Ruby Gemstone Colors

Pink

• Pink is the lightest color a ruby gemstone can be without being classified as a pink sapphire. Unfortunately, the distinction between a pink ruby and a pink sapphire is a topic of much discussion in the gem world since there is no bright line formulation. Whether or not a stone is classified as a ruby or sapphire does not matter much since a pink ruby is one of the least valuable rubies. The pink hue is a result of minimal traces of chromium and iron.

Dark Red

• One of the most vibrant color varieties of a ruby is dark red. These rubies are a deep, dark color of red, sometimes even a crimson color. Despite its intense coloring, a dark red ruby is not worth very much. The reasoning is simple -- there's too much chromium and iron impurities in the stone to get the classic bright-red ruby color. You can immediately recognize a dark red ruby by the stone's lack of transparency.

Orange-Brown Colors

• Orange and brown colors are the result of higher iron levels in the ruby. Iron creates a brown color in a clear corundum but usually appears in smaller amounts than chromium, the mineral responsible for red coloration. The presence of high level iron can turn a ruby to bright colors of orange or deep brownish-red colors. In regards to valuation, these rubies are usually in the middle of the low and high price ranges.

Pure Red

• Pure red rubies are considered the highest quality rubies. They are brightly colored and have a much higher degree of transparency when compared to dark red rubies. They also give off a much brighter shine when held up to a light. As its value would indicate, pure red rubies are one of the rarest colors you'll find.