Ruby and sapphires both come from the same mineral corundum and share the same hardness score. Both stones are beautiful but when you face the question of ruby vs pink sapphire, you probably need a little more information.
Sapphires are the second hardest gemstone in the world and they come in all shades of the rainbow. From blues & pinks to yellows & greens to even white, you’ll find them all. The only color which is an exception is red. That is because the rich red corundum has its own identity as ruby.
We call ruby the king of gemstones but we don’t call sapphire by any such title though we all recognize it for its subtle elegance
So without any further ado, let’s dive right into the game of ruby vs pink sapphire. Here is a detailed analysis to make the choice a little easier for you!
Hardness
Since rubies and pink sapphires originate from the same mineral, both gemstones have the same level of durability. The score of 9/10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, makes both of them the second hardest rock in the world, second only to diamonds. Want to buy jewelry to be worn on an everyday basis? These two gemstones are a perfect choice.
Symbolism
All the gemstones around the world have a deep spiritual meaning attached to them and so do rubies and pink sapphires.
Rubies Meaning: Passion, good health, wealth, wisdom, success in love
Pink Sapphire Meaning: Good fortune, power through hardships, compassion, intense love
The supposedly magical qualities of rubies offer protection when worn as a talisman. As per some belief, if you wear a ruby on your left side i.e. on the heart side, you’ll be able to live peacefully without health and wealth issues. Nobody could claim your land, position or possessions. The stone would protect you from all dangers, even the perils of a storm or a natural catastrophe.
Pink sapphire is also not distant from certain beliefs and symbolism. In astrology, it is supposed to represent the planet Venus though there are other gemstones also for that representation. It is supposed to provide its wearer with better logical ability and judgment, leading to a more successful profession. Besides, it also provides emotional stability.
Color Difference
One of the most sought-after gemstones is the ruby. However, the subtle elegant pink sapphire comes from the same mineral called corundum. The major difference between these two stones is their color.
Rubies receive their rich red color from the presence of the element chromium. The higher the concentration of chromium, the more saturated the color red. On the other hand sapphire is known to have impurities like iron, titanium and chromium which gives this mineral an array of colors!
Although the presence of chromium in low quantity is what makes the sapphire pink in color, it’s the strength of the shade which puts the gemstone either in the category of sapphire or ruby. When the concentration of chromium in the mineral increases so as to term it red instead of pink, we call it ruby. The most coveted color of ruby is the pigeon blood red.
Price Differences
Ruby stone has always had a special place in people’s heart since it has symbolized love & passion for long. Rubies are known for their bold red color, but here’s a fun fact, most rubies are actually pinkish or purplish-red. The pigeon blood red is extremely rare and because of this rarity, rubies with this color saturation are always marked at a higher price point. The more popular ruby gems almost always have undertones of pink or purple.
Pink sapphires have recently gained a lot of attention due to their color and are being used as wedding jewelry and in engagement rings for their elegance and subtlety. The beautiful pink stones, in comparison with rubies, are priced quite economically!
Verdict
So, now it’s easier for you to evaluate the ruby vs pink sapphire conundrum. Undoubtedly, both of these stones are extremely durable and resilient to everyday use. Both are precious gemstones and they make for a perfect gift for your loved one and for yourself. Although keeping the price factor in mind, the pink sapphire would definitely win the battle as it is economically priced and won’t drain your pockets as a high-quality ruby might.
Though both gemstones have won our hearts, the final decision rests in your hand. Your style preference and budget will eventually call the shots.
Face off Summary Table
| Ruby | Pink Sapphire |
| Mineral – Corundum | Mineral – Corundum |
| Color – Red – Pigeon Blood, Deep, Medium, Purplish, Pinkish | Color – Pink, Intense Pink, Vivid Pink, and Soft Pink |
| Mohs Hardness – 9 | Mohs Hardness – 9 |
| Symbolism – Passionate, good health, wealth, wisdom, success in love | Symbolism – Good fortune, power through hardships, compassion to the wearer, intense love |
| Origin – Burma, Madagascar, Thailand, Tanzania, Mozambique | Origin – Sri Lanka, Myanmar, East Africa |
| Price – Can be expensive according to the quality one is buying | Price – Comparatively economical |
If you want to own any of these magnificent gemstones (or maybe both), then you must check out our collection of high-quality natural rubies and pink sapphires here on our GemsNY website. For more affordable options we have lab created rubies and sapphires for you.
Also Read
6 Most Famous Rubies | Celebrity Ruby Engagement Rings
