Thai Ruby, also known as Siamese Ruby, is a precious gemstone that originates from Thailand. Its deep red hue and high clarity make it one of the most sought-after rubies in the world. This gemstone has been mined in Thailand for centuries and has been highly regarded by royalty and nobles throughout history.
The Thai Ruby is believed to possess unique qualities that distinguish it from other rubies. It is said to have a higher density, which gives it greater durability and resistance to scratches. Additionally, its color is thought to be more intense than other rubies due to the presence of chromium and iron within its crystal structure. In this article, we will learn more about the characteristics, mining location, value and current market trends of Thailand rubies.
- History of Thai Ruby
- Characteristics of Thai Ruby
- Mining Source and Process
- Are Thai rubies valuable?
- Current Market Trends
- Care and Maintenance
- Conclusion
1History of Thai Ruby
Uncut Thai Ruby in Chanthaburi from Moontown
The Thai Ruby gemstone has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times. This precious gemstone is highly valued for its vibrant red color, which is considered one of the most desirable hues in the gem world. The first recorded use of Thai Ruby was during the reign of King Rama III in the early 1800s when he commissioned the mining of rubies from the Bo Ploi mines.
The Bo Ploi mines were located in Chanthaburi Province, an area which became known as the “City of Gems.” The region was named after a river that flows through it called Chanthaburi, meaning “gem river” in Thai. The discovery and extraction of these rubies brought wealth and prosperity to Thailand at a time when it was struggling economically. As such, Thai Ruby gemstones have been considered symbols of power and wealth throughout history.
2Characteristics of Thai Ruby
Thai ruby is one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world, prized for its rich color, fluorescence and brilliance. They belong to the corundum mineral species and known for its intense red color, which is caused by the presence of chromium and iron in its chemical composition. The stone’s excellent hardness and durability are also noteworthy features that make it ideal for everyday wear. It ranks 9 on Mohs scale of hardness, making it one of the hardest stones available.
Moreover, the fluorescence of Thai Ruby occurs due to the interaction between ultraviolet light and certain impurities present in the gemstone. When exposed to UV radiation, these impurities emit visible light, causing the ruby to glow with an intense red hue. This unique property makes Thai Ruby stand out from other gems like sapphires or emeralds, which do not fluoresce under UV light.
In terms of appearance, Thai ruby has a high level of transparency and excellent clarity. Its crystal structure is hexagonal and often contains needle-like inclusions known as rutile silk. These inclusions can affect the gemstone’s transparency but they also give it a distinct character that is highly valued by collectors and buyers alike. Typically, Thai rubies are cut into faceted shapes to enhance their natural beauty and showcase their stunning color and excellent clarity.
3mining source and process
The mining place of Thai Ruby gemstone has been a topic point of interest for many years. While the gemstone is named after Thailand, it is not actually found in the country. Instead, most Thai Ruby gemstones are mined in neighboring Cambodia. The discovery of this beautiful stone was made by chance when ruby miners were exploring new areas to mine other precious gems. Moreover, Myanmar is another notorious Asian country for fine Burma Ruby production.
The place where these Thai rubies are found is located in the southeastern part of Cambodia, near the border with Vietnam. The region is known for its high temperatures and humid climate, which makes it an ideal environment for the formation of ruby deposits. Heat and pressure from deep within the earth create perfect conditions for ruby crystals to form over millions of years.
The ruby mining and processing of Thai Ruby gemstone is a fascinating one, with centuries of history behind it. The place where these precious stones are found is deep within the earth’s crust, where volcanic activity has forced them up to the surface over millions of years. Once they are discovered, miners must extract them from the rock using specialized tools and techniques that have been perfected over generations.
After being extracted, rubies go through a heat treatment process in order to enhance their color and clarity. This process involves heating the gemstones at high temperatures for several hours or days until they reach their desired hue and level of transparency. The final result is a stunningly beautiful stone that can be used in jewelry or sold on its own as an investment piece.
4Are Thai rubies valuable?
Natural Thai Ruby from Bangkok Gem and Jewelry Fair
Thailand, known for its rich culture, delicious food, and vibrant traditions, also boasts a renowned gemstone industry. The value and price of Thai Ruby gemstones have been a topic of great interest among jewelry enthusiasts and collectors for many years. These precious stones are renowned for their deep red color and desirable clarity, making them one of the most sought-after gems globally.
The cost of Thai Ruby gemstones can vary depending on several factors such as size, color intensity, cut quality, and overall rarity. In general, larger stones with more saturated colors command higher prices than smaller or paler rubies. Additionally, rare colors such as pink ruby or orange-red ruby can fetch even higher prices due to their scarcity.
Despite fluctuations in the market, Thai Rubies have maintained a consistent value over time due to their exceptional beauty and enduring popularity.
5Current Market Trends
Elegant Siamese Ruby from Petchchompoo Jewelry
Recently, the market trend of Thai ruby gemstone has been seeing a steady rise. Investors are taking notice of the unique beauty and rarity of these precious stones, making them an attractive investment option.
A review of the current market shows that Thai ruby prices have increased by 20% over the last decade. This growth is fueled by rising demand from international buyers who recognize the superior quality and color of Thai rubies compared to those found in other regions. Additionally, stricter regulations on mining practices have limited the supply of natural rubies, further driving up prices.
Investors looking to diversify their portfolios should take good note of this growing trend. With its strong performance and increasing popularity among collectors and enthusiasts alike, investing in Thai rubies may prove to be a good and wise financial decision for those seeking long-term stability and value appreciation.
6Care and Maintenance
Thai ruby gemstones are known for their stunning deep red color and exceptional hardness, making them an ideal choice for jewelry. However, like all gemstones, they require proper care and maintenance in order to retain their brilliance over time. Here are some tips on how to keep your Thai ruby gemstone looking its best.
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Firstly, avoid exposing your Thai ruby to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures. Heat can cause the stone to crack or lose its color while chemicals can damage and dull the surface of the stone.
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Secondly, always store your gemstone separately from other pieces of jewelry in a soft cloth pouch or box to prevent scratches.
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Thirdly, clean your Thai ruby regularly using mild soap and warm water with a soft-bristled brush.
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Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners as they can damage the surface of the stone.
7Conclusion
In conclusion, the Thai ruby is a true gemstone wonder that has captivated the hearts of many over the centuries. Its radiant beauty and rarity have made it a highly sought-after gemstone among collectors and jewelry enthusiasts. From its unique color to its cultural significance, this stone truly stands out in the area of precious gems. As we continue to learn how to marvel at and appreciate the Thai ruby, let us also take care to preserve its natural habitat and ensure its sustainability for generations to come. Let us celebrate this enchanting gemstone as a symbol of Thailand’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
