Ruby is the red variety of the mineral Corundum (AL2O3) and is the only variety of this mineral to be called anything other than Sapphire. It separates itself from the other members of this family by the addition of trace amounts of the element chromium to give it its red color and strong florescence when the iron content is low. With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs Scale of mineral hardness, Ruby is an ideal gemstone for everyday wear jewelry. Being the birthstone of July, and sought after throughout the world, Ruby commands some of the highest per carat prices in the market.
