am Ruby. Celebrated in the Bible and in ancient Sanskrit writings as the most precious of all gemstones, I have been the prized possession of emperors and kings throughout the ages. My inner fire has been the inspiration for innumerable legends and myths, and to this day, no red gemstone can compare to my fiery, rich hues.

     Many people associate its brilliant crimson colors with passion and love, making Ruby an ideal choice for an engagement ring. Ruby is the red variety of the corundum mineral species, while all other colors of corundum are called Sapphire.
     Ruby is mined throughout Southeast Asia. While Thailand and Myanmar (Burma) produce exquisite examples of this gemstone that the ancient Sinhalese people called "Ratnaraj," the King of Gems.
     This most sought after gemstone is available in a range of red hues, from purplish and bluish red to orangish red. Ruby is readily available in sizes up to 2 carats, but larger sizes can be obtained. However, in its finest quality, any size Ruby can be scare. In readily available small sizes, Ruby makes an excellent accent gemstone because of its intense, pure red color.