How to Tell if Your Ruby is Natural or Synthetic

Ruby is a precious gemstone that has been prized for its beauty and rarity for centuries. As with any valuable item, there are always those who seek to replicate it artificially. Synthetic rubies have been created in laboratories for many years and have become increasingly sophisticated over time. While synthetic rubies can be just as beautiful as natural ones, they are often sold at a lower price. Therefore, it is important to know how to tell if your ruby is natural or synthetic before making any purchase. In this article, we will discuss how to tell the difference between natural and synthetic rubies.

1. Check the color

The color of a ruby is an excellent indicator of its authenticity. Natural rubies come in a range of shades, from a deep blood red to a pinkish hue. They also have natural imperfections, which can give them a slightly cloudy appearance. On the other hand, synthetic rubies are often too perfect in color and clarity. They might also be too uniform and have no visible imperfections. This is because they are created in a laboratory with exacting precision.

2. Check the clarity

Another way to tell a natural ruby from a synthetic one is by looking at the clarity of the stone. Natural rubies can have inclusions, which are small impurities within the crystal structure. Synthetic rubies, on the other hand, are often completely free of inclusions. Any inclusions in a synthetic ruby are usually created intentionally to make it appear more natural.

3. Look for inclusions

As mentioned above, natural rubies often have inclusions. These can be small fractures or other impurities that are naturally occurring within the crystal structure. Synthetic rubies do not have these natural imperfections. However, there are some synthetic rubies that are created using a process called flux-melt which can create inclusions. Still, these inclusions are usually more mechanical in nature and do not resemble those in natural rubies.

4. Ask for a certified appraisal

If you are still unsure if your ruby is natural or synthetic, the best thing to do is to ask for a certified appraisal. A reputable gemologist can look at your ruby and determine if it is natural or synthetic. They will also be able to give you an estimate of the value of your ruby based on its size, color, clarity, and other factors.

5. Check the weight

Finally, the weight of a ruby can also be an indicator of its authenticity. Natural rubies are denser than synthetic ones and will, therefore, weigh more for a given size. Synthetic rubies are often made with a lower weight than natural ones to keep costs down. So, if your ruby is unusually lightweight, it may be a synthetic one.

In conclusion, there are several ways to tell if your ruby is natural or synthetic. The best way to confirm your ruby's authenticity is by asking for a certified appraisal from a reputable gemologist. However, you can also look at the color, clarity, inclusions, and weight of your ruby to give you an idea of its authenticity.