When it comes to choosing between rubies and diamonds, it’s like picking between a passionate romance and a timeless classic—each has its own charm. Rubies and diamonds are renowned for their stunning beauty and exceptional qualities, making them fine choices for jewelry lovers. While rubies are the July birthstone, diamonds are the birthstone for the month of April. However, these are not the only differences between the two.
Whether you’re drawn to the fiery allure of a ruby or the scintillating brilliance of a diamond stone, this ruby vs diamond comparison guide will help you understand the key differences between the two. So if you’re planning to buy diamond jewelry for women, but are also tempted by the vibrant beauty of ruby, then we will help you pick the gemstone that suits your style. Dive in and find out: Is ruby rarer than a diamond or not.
Ruby vs. Diamond: What’s the Difference?
Are you drawn to the rich depth of ruby stones or the sparkling allure of diamonds? If you’re torn between the two, take a moment to explore the differences between them. Understanding what makes each one unique will help you decide you’re looking to shop ruby jewelry or styles dressed with diamonds.
Here are the key factors to consider:
1. Composition: Diamonds are made entirely of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice, which gives them that unbeatable hardness and beautiful sparkle. It’s this simple yet unique composition that makes diamonds so special. Rubies, on the other hand, are made of aluminum oxide (corundum) with a touch of chromium, which gives them their stunning red color. Interestingly, their color can change a bit depending on the amount of iron they contain!
2. Hardness and Durability: Diamonds, rated 10 on the Mohs scale, are the hardest substances on Earth. This exceptional hardness makes them highly resistant to scratching and ideal for everyday wear. Rubies, rated 9 on the Mohs scale, are also extremely durable but are about 40% softer than diamonds. While rubies can withstand daily wear and tear, they are more susceptible to scratches and damage than diamonds.
3. Luster: Diamonds have the highest possible luster, described as adamantine, giving them their incredible sparkle. While rubies do not exhibit the same level of sparkle as diamonds, their rich color and internal glow make them equally captivating.
4. Cut: The cut of a gemstone plays a huge role in how it looks and how much it sparkles. Diamonds are cut to really bring out their shine, with popular cuts such as round, princess, cushion and emerald cut—each one showing off a different balance of brilliance, fire and sparkle. On the other hand, rubies are usually cut to highlight their beautiful color more than their shine. Some common ruby cuts include oval, cushion cut and round, each one emphasizing that stunning red hue.
5. Color: Diamonds can range from completely colorless to having a slight tint—with D-color diamonds being the most flawless and highly prized. Fancy-colored diamonds, such as reds, pinks and blues, are super rare and can be incredibly valuable. Rubies, on the other hand, have that rich red color because of iron or chromium, and the shade can get even deeper with higher amounts of these elements. The most valuable rubies are those pure, vibrant red ones—often called “pigeon blood” red. When it comes to rubies, the depth of color and the overall hue are key factors in determining their quality and price.
6. Clarity: Diamond clarity ranges from flawless (FL) to obvious inclusions (I3), with flawless diamonds being extremely rare and highly valued. Most rubies have inclusions, that’s why ‘flawless’ rubies are immensely rare and highly valued. The best clarity grade for rubies is ‘eye-clean,’ meaning no inclusions are visible to the naked eye. Inclusions in rubies, known as “silk,” can actually enhance the gem’s appearance by diffusing light and adding a soft glow.
7. Versatility: Diamonds are super versatile because their lack of color makes them easy to pair with pretty much anything. Whether set in gold, platinum or silver, diamonds just work with any look, which is why they’re a go-to for engagement rings, wedding bands and pretty much every type of jewelry. On the other hand, rubies have that stunning rich red color, which looks amazing with yellow gold, rose gold or platinum. They’re versatile too, but they’ve got their own unique vibe, making them a perfect choice for all kinds of jewelry styles!
Ruby vs. Diamond: Rarity
So, how rare is ruby compared to diamonds? Well, rubies definitely hold their own against diamonds. While diamonds might be more common in the market, high-quality diamonds are actually pretty rare, especially when you’re talking about perfect, flawless stones. On the other hand, rubies are much rarer, and the finest ones—those deep, vibrant red beauties can often cost more than diamonds.
To answer the question of why is a ruby so rare, it is because of the very specific conditions required for their formation—high pressure, low silica and the right amount of chromium to give them that gorgeous red color. And let’s be honest, most rubies have inclusions, so finding a flawless one is super rare! Throw in their historical significance and high demand, and it’s easy to see why rubies are such sought-after treasures. They truly stand out in the world of gemstones!
Ruby vs. Diamond: Price Comparison
Rare rubies are generally more expensive than diamonds due to their scarcity. However, diamonds cost more on average because they are rated on the 4C’s: color, cut, clarity and carat. For rubies, quality and color determine the cost. For instance, a one-carat ruby may range from $1,000 to $1,000,000, while a one-carat diamond may cost between $2,000 and $14,000.
It’s important to note that rubies are often treated to enhance their color and clarity, which can affect their value. Heat treatment is a common practice that improves the appearance of rubies but may also lower their price compared to untreated stones. Diamonds, on the other hand, are frequently graded and certified by reputable institutions like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), providing a consistent basis for pricing.
Ruby vs. Diamond: Which One Should You Choose?
Both rubies and diamonds are precious and valuable stones. When choosing between these two, weigh the ruby vs. diamond pros and cons and consider their varying qualities such as durability, clarity, versatility and more to find the right gemstone that suits your taste and lifestyle. Rubies are perfect if you appreciate bold, passionate colors and historical significance, while diamonds offer unparalleled brilliance and timeless elegance.
Moreover, both these gemstones are symbolic, making them perfect for meaningful rings. Rubies symbolize love, passion and power, while diamonds represent strength and eternal love. Based on what resonates with you, you can explore Angara’s stunning collection of diamond and ruby engagement rings to find the one for you. These gorgeous rings are customizable, and you also have the option of free engraving to add a heartfelt message for your sweetheart. Go ahead, explore the collection and shop your favorites now.
For more information on special gemstones, you can also consider giving this a read: Which are the rarest gemstones?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Are rubies rarer than diamonds?
Yes, rubies are rarer than diamonds. High-quality rubies, especially those with a vibrant, pure red color and excellent clarity, are extremely rare and highly sought after.
Q2. Which gemstone is harder?
Diamonds are the hardest known natural substance, rated 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Rubies, on the other hand, score 9 on the Mohs scale, which means they are softer than diamonds.
Q3. Are diamonds or rubies more popular for an engagement ring?
Diamonds are more popular for engagement rings due to their timeless appeal and brilliance, symbolizing eternal love and strength. However, rubies are becoming an increasingly popular choice if you’re seeking a bold and unique alternative.
