Understanding Ruby Inclusions: Beauty, Uniqueness, and Value

When you look at a ruby, you’re not just seeing a stunning red gem—you’re looking at a natural story millions of years in the making. One of the clearest ways to read that story is through its inclusions, the tiny internal features that make each ruby uniquely its own. At Height’s Fine Jewelry, we believe understanding inclusions not only deepens your appreciation but also empowers you to make confident, informed choices about these remarkable gems.

Rough and faceted Burmese rubies. Photo by Robert Weldon/ GIA.edu, courtesy of the William F. Larson collection.

What Are Ruby Inclusions?

Inclusions are natural imperfections trapped inside a ruby during its formation deep within the earth. These can include mineral crystals, needle-like formations called “silk,” tiny fractures, or fluid-filled cavities.

They tell the gem’s origin and authenticity.

The Types of Inclusions Common in Rubies

• Silk: Fine, needle-like inclusions usually made of rutile crystals, forming delicate intersecting patterns. Silk can soften a ruby’s appearance, diffusing light to produce a desirable glow.

• Mineral Crystals: Common solid inclusions include greenish amphibole crystals, frosty mica platelets, and sometimes opaque sulfide crystals. These inclusions provide clues about the geological environment where the ruby formed.

• Feather-like Fractures: Thin internal cracks that may resemble feathers but usually don’t impact durability significantly unless extensive.

• Fingerprints and Liquid Inclusions: These show the ruby’s natural fluid-filled pockets and growth patterns.

Inclusions and Ruby Value

The size, number, location (position), relief, and nature of inclusions, similar to diamonds and other colored stone clarity grading, are factors that can affect a ruby’s value, but it’s a delicate balance:

Too Many or Large Inclusions: May reduce clarity and brilliance, lowering value, especially if they impact the stone’s durability.

Natural Silk: Often enhances overall beauty and is expected in fine rubies. Its light-scattering effect can improve color saturation and create a velvety luster.

Unique Inclusions: Some inclusions serve as a signature of origin or treatment, helping gemologists authenticate and grade the ruby.

At Height’s Fine Jewelry, we work with stones that carefully balance clarity and character, highlighting rubies that feel alive and authentic.

Why Inclusions Make Each Ruby Unique

No two rubies are exactly alike because each carries its own internal story. Inclusions make your ruby a one-of-a-kind treasure—that personal and natural uniqueness is part of its charm and allure.

Caring for Your Ruby’s Natural Beauty

While inclusions are part of a ruby’s identity, taking care of your jewelry helps preserve its strength and brilliance. Since rubies are durable (hardness 9 on the Mohs scale), everyday wear is safe, but it’s best to:

• Avoid harsh chemicals

• Clean gently with warm soapy water

• Store separately to prevent scratches

Our team can guide you on proper care tailored to your specific gemstone.

Embrace the Natural Story in Your Ruby

At Height’s Fine Jewelry, when you choose a ruby with us, you choose more than a jewel; you choose a story, history, and beauty that’s uniquely yours.

Ready to find a ruby that speaks to your story? Contact Height’s Fine Jewelry today to explore our carefully selected, beautiful, and naturally unique rubies.