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 Ruby,
precious stone, the transparent red variety of
corundum, found chiefly in Myanmar, Thailand, and Sri
Lanka and classified among the most valuable of gems.
The Myanmarese stones are blood red, the most valued
tint being the “pigeon's blood.” The Thai stones are
darker and the Sri Lankan stones lighter than the
Myanmarese specimens. Star rubies, i.e., those that
show an internal star-shaped formation when cut in
cabochon (with a rounded top), are rare. Synthetic
rubies are manufactured by the fusion of pure aluminum
oxide. Chromium oxide is added to provide the
appropriate color. |
Mile Chai
