Raw Ruby Crystal- Tanzania
This is a representative picture of the Ruby Crystals of this size that we have. They measure approximately 1/2-1" in diameter with some being taller and skinnier, some shorter and wider. All of them are natural crystals with a pink-purple color and nice sheen. It's a great way to get a Ruby in its natural form instead of in a piece of jewelry - and the price is safer too. We will pick the piece that is in our humble opinion the best available at the time of purchase.
Dimensions: ~ 1/2-1" in diameter, ~2-4 grams each
Location: Tanzania
Ruby is a rare gemstone variety of Corundum, the other famous variety being Sapphire. Corundum by itself is colorless, being made of only aluminum and oxygen, but Ruby is distinguished by its rich red color. This comes from small amounts of chromium replacing some of the aluminum.
Natural Ruby often has tiny needle-like crystals of Rutile and other inclusions, which helps distinguish them from synthetics and imitations. Gem-variety Ruby that is translucent enough to cut gemstones out of is exceedingly rare, and Ruby is still considered one of the four traditional precious stones. In addition to its rarity, it earned this distinction by its hardness, with only Diamond and Moissanite being harder.