Heating corundum crystals under controlled conditions can
improve or intensify their color. Heating can also remove
inclusions by causing them to dissolve, making them less
visible and improving the clarity of a gem.
Most rubies in the market today have been heated to improve
their color and clarity. This heat treatment is normal and
expected in the gem trade, but a seller should disclose the
treatment to a buyer in advance of a sale. Although treated
Rubies are the backbone of the commercial industry and in
jewelry, they should not be considered for serious
investment purposes.
Untreated Rubies for Investment Purposes
While most ruby undergoes heat treatment, there is a very small production of stones that remain unheated. In the
past, a majority of the unheated rubies came from Burma, presently Myanmar. However more recently, the
Montepuez region of Northeast Mozambique has become an important source of unheated gems.
According to one Primary Dealer, “There is always a challenge sourcing finer-quality material. Rubies are
probably the most difficult because of the way ruby is formed in nature; larger sizes are very rare.” Of the new
source, the Montepuez stones are some of the most beautiful in the world.” Many of these stones tend to be darker
with brownish or purplish undertones, however in the best-quality stones, the color can be bright and vibrant, even
rivaling Burmese gems. On the plus side,
there is a small, yet consistent supply of
unheated stones as sellers are able to offer
the rarity of an unheated ruby without the
price tag associated with fine Burmese
gems.”
Still, nothing surpasses fine Burma rubies.
Burma stones have a kind of inner glow
that no other source seems to have. Thai
and African stones typically can’t
compare. They tend to have a different
chemistry, usually meaning more iron that
impacts their color.”
Pricing Rubies – Top Burma
In the market today, Burma and Mozambique
dominate the ruby landscape. In terms of
pricing rubies, evaluating unheated gems of
similar quality, Burma ruby carries an
enormous premium over beautiful
Mozambique rubies, with the Burma ruby costing 200 percent to 300 percent more. Also, the vast majority
of the Rubies that are auctioned for top dollar at the big auction houses like Christies and Sotheby’s will be
Burmese Rubies.
At Phoenix Asset Consortium Ltd, we only deal with the top 1% of Natural Burmese Rubies in the world.
Prices for Natural Burmese rubies have continued to rise since the 2008 recession. It is important to
remember when investing in Rubies to look for only AGL or GIA certified gemstones. These two
certification are prerequisite when purchasing to give the best opportunity for Wealth Appreciation,
Preservation of Capital and liquidity purposes!
5
The “Crimson Garland” necklace by Etcetera
Photo courtesy of Christie’s
AGL Certificate for Ruby