Rubies and red diamonds create a wonderful option for people who are looking for extremely rare options for their engagement rings. The richness of the red color made it one of the favorite choices of brides who love unique options for their engagement. Even though both of these stones offer a stunning red color, there are significant differences between them that make them distinct and unique. Therefore, it is important for you to know them before choosing red gemstones.
Rubies
Ruby is a beautiful gemstone that comes with vibrant red color. It is a member of the corundum family which also includes sapphires. Ruby is one of the rarest red gemstones found across the world.
Rubies are made up of corundum and the presence of chromium adds red color to them. The chromium content usually ranges from 0.1% to 3%, and the highest is 4%. The intensity of the color can vary based on the concentration of chromium. The pigeon blood red ruby is the most popular option among this gemstone. It attracts people with its intense red color, as this stone is also very difficult to find.
Red Diamonds
Red diamonds are extremely rare in comparison with rubies, hence, they come with hefty price tags. Red is the rarest color in diamonds, as even the faintest red diamonds can cost you a significant amount when compared to other colored diamonds and colorless diamonds. The price of red diamonds can greatly increase with the intensity of their color.
If you are wondering whether to choose red diamonds or rubies, we compare their features for your knowledge:
Hardness And Durability
Diamonds have the perfect score when it comes to hardness and durability. With a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale, no other gemstones can beat the durability of diamonds.
Even though rubies are not as hard as diamonds, they are still incredibly hard with a score of 9. Hence, these gemstones can also withstand everyday wear.
Clarity
Red diamonds are clearer than rubies. Rubies might have the presence of rutile which gave them a hazy appearance. Clear rubies are also available, but they are extremely rare.
Price
Red diamonds are insanely expensive. You will have to pay around 10 times more for a red diamond than the most exquisite ruby. Red ruby with better quality can be available for $90,000 per carat, on the other hand, a red diamond can cost $900,000 to $1,800,000 per carat.
Even though red lab grown diamonds are available, they are also very limited. Hence, these stones also have unbelievably higher price tags.
Therefore, when planning to get red rubies or red diamonds for your engagement ring, be aware that they can cost you a lot more than a fortune.