*Physical Properties:*

– Hardness: 9.0 (Mohs scale)
– Density: 3.9-4.1 g/cm3
– Crystal System: Trigonal
– Luster: High
– Transparency: Transparent to translucent

*Optical Properties:*

– Refractive Index: 1.76-1.84
– Dispersion: 0.018
– Pleochroism: Red to pinkish-red

*Color:*

– Range: Pinkish-red to vivid red
– Grade: 3-4 (vivid red)

*Inclusions:*

– Common inclusions: Rutile needles, jadeite fibers, growth lines
– Rare inclusions: Actinolite, tourmaline

*Treatments:*

– Heat treatment: Common to enhance color
– Fillings: Rare, typically with lead glass or resin

*Sources:*

– Myanmar (Burma): Known for high-quality rubies
– Thailand: Produces rubies with a range of colors
– Cambodia: Known for pinkish-red rubies
– Vietnam: Produces rubies with a range of colors

*Rarity:*

– High-quality rubies with vivid red color and minimal inclusions are rare
– Rubies over 5 carats are considered rare

*Price Range:*

– Commercial-quality rubies: $100-$500 per carat
– High-quality rubies: $500-$2,000 per carat
– Investment-quality rubies: $2,000-$10,000 per carat

Note: Prices vary depending on factors like quality, size, and market demand