Rubellite - The Gemstone of Passion and Love
| Name Origin: | From the Latin rubellus meaning reddish |
|---|---|
| Colour: | From shocking pink to various shades of red |
| Family: | Tourmaline |
| Hardness: | 7 to 7.5 out of 10 on the Mohs Scale |
| Found in: | Brazil, Mozambique, Nigeria, Madagascar and Pakistan, USA. |
| Birthstone: | October (as a form of Tourmaline) |
| Anniversaries: | 8th (as a form of Tourmaline) |
ELECTRIC LITE
The name may be similar and the colours familiar, but the rubellite is not simply a watered down ruby. It is actually a form of Tourmaline a mineral group of closely related gemstones. While most are simply known as green tourmaline or yellow tourmaline, rubellite is not simply red tourmaline in fact there are certain features that distinguish it.
One such unique feature is its colourfast properties with hues that quite unusually do not change their look under artificial lights. This tends to be the opposite of many gems. Today, rubellite is one of the most popular gemstones available and fits well with almost any jewellery. Thanks in part to its ruby-like properties and strong colouring, there has been an increase in demand in recent times due to its durability and bold good looks.
Speaking of lights, this lite (along with all tourmalines) is associated with electricity. Nowhere is this more evident in the brilliant deep rich reds of the most valued forms of rubellite seemingly powered by something to give them that passionate, intense colour.
When it comes to price, the lite is correct! Rubelite is far more affordable than a ruby, hence its widespread use in jewellery.
YOUR RUBELLITE
It is perfectly acceptable for rubellites to be heat treated to improve their clarity. If a rubellite has inclusions that do not affect the light, these are seen as a unique and highly valued birthmarks.
Rubellite is a durable gemstone, making maintenance a breeze. All it takes is warm, soapy water and a soft cloth to wipe it clean. While suitable for many types of jewellery, we recommend not wearing your rubellite if you're undertaking vigorous activity. And while the above cleaning regimen is adequate, it's a good idea to have it professionally cleaned every two years.