Ruby

Often described as the royal gem, it has been prized by kings and queens for ever. The most revered gems historically have come from Burma ( now called Myanmar). Much has been written about the Valley of Gems, in Mogok, found in Northern Burma. The late Dr. Gubelin, possibly the worlds most famous gemmologist, spent many trips to this locale, documenting the geology of the area, acquiring the knowledge to be in a position to determine the source of rubies long before most gemologists of his time were doing this legwork.

Today this area is a bustling city of miners and gem dealers. As the country has been under the fist of an oppressive communist military govt. for many decades, westerners have allways been treated with suspicion and permission to visit the area has been granted rarely. The gems find their way out primarily through govt. sponsored auctions in the capital Rangoon. Certainly smuggling occurs as the risk-reward is taken on by optimistic dealers. Bangkok is the center of the colored stone market, with Thai dealers acquiring most of the finest gems emmanating from Mogok. From here they find their way into the various dealers and jewelers hands, to come onto the market. The finest gems are usually snapped up by dealers, knowing exactly where they are going to sell them. Private collectors are offered these before the general public ever/if at all ever sees them.

Bangkok is the world's center of ruby dealers, with much of the production of Thailand & recently Vietnam's ruby mines also joining the supply line to the world. Good quality ruby in 2-3ct sizes is quite readily available, over 5cts the quality quickly goes downhill, with the exception of a few high quality stones which are fetching quite strong prices due to the rarity.

As a durable gem, ruby is a perfect stone for daily wear in a ring, enhanced by white diamonds, many brides will choose a high quality ruby over a diamond, due to immense rarity and sheer beauty.