Ruby

Is the beautiful red gemstone that is this month's birthstone. Ruby is a member of the sapphire family, but rubies are rarer and therefore more expensive.

Most rubies found are relatively small; a large ruby is rare and therefore valuable. For this reason, rubies are not used in spiritual healing – an alternative red gemstone like garnet is often chosen. Red garnet is also the alternative birthstone for this month.

Estrella de Fura

The Mozambican 55.22 ct Estrela de Fura can rightly be called 'hot'. A record amount was paid for this beautiful ruby. Never before has anyone spent so much money on a ruby or other colored gemstone. Even in its rough form (101 ct), experts agreed on its exceptional fluorescence, outstanding clarity, and 'pigeon blood' red color.

This ruby was sold in 2023 for a record amount of $34.8 million ($630,288/ct) – the expected yield was more than $30 million.