The Real Deal with Rubies: Colour, Clarity & Charm

What Makes a Ruby Special?
Rubies are one of the most loved gemstones in the world—and for good reason. With their deep red colour and beautiful shine, rubies have been a symbol of love and power for centuries. They are one of our absolute favourites here at Almagrove Jewellers. But what makes one ruby better than another? Let’s break it down in simple terms.

Colour Comes First
When it comes to rubies, colour is the most important thing. The best rubies have a rich, bright red colour—sometimes called "pigeon blood red." If a ruby is too dark or too light, it might not be worth as much. A great ruby should glow, even in soft light.

Clarity Matters Too
Like all gemstones, rubies can have tiny marks or lines inside them, called "inclusions." A few natural marks are fine, but if there are too many, they can affect the ruby's sparkle. Clearer rubies with fewer marks are more valuable—but perfect ones are very rare.

Cut and Shape
The way a ruby is cut can really bring it to life. A good cut helps the ruby shine and show off its colour. Rubies come in many shapes, like oval, round, and cushion cuts. The right cut can make even a smaller stone look full of fire.

Size and Rarity
Larger rubies are much harder to find than large diamonds. This means that even a small ruby of good quality can be quite valuable. If you ever see a big, clear, bright red ruby—you’re looking at something very special!

Where Do Rubies Come From?
Rubies are found in several parts of the world, including Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Mozambique. Each place produces rubies with slightly different colours and qualities. Some of the most famous and valuable rubies come from Myanmar. These rubies often have that rich, deep red colour that collectors love. Rubies from Mozambique are also becoming more popular for their beauty and size. No matter where they’re from, a good-quality ruby is always a treasure that will be passed down many lifetimes.

Rubies at Almagrove Jewellers
At Almagrove Jewellers in Southampton, we love rubies for their timeless beauty and rich history. Whether you’re looking for a vintage ruby ring, or something a little more modern, our handpicked collection is full of sparkle and story.