A ruby is a stunning red gemstone, widely admired for its intense color and durability. Belonging to the corundum family, rubies are second only to diamonds in hardness, rating 9 on the Mohs scale. The rich red color is caused by traces of chromium, with the finest rubies displaying a vibrant "pigeon blood" hue. Found primarily in regions like Myanmar, Thailand, and Madagascar, rubies have been highly valued for centuries, symbolizing love, courage, and vitality. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, rubies are also prized for their historical significance, often worn by royalty and used in sacred artifacts. Rubies are typically cut into shapes such as oval, cushion, and emerald cuts to enhance their natural brilliance and vivid color.
