Ruby vs Rubellite: How To Differentiate

When it comes to distinguishing between ruby and rubellite gemstones, many people find it quite tricky and mind-boggling. This is because their names sound similar and they both display beautiful shades of red which makes it daunting to differentiate. It’s not uncommon for individuals to wonder if these are just different names for the same gemstone or if they belong to the same gemstone family or mineral family. However, the sheer reality is that ruby and rubellite are two distinct gemstones with their own unique characteristics, astrological benefits, physical properties, and histories.

While they share similar names and colors, their similarities essentially end there. Ruby and rubellite are entirely separate gemstones, each with its own fascinating story and attributes. So, despite the confusion their names and appearances may cause, they are indeed different gems worthy of exploration and appreciation in their own right. We have carved this blog post solely to make our valued readers aware of the differentiation between Ruby vs Rubellite that will help them to make well-informed decisions whenever they plan to buy one of these gemstones.

Ruby vs Rubellite: Origin

Though their fiery colors can cause confusion, rubies and rubellites come from different geochemical backgrounds.

Ruby

Primarily mined in Asia, particularly Myanmar (formerly Burma), Thailand, Sri Lanka, and India.

Formed in marble rocks subjected to high temperatures and pressures from metamorphic processes.

Traces of chromium give rubies their coveted deep red hue, ranging from light pinkish-red to a vibrant pigeon blood red.

Rubellite

Found in various locations worldwide, including Brazil, Madagascar, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Pakistan.

Belongs to the tourmaline group of minerals, formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks rich in lithium.

Manganese is responsible for the pink to purplish-red shades of rubellite, with some stones displaying a bicolor effect.

For centuries, the distinction between ruby gemstone and rubellite was blurry. Their similar color led to historical misconceptions, with some famous “ruby” pieces, like those in Russia’s Imperial Court jewelry, being later identified as rubellite.

Today, gemologists use advanced tools to differentiate these two gems. While both valued for clarity and color saturation, the specific inclusions within the stones offer a giveaway. Rubies often contain needle-like inclusions called “silk,” while rubellites might possess unique web-like patterns of fluid inclusions known as “trichites.”

Ruby vs Rubellite: Color

Differentiating between ruby and rubellite primarily comes down to their colors. Ruby is known for its deep red hue, which is often described as a vibrant, intense red color. This color is caused by the presence of chromium in the gemstone. On the other hand, rubellite showcases a range of red hues that can include pinkish-red, purplish-red, or even reddish-orange tones. The key distinction is that rubellite may exhibit a more varied spectrum of red shades compared to the consistent deep red of ruby.

Additionally, rubellite is a type of tourmaline, while ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum. This fundamental difference in their mineral composition further emphasizes their uniqueness and helps gemologists and enthusiasts distinguish between the two gemstones.

Ruby vs Rubellite: Physical Properties

Color

Ruby: Ruby is known for its vibrant red color, which can range from purplish-red to orangy-red hues. The color is caused by the presence of chromium in the gemstone’s chemical composition.

Rubellite: Rubellite is a variety of tourmaline and exhibits shades of pinkish-red to purplish-red colors. The color is attributed to the presence of manganese and sometimes iron in the gemstone’s structure.

Crystal System

Ruby: Ruby belongs to the hexagonal crystal system and crystallizes in the trigonal system.

Rubellite: Rubellite, like all tourmalines, belongs to the trigonal crystal system and crystallizes in the ditrigonal-pyramidal class.

Hardness

Ruby: Ruby has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones after diamond.

Rubellite: Rubellite has a hardness of 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale, which is lower than ruby but still relatively high compared to other gemstones.

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Cleavage

Ruby: Ruby has no distinct cleavage planes, which means it tends to fracture irregularly rather than cleave along specific planes.

Rubellite: Rubellite displays imperfect cleavage planes parallel to the prism faces, which can sometimes be problematic during cutting and setting.

Refractive Index:

Ruby: Ruby has a refractive index ranging from 1.76 to 1.78, which contributes to its brilliance and dispersion.

Rubellite: Rubellite has a refractive index ranging from 1.62 to 1.64, which is lower than that of ruby, resulting in slightly less brilliance.

Specific Gravity

Ruby: Ruby has a specific gravity (density) of around 4.0, making it a relatively dense gemstone.

Rubellite: Rubellite has a specific gravity ranging from 3.0 to 3.2, which is lower than that of ruby.

Optical Properties

Ruby: Ruby is singly refractive, meaning it has a single refractive index for all directions of light propagation. It exhibits a strong red fluorescence under ultraviolet light.

Rubellite: Rubellite is doubly refractive, exhibiting two refractive indices due to its anisotropic nature. It may display a faint reddish fluorescence under ultraviolet light.

Ruby vs Rubellite: Treatment

When it comes to treatments, ruby and rubellite can undergo different processes to enhance their appearance or properties.

Ruby, being a corundum variety, is often treated to improve its color and clarity. One common treatment for rubies is heat treatment, where the gemstone is heated to high temperatures to enhance its color and remove any internal imperfections. This process is widely accepted in the gemstone industry and can significantly improve the overall quality and beauty of the ruby.

On the other hand, rubellite, being a type of tourmaline, may also undergo treatments to enhance its color or clarity. Heat treatment is sometimes applied to rubellite as well, especially to improve its pinkish-red or reddish-orange hues. However, it’s essential to note that not all rubellites are treated, and natural, untreated rubellites are highly valued by collectors and gemstone enthusiasts.

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Ruby vs Rubellite: Astrological Benefits

Ruby and rubellite are both varieties of the mineral corundum, but they have distinct properties and are believed to offer different astrological benefits. Here’s an in-depth exploration of the astrological significance of these two gemstones:

Ruby:

Ruby is the red variety of corundum and is considered one of the most precious gemstones in the world. In astrology, ruby is associated with the planet Mars and the zodiac sign Aries. It is believed to possess the following astrological benefits:

Courage and Confidence: Ruby is said to promote courage, confidence, and a strong will. It is believed to help individuals overcome fears and doubts, making them more assertive and decisive.

Passion and Energy: As a gemstone related to Mars, ruby is thought to ignite passion, desire, and energy within the wearer. It is said to enhance vitality, drive, and enthusiasm, making it beneficial for those who need motivation and determination.

Leadership and Success: Ruby is associated with leadership qualities, ambition, and success. It is believed to help individuals achieve their goals and attain positions of power and authority.

Emotional Balance: Despite its fiery energy, ruby is also thought to promote emotional balance and stability. It is said to help individuals control their emotions, especially anger and impulsiveness.

Protection: Ruby is considered a powerful protective stone, believed to ward off negativity, danger, and misfortune. It is often carried as a talisman for safety and security.

Rubellite:

Rubellite, also known as red tourmaline, is a variety of tourmaline that ranges in color from pinkish-red to purplish-red. In astrology, rubellite is associated with the planet Mars and the zodiac signs Aries and Scorpio. Its astrological benefits include:

Passion and Desire: Like ruby, rubellite is believed to ignite passion, desire, and sensuality. It is thought to enhance romantic relationships and attract love and affection.

Emotional Healing: Rubellite is considered a powerful emotional healing stone. It is said to help individuals overcome emotional trauma, release negative emotions, and promote inner peace and stability.

Creativity and Inspiration: Rubellite is associated with creativity, imagination, and inspiration. It is believed to stimulate artistic expression, enhance intuition, and promote creative thinking.

Self-Confidence: This gemstone is thought to boost self-confidence, self-esteem, and self-worth. It is said to help individuals overcome insecurities and embrace their true selves.

Protection: Like ruby, rubellite is considered a protective stone, believed to shield the wearer from negative energies, psychic attacks, and environmental pollutants.

While ruby and rubellite share some astrological benefits due to their association with Mars, they also have distinct properties. Ruby is often associated with courage, leadership, and ambition, while rubellite is more focused on emotional healing, creativity, and self-confidence.

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Ruby vs Rubellite: Affordability & Popularity

Ruby

Affordability: Rubies are one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones, primarily due to their rarity, intense red color, and durability. High-quality rubies can command exceptionally high prices, especially for larger stones with excellent clarity and color consistency. As a result, rubies are often considered to be among the more expensive gemstones on the market.

Popularity: Rubies have a long history of popularity and desirability. They are often associated with passion, love, and vitality, making them a popular choice for engagement rings, anniversary gifts, and other special occasions. Rubies have been prized by royalty and nobility throughout history, further adding to their allure and prestige.

Rubellite

Affordability: Rubellite is a variety of tourmaline that exhibits a rich, vibrant red to pinkish-red color. Compared to rubies, rubellites are generally more affordable, making them an attractive option for individuals seeking a red gemstone without the high price tag associated with rubies.

Popularity: Rubellite has gained popularity in recent years as more people have become aware of its unique color and affordability. It is often used as an alternative to ruby in jewelry, particularly in pieces where a large, eye-catching gemstone is desired without the cost constraints of a high-quality ruby.

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