Red Obsession: Why Rubies Still Reign Supreme in Fine Jewellery
There are few gemstones in the world that stir the soul quite like a ruby. As a jewellery designer and GIA trained gemologist based in Hong Kong, my obsession with rubies is anything but quiet. These fiery stones aren’t just beautiful, they’re fierce, storied and seductive. Whether it’s a rare no-heat Burmese ruby or a smouldering pinkish-red Mozambique ruby set in a bold pair of studs, rubies command attention.
The most expensive ruby ever sold at auction was the Sunrise Ruby, a 25.59ct Burmese ruby, sold in 2015 for a staggering 30.42 million US Dollars.
The Importance of Ruby Origin: Why Burma Still Leads the Pack
In the world of rubies, origin matters. The most coveted rubies in existence hail from the legendary Mogok mines of Burma (now Myanmar). These mines have produced rubies with a richness and glow that seem to come from within, gems so saturated and alive they appear lit by an inner flame that fluoresce brightly under UV light. At Valentina Fine Jewellery, we work with no-heat Burmese rubies, the holy grail of ruby collectors. These stones are untreated, unenhanced, coveted and unapologetically spectacular.
That said, origin isn’t just about prestige. It tells a story. A ruby from Burma whispers of ancient empires and regal treasures. A ruby from Mozambique, with its bold saturation tells a different, but no less compelling. We love both.
Ruby Colour by Country: The Pigeon Blood Factor
Let’s talk colour, because when it comes to rubies, colour is everything. Burmese rubies, especially those labelled "pigeon blood," exhibit a pure, vivid red with a hint of blue undertone. It's a colour that grabs your attention. Intense. Velvety. Almost supernatural.
Mozambique rubies, by contrast, tend to skew a little pinker or purpler, and often have slightly less fluorescence. No less captivating, especially in modern designs like ruby studs, cluster earrings or even statement rings. We often set them in cooler-toned metals like platinum or white gold for contrast.
Whether you’re after the mythical pigeon blood hue or a vibrant crimson glow, the world of ruby colour is rich and deeply addictive. With our strong network of ruby suppliers, we can find and source that special ruby for you.
The Ruby Birthstone: July Babies, You Win
If you're born in July, congratulations - you hit the birthstone jackpot. Rubies have long been associated with passion, protection and power. In ancient cultures, they were worn as talismans in battle, believed to protect warriors from harm and grant invincibility. That red glow? It wasn’t just beautiful - it was magic.
Today, ruby jewellery remains one of the most powerful gifts to mark milestones: engagements, anniversaries and new beginnings. It’s never just a stone. It’s a statement.
Ruby Fluorescence: That Inner Fire
One of the most unique features of a fine ruby - especially those from Burma, is fluorescence. When exposed to UV light, these stones glow. Not in a gimmicky way, but in an otherworldly, can't-look-away sort of way. It’s this trait that gives the best Burmese rubies their almost unexplainable "life."
That’s why our Burma no-heat ruby tennis necklace in 18k rose gold is such a showstopper. Every ruby dances with internal fire. Set against the warmth of rose gold, the effect is almost hypnotic. Pair it with our matching flexible ruby bangle, also crafted in 18k rose gold with no-heat Burmese stones, and you have a power pairing that turns heads and raises pulses.
Our Favourite Ruby Pieces: Fierce, Rare and Ready to Wear
From high-jewellery heirlooms to bold modern designs, our ruby collection covers all the bases:
No-heat Burma ruby eternity rings: timeless elegance with unmatched fire
Ruby and rose-cut diamond drop cluster earrings: vintage glamour meets modern drama for those who love a coordinated jewellery set that screams sophistication - we've got a matching ring too!
Each piece is handcrafted with a singular focus: to showcase the rubies in all their glory. We don’t dilute. We don’t distract. We let the stones speak for themselves - loudly.
Whether you're a collector, a July baby, or simply someone who can't resist the magnetic pull of a perfect red stone, rubies are a lifelong love affair. At Valentina Fine Jewellery, we don’t just sell rubies - we live them.
Ready to find your forever piece? Explore our ruby collection here or contact us today to create that special bespoke piece you've always dreamed about.
