Where is Ruby found?
Corundum (Al₂O₃) with Chromium impurities
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Open the appRuby occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Ruby
Myanmar (Burma)
Historically the most important source, particularly the Mogok Valley, famous for producing the highly prized 'pigeon's blood' rubies found in marble deposits.
Thailand
Known for darker, brownish-red rubies, often found in basaltic host rocks. Chanthaburi and Trat provinces are key areas.
Sri Lanka
Produces a range of ruby colors, often lighter red to pinkish-red, found in alluvial deposits derived from metamorphic rocks.
Mozambique
A significant modern source, particularly the Montepuez deposit, producing high-quality rubies from amphibolite-hosted deposits.
Afghanistan
Historically known for rubies from the Jegdalek deposit, often found in marble.
Vietnam
Luc Yen and Quy Chau districts are known for rubies found in marble and alluvial deposits.
Tanzania
Various localities, including Winza and Longido, produce rubies, often with a purplish tint, from metamorphic rocks.
Collecting tips
- Look for associated minerals. In primary deposits, rubies are often found with minerals like spinel, phlogopite, calcite, graphite, and various feldspars, depending on the host rock.
- Check alluvial deposits. Due to its high specific gravity and hardness, ruby often concentrates in riverbeds and ancient placer deposits. Look for gravels containing heavy minerals.
- Examine host rocks. In metamorphic terrains, search for marble, gneiss, or schist outcrops. In igneous settings, look for basalt or syenite. Ruby crystals may be embedded within these rocks.
- Use a loupe or magnifying glass. Rubies often have characteristic inclusions (e.g., rutile needles 'silk', growth zoning, fingerprints) that can help distinguish them from imitations or other red minerals.
- Test hardness. Ruby is very hard (9 on Mohs scale). It will scratch quartz (7) and feldspar (6-6.5). This is a key differentiating factor from many other red minerals.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Red (pinkish-red to deep red)
- Luster:
- Vitreous to adamantine
- Streak:
- White
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