Color Types for Ruby
A brief description of the color types for Ruby used at AGL Thai Laboratory Gemology.
Ruby Pigeon blood
A ruby is a pink to blood-red colored gemstone, a variety of the mineral corundum (aluminium oxide). The red color is caused mainly by the presence of the element chromium. Its name comes from ruber, Latin for red. The brightest and most valuable "red" called blood-red or "pigeon blood", commands a large premium over other rubies of similar quality.
Since red is the color of blood, it has historically been associated with sacrifice, danger and courage. Modern surveys in the United States and Europe show red is also the color most commonly associated with heat, activity, passion, sexuality, anger, love and joy. In China, India and many other Asian countries it is the color of symbolizing happiness and good fortune.
