Rubellite Gemstone

Q: Is rubellite a real ruby?

A: Rubellite is a variety of the mineral tourmaline and is known for its red to pink color. While rubellite and ruby both have a red color, they are different minerals with distinct physical and chemical properties. Ruby is a variety of the mineral corundum, while rubellite is a variety of tourmaline. Additionally, rubies are typically found in different locations than rubellites and have different inclusions, textures, and crystal formations. The value of rubellite and ruby also varies greatly, with ruby being generally more valuable due to its scarcity and high demand.

Q: What is the pricing of rubellite?

A: The price of rubellite can vary greatly depending on several factors, including:

Color: The shade and intensity of the red to pink color can greatly affect the price of rubellite. Deep, vibrant colors are generally more valuable and command higher prices.

Clarity: Rubellite is typically found with inclusions, so clarity is an important factor in determining its value. Stones with fewer or less noticeable inclusions are generally more valuable.

Cut: The way the stone is cut can also affect its value. Well-cut stones with good symmetry and proportion will typically command higher prices.

Carat Weight: The size of the stone also affects its price, with larger stones generally being more valuable.

Location of the Mine: The location of the mine where the rubellite was sourced can also impact its price. Rubellites from certain mines may be more desirable and command higher prices.

Q: What is the famous rubellite?

A: Caesar's Ruby is a historical jewel that eventually turned out not to be a ruby at all but a rubellite tourmaline. Caesar's Ruby is a piece of jewellery well known to anyone with a special interest in the history of the Russian and Swedish Crown Jewels. 

Q: How do you clean a rubellite?

A: As rubellite is simply the dark pink to red variety of tourmaline, much like rubies are the dark pink to red variety of sapphires, they should be cleaned similar to the way in which tourmalines are cleaned. This is through the simple use of water, mild detergent, and a brush.

Q: Does rubellite glow?

A: Yes, rubellite can exhibit a glowing effect known as "pleochroism." This is a property of certain minerals where they exhibit different colors when viewed from different angles, due to the way light passes through the crystal structure. In rubellite, this can result in the stone appearing to change color when rotated or viewed from different angles, which can create a glowing or sparkling effect.

The exact degree of pleochroism can vary depending on the specific rubellite, but this property is often considered an attractive feature as it can enhance the visual appeal of the stone. Pleochroism can also impact the way a rubellite is cut and polished, as the cutter must consider the orientation of the crystal to ensure that the stone is cut to maximize its color and shine.

Q: What is the other name for rubellite?

A: Rubellite is sometimes referred to by other names, including:

Red tourmaline: Rubellite is a variety of the mineral tourmaline and is often referred to as "red tourmaline" due to its reddish color.

Pink tourmaline: Some rubellites exhibit a more pinkish color and can also be referred to as "pink tourmaline."

Verdelite: This name is also sometimes used to refer to green tourmaline, another variety of the mineral tourmaline.

Elbaite: This is the name of the mineral species to which both rubellite and other tourmaline varieties belong.

Q: What is the history of rubellite?

A: The history of rubellite dates back to ancient times, when this beautiful red to pink gemstone was prized for its beauty and rarity. The exact origin of the name "rubellite" is not known, but it is thought to derive from the Latin word "rubellus," meaning red.

Throughout history, rubellite has been used in jewelry and other decorative objects, often as a symbol of wealth and power. In ancient civilizations, rubellite benefits in providing special powers and properties that could bring good luck, protect against harm, and improve one's emotional well-being.