Ruby Jewelry
There are a number of factors to consider when buying ruby jewelry.
Firstly ensure you always buy rubies from a trustworthy dealer or jeweler. Preferably one who specializes in precious gemstones and rubies in particular if possible.
Many gemstones are heat treated, including rubies. This is done to bring out the colors more and sometimes to even change the color of a stone. Find out if the stone has been heat treated in anyway. Also if it has been irradiated, coated or dyed. Sometimes these treatments will devalue the stone but other times may even increase the value.
Check the color of the stone. Generally speaking the deeper the color or hue the more valuable the stone will be. The gemstone should be near perfect with no visible flaws visible to the naked eye. The surface should reflect light and the stone have perfect clarity. There should be no visible flaws or scratches on the surface of the stone.
Make sure you can examine the stone from all sides and angles. Turn it over in your hand. Also try and get the opportunity to examine the stone in natural light. Many gemstones will change tone or even color in artificial light.
Pure genuine rubies are not cheap. If you are offered a cheap rubies it is most likely not genuine but a fake.
If possible get a certificate stating the type, quality and details of the stone from the dealer. Make sure it is very specific. If at anytime you discover the stone is not as described you want to be able to return it and get a refund so ensure the dealer has a returns policy that allows for this.
If the stone has been set in a ring or other metal ensure that you can see the back of the stone. This is important as if the back is blocked off then there will be limited light able to shine through and the stone will not look as good. A stone should have a prong or claw setting and not be glued in place. Glue can deteriorate over time and the stone be lost. the prongs or claws are soemtimes used to hide flaws also.
Taking the above factors into consideration will assist to finding and keeping your ruby jewelry for many years to come.