color distribution throughout the gem. Zoning or uneven patches of color disqualify a ruby from this elite category.
Why Are Pigeon Blood Rubies in Demand?
The demand for pigeon blood rubies extends far beyond their stunning visual appeal. These gems have captivated the world, thanks to their rarity, historical significance, cultural symbolism and even astrological benefits. Let’s explore why these fiery stones hold such allure.
1. Unmatched Rarity
True pigeon blood rubies are the rarest of the rare. Their vibrant red hue with subtle blue undertones is incredibly hard to find in nature, making them highly coveted. Burmese mines, the primary source, yield only a limited number of gems that meet the exacting criteria. With increasing scarcity, owning one is like owning a tangible piece of Earth’s most exquisite artistry.
2. Historical Prestige
Rubies have been celebrated for centuries, with blood red gemstones symbolizing power, passion and protection. Burmese royalty wore them as talismans, believing they granted invincibility in battle. Today, a blood red ruby remains a universal symbol of luxury, wealth and deep-seated tradition, tying the wearer to centuries of cultural legacy.
3. Aesthetic Appeal
The vivid, velvety hue of a pigeon blood ruby is unmatched. Its hue is so vibrant that it seems to radiate warmth and energy, captivating anyone who gazes upon it. Unlike many stones, it retains its brilliance in every type of light. The gem’s striking appeal certainly makes it a star in high-end jewelry.
4. Investment Value
Wondering how much is a pigeon blood ruby worth? Prices can range from thousands to millions per carat depending on origin, size and quality. In fact, at prestigious auctions, natural pigeon blood rubies often outperform diamonds, making them a prized possession for collectors and investors alike.
5. Astrological Benefits
Pigeon blood red ruby isn’t just a gemstone with breathtaking beauty, it’s also a powerful ally in astrology. Known for its vibrant, fiery hue, this ruby is believed to bring strength, vitality and success to its wearer. The astrological benefits of ruby are numerous, as it’s said to enhance confidence, boost leadership skills and ignite passion.
Final Thoughts
The fascination with pigeon blood rubies stems from their rich history, stunning beauty and extraordinary rarity. Whether you’re captivated by their fiery hues or their symbolic power, these gems hold a special place in the world of luxury.
To truly make them shine, choosing the best metal for ruby, such as platinum or gold, enhances their brilliance. Whether for a special occasion or as an heirloom, a pigeon blood ruby is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Looking for the perfect piece of ruby jewelry? Explore Angara’s collection of exquisite ruby jewelry for women and find the ideal design to elevate your style.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How are pigeon blood rubies different from other red rubies?
Pigeon blood rubies stand out from other red rubies due to their unique color — a rich, vibrant red with subtle blue undertones. While other red rubies may display variations in tone and saturation, they often lack the velvety brilliance and deep intensity that define pigeon blood rubies.
2. What does the pigeon blood ruby represent?
The pigeon blood ruby has long been associated with passion, power and prosperity. Its intense hue is symbolic of love and courage, while its rarity signifies exclusivity and prestige. For centuries, these blood red gemstones have adorned royalty and played a central role in cultural traditions, making them not just beautiful but historically significant too.
3. How much is a pigeon blood ruby worth?
Pigeon blood ruby prices vary widely depending on the color, size and overall quality. Smaller stones or those with slight imperfections may be more affordable, while flawless, larger rubies of Burmese origin often command sky-high prices. On average, a top-tier natural pigeon blood ruby can cost thousands per carat, with exceptional pieces fetching even more.
4. How can I tell if a pigeon blood ruby is real?
To determine if a pigeon blood ruby is authentic, it’s best to consult a certified gemologist who will assess the ruby’s color, clarity and overall quality. Genuine pigeon blood rubies typically come with certification from gemological labs, ensuring their authenticity.
