Differences Between Garnet & Ruby
At J.H. Young Jewellers, we often encounter questions about gemstones, especially regarding their characteristics and differences. One common query is whether a garnet is the same as a ruby. While both garnets and rubies share a captivating red hue, they are distinct gemstones with unique properties, origins, and histories. This guide will help you understand the differences between garnets and rubies, enhancing your appreciation for these beautiful gemstones.
Understanding Garnets
Composition and Species
Garnets are a group of silicate minerals that form in a variety of colors, including red, purplish red, oranges, green, and yellows. The red variety is the most well-known and often is compared to rubies.
The Five Species of Garnet
The Garnet group presents a diverse range of minerals distinguished by their unique colours. Gemologists have categorized this group into five distinct species.
- Almandine: Deep red, sometimes with a brownish hue.
- Pyrope: Bright red, often similar in appearance to rubies.
- Spessartine: Ranges from yellow to red-orange.
- Grossular: Comes in green, yellow, and reddish hues.
- Andradite: Can be green, yellow, or black.
Within these five species, there is a sub-classification known as Variety. Among the varieties, Tsavorite Garnets, a type of the Grossular Species, attracts attention from consumers and collectors. Tsavorite garnets exhibit a vibrant green color and are mined from East African countries like Kenya, and Madagascar.
Physical Properties
Garnets have a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making them durable enough for everyday wear but not as hard as rubies. Garnets are often found in metamorphic rocks (rocks altered by the combination of heat and pressure). Garnets are mined in regions such as Africa, India, Russia, Madagascar and Sri Lanka.
Histories and Lore
Garnets have a rich and significant history. They were used in adornments and jewellery worn by Egyptian pharaohs and ancient Romans. The term "garnet" originates from the Latin word "granatus," which means pomegranate. This name is inspired by the deep purplish-red hue that garnets share with pomegranate seeds.
Understanding Rubies
Composition and Origin
Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum, with a chemical composition of aluminum oxide (Al2O3) with traces of chromium, which gives them their red color. The presence of chromium can result in hues ranging from pinkish-red to deep, vivid red. Rubies are highly prized for their color, hardness, and rarity
Physical Properties
Rubies rank 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them one of the hardest gemstones, second only to diamonds. This exceptional hardness contributes to their durability and suitability for all types of jewellery.
Histories and Lore
“Ruby” derived from the latin “ruber” for red, have been revered throughout history and have adorned the crowns and jewels of royalty. In medieval Europe, Rubies were believed to promote wealth, health, and success in romantic endeavors. Since then the association with passion, protection, and prosperity has made Ruby a sought-after gemstone. The most renowned sources of rubies are Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, and Sri Lanka.
Key Differences Between Garnets and Rubies
Color and Appearance
While both garnets and rubies are known for their red color, the shades can vary significantly:
- Garnets: Typically exhibit a range of red hues, from deep brownish-red to bright red. Some garnets can even display a purplish tint.
- Rubies: Known for their vivid, saturated red color, are often described as "pigeon blood" red. Rubies generally have a more intense and consistent color compared to garnets.
Hardness and Durability
The difference in hardness is a crucial factor:
- Garnets: With a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5, garnets are durable but not as resistant to scratches and abrasion, as rubies are especially when set into rings, and bracelets.
- Rubies: Ranking at 9 on the Mohs scale, rubies are extremely hard and durable, suitable for everyday wear and all types of jewellery.
Value and Rarity
Rubies are generally more valuable and rarer than garnets due to supply and demand:
- Garnets: While beautiful, garnets are more abundant in the earth and, therefore, more affordable. The color saturation in garnets is usually less intense and can vary within the same stone.
- Rubies: Due to their rarity, especially high-quality rubies, can command higher prices and are considered one of the most precious gemstones. A rubies colour is the most significant characteristic that affects its price. The more pure and vibrant the red the more valuable the ruby.
How to Identify Garnets and Rubies
An experienced jeweller, or Gemologist can often distinguish between garnets and rubies through careful visual inspection. For conclusive identification, professional gemological testing is recommended. Gemologists use advanced tools and techniques to verify a gemstone's identity including;
Spectroscope: A spectroscope analyzes the light spectrum passing through a gemstone, revealing absorption patterns unique to different minerals. This tool helps identify the specific type of gemstone based on its spectral fingerprint.
Microscopic Examination: Using a microscope, jewellers can closely examine the inclusions and internal structure of a gemstone. The type, shape, and pattern of inclusions can provide valuable clues to a gemstone's identity.
Conclusion
Identifying garnets and rubies involves a combination of visual inspection, and professional gemological tools. Each method provides unique insights into the gemstone's characteristics, helping to accurately determine whether a stone is a garnet or a ruby. At J.H. Young Jewellers, our knowledgeable team of GIA-certified Gemologists are equipped with the expertise and tools to accurately identify and evaluate gemstones, ensuring you receive only the highest quality pieces. For personalized assistance and expert advice, visit our showroom or contact us today!
For further reading please visit;
https://www.gia.edu/garnet/gem-overview
