Color
The color of a ruby is one of the most important factors in determining its authenticity. A genuine ruby has a deep, intense red color that is caused by the presence of Chromium. The color should be consistent throughout the stone, without any color zoning or fading. Be wary of rubies that have a pinkish or purplish tint, as these are often signs of a fake ruby.
Transparency
A ruby should be transparent to some degree. If the stone is too opaque, it may be a fake ruby. Some rubies have natural inclusions, which are internal flaws, but these inclusions should not affect the transparency of the stone. In fact, some inclusions can enhance the beauty and value of the ruby.
Hue
The hue of a ruby is the shade of red that it possesses. A genuine ruby should have a primary hue of red, with secondary hues of orange or purple. If the ruby has a yellow or green tint, it may be a fake ruby. Similarly, if the ruby has a dark or muddy hue, it is likely to be a low-grade ruby or a fake ruby.
Weight
The weight of a ruby can also be an indicator of its authenticity. A genuine ruby is denser than a fake ruby and should weigh more for its size. However, weight alone cannot guarantee the authenticity of a ruby. Other factors, such as color and transparency, should also be considered.
Fluorescence
Some rubies exhibit a fluorescence under ultraviolet light. A genuine ruby may appear to glow in blue or purplish hues under UV light. However, not all rubies have this property, so the absence of fluorescence does not necessarily mean that the ruby is fake.
Scratch Test
A scratch test can also be used to determine the authenticity of a ruby. Rubies are very hard, ranking second on the Mohs scale of hardness. They should not be easily scratched by a knife or other metal object. If the ruby is scratched easily, it may be a fake ruby or a low-grade ruby.
Heat Test
A heat test can also be used to determine the authenticity of a ruby. Rubies are resistant to heat and can withstand high temperatures. If a ruby is heated, it should not lose its color or transparency. If the ruby changes color or cracks under heat, it may be a fake ruby.
Certification
The most reliable way to know if a ruby is genuine is to have it certified by a reputable gemological laboratory. A certificate from a laboratory such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gemological Society (AGS) can provide valuable information about the authenticity, quality, and value of the ruby.
In conclusion, there are several ways to know if a ruby is genuine. The color, transparency, hue, weight, fluorescence, scratch test, and heat test can all be used to determine the authenticity of a ruby. However, the most reliable way to know if a ruby is genuine is to have it certified by a reputable gemological laboratory. With these tips in mind, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a ruby.