Ruby is one of the most prized and iconic gemstones, known for its vibrant red color, which can range from a deep, rich crimson to a lighter, more vivid red. The red color comes from trace amounts of chromium within the crystal structure, and the most sought-after rubies are those with a deep "pigeon blood" red, which is a pure, intense red with a hint of blue.

Rubies belong to the corundum mineral family, the same family as sapphires, and they are exceptionally durable, scoring 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes them ideal for jewelry that is worn regularly, like engagement rings, as they are resistant to scratching and damage.

Rubies are often found with natural inclusions, known as "silk," which can actually enhance their beauty and add to their value, as long as the inclusions don’t detract from the stone's clarity too much. The most famous rubies are those from Myanmar (formerly Burma), but they are also mined in other regions, including Thailand, Sri Lanka, and East Africa.

Rubies have long been symbols of passion, love, and power. Their vivid red hue has made them a popular choice for royal crowns and jewelry throughout history. When properly cut, rubies can exhibit an impressive brilliance, making them a truly stunning and timeless gemstone.