0.55CT Top Quality Natural Ruby From Afghanistan

Weight:(0.55)CT

Stone:(Ruby)

Afghanistan Ruby is a lesser-known but increasingly recognized source of natural rubies, prized for their vibrant color and historical origins. Here's a detailed guide:

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### What is an Afghanistan Ruby?

Afghanistan rubies are natural corundum gemstones found primarily in the Badakhshan province, particularly near Jagdalek, which has been a ruby source for centuries. These rubies can be very high quality and are sometimes compared favorably to those from Myanmar (Burma) or Mozambique.

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### Key Characteristics

* Color: Deep red to purplish-red; sometimes described as “pigeon blood” red (a top-quality ruby color).

* Hardness: 9 on the Mohs scale (same as all rubies).

* Clarity: Often contains inclusions (which can confirm authenticity), but high-clarity stones do exist.

* Cut: Often rough or minimally cut due to limited local facilities.

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### Origin and Mining

* Jagdalek (near Kabul): The most famous ruby mining area in Afghanistan.

Mining is often *small-scale** and artisanal.

* Conflict and infrastructure issues limit widespread international trade, which sometimes makes Afghan rubies rare in global markets.

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### Value and Rarity

* High-quality stones from Afghanistan can command excellent prices, especially when untreated.

* Untreated rubies (no heat treatment) are especially valuable.

Still *underrated** compared to Burmese or Mozambique rubies, so can offer good value for collectors.

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### Metaphysical Properties (Spiritual Beliefs)

(Not scientifically proven)

Symbol of *love**, passion, and courage.

Associated with the *Heart Chakra**.

Believed to enhance *vitality**, confidence, and motivation.

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### Buying Tips

* Color is king: Rich red hues (especially with slight bluish or purplish tones) are most prized.

* Ask about treatment: Most rubies are heat-treated to enhance color and clarity — untreated stones are rarer and more valuable.

* Buy from reputable sources: Due to limited certification in Afghanistan, be sure any stone is certified by a respected gem lab (like GIA or IGI).

* Expect inclusions: Most natural rubies (especially from artisanal sources) will have internal features.

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### Cultural Significance

* Afghanistan’s ruby deposits have been known since antiquity.

Rubies from this region were once part of the *Silk Road trade**.

* Many Afghan rubies remain in local markets due to export challenges.

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Would you like help identifying an Afghanistan ruby, evaluating its quality, or advice on buying one? If you have a photo or description, I can also help assess what you’ve got.