It is much easier to tell if a ruby is real when it is raw and uncut, for a variety of reasons. Rubies like to grow in a flat, hexagonal shape. If the uncut gem shows this natural growth characteristic, along with parts of its host rock (marble or alkali basalt) still attached, it is very likely it is a real ruby.
Are uncut rubies worth anything?
Specimens like the star ruby on the right are very common, even with the star phenomena on it. ... Even cut, these examples are typically not worth $1 a carat, though fine rough like in the example below can be tens of thousands of dollars depending on the parcel.
How can you tell if a raw ruby is a raw garnet?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rcCkUS3D2Lw
How do you test a ruby gemstone at home?
Real rubies glow with a deep, vivid, almost "stoplight" red. Fake gems are often dull: they are "light, but not bright." If the gem is more of a dark red, then it may be garnet instead of a ruby. If it is a real ruby, however, know that darker stones are usually worth more than lighter stones.
Are raw rubies worth money?
Fine-quality rubies are some of the most expensive gemstones, with record prices over $1,000,000 per carat. However, rubies are also subjected to more treatments than almost any other gem.
What do rubies look like in their natural state?
Rubies like to grow in a flat, hexagonal shape. If the uncut gem shows this natural growth characteristic, along with parts of its host rock (marble or alkali basalt) still attached, it is very likely it is a real ruby. Rubies are also very heavy for their size.
How do you test a raw ruby?
Use the ruby to scratch a hard, smooth surface, such as a piece of glass. If there is a streak of red color left behind on the surface, then it is clear that your stone is a fake. A real ruby will never leave color in that way.
How can you tell if a raw ruby is real?
Inspecting the Ruby at Home. Tell by the color and the shine. Real rubies glow with a deep, vivid, almost "stoplight" red. Fake gems are often dull: they are "light, but not bright." If the gem is more of a dark red, then it may be garnet instead of a ruby.