Pair of faceted free-form rubies (~11–14 mm), natural red corundum with characteristic inclusions. Each pair follows the morphology of the original crystal without forcing a calibrated shape. Material sourced from a wholesale gem market.
Item details
| Mineral |
Ruby (corundum, Al₂O₃, red variety due to Cr³⁺) |
| Dimensions |
~11–14 mm on major axis per variant (tolerance ±0.5 mm) |
| Shape and back |
Faceted free-form — irregular morphology according to crystal, multiple external facets |
| Finish |
Faceted cut, adamantine luster |
| Hardness |
9 Mohs — one of the hardest minerals; suitable for any type of jewelry |
| Origin |
Madagascar or Mozambique — material acquired from a wholesale lapidary market |
| Treatment |
No detectable treatment. Statement based on observation; no formal gemological certification. |
| Item type |
Available in 6 variants in pairs — each pair is a unique set |
This particular piece
The faceted free-form of the ruby respects the structure of the original crystal instead of forcing it into a standard shape. The facets are oriented to maximize the red color —the most valued property in this gemstone— instead of maximizing white brilliance.
Natural inclusions —rutile needles, growth zones, mineral particles— are witnesses of the crystal's formation and a sign of authenticity. Their presence does not compromise the structural integrity of the piece given its Mohs 9 hardness.
Why ruby is red: chromium in the corundum lattice
Pure corundum (Al₂O₃) is colorless — sapphire and ruby are the same mineral species differentiated by the trace elements that substituted aluminum during growth.
What setting it works for
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Bezel-set or prong-set earrings (925 silver or gold) — the free-form makes each earring a micro-sculpture; the pair does not need perfect symmetry to work well in asymmetrical designer earrings.
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Solitaire ring with custom setting — Mohs 9 makes ruby suitable for daily wear in any type of setting; the free-form requires a setting adapted to the specific silhouette of each piece.
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Wire wrap — the irregular shape facilitates wire grip; technique compatible with this morphology.
Ruby in lapidary tradition
Ruby has been considered the most valuable gemstone in multiple historical traditions.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice or a substitute for professional care.
How to recognize genuine ruby
Natural ruby has adamantine luster and typical corundum inclusions: rutile needles (silk), curved growth zones, and parallel mineral particles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it natural or synthetic ruby?
Material sourced from a wholesale gem catalog —declared as natural ruby. No formal gemological certificate. For high commercial value pieces requiring laboratory certification (GIA, Gübelin, AGL), the piece must be sent for analysis once purchased.
Is it heat treated?
No detectable treatment. Heat treatment is standard in the industry to improve clarity and color in rubies, but in these pieces, typical indicators (fusion of inclusions, partially
Are the two rubies in the pair identical?
They are not calibrated — each free-form piece follows its own crystal. Within the same pair there is color consistency and approximate size, but the exact morphology differs. This is intentional and defines the artisanal character of the piece.
Is it suitable for daily wear rings?
Yes —Mohs 9 makes ruby one of the most scratch-resistant gemstones. A bezel setting is still recommended to protect the edge of the free-form from side impacts.
Are the dimensions exact?
~11–14 mm on the major axis with a tolerance of ±0.5 mm. The free-form implies that each dimension is approximate and unique to that specific pair.
How is it cared for?
Warm water with neutral soap. Ruby tolerates ultrasonic cleaners in pieces without open inclusions. Avoid steam cleaner if visible fractures are present. More on jewelry care.
See also: cabochon collection.
