The ethymology of the word “Ruby” can be traced back to the Latin word “ruber,” meaning red. This is fitting as rubies are revered for their vibrant red color. The word “ruber” evolved into “rubinus” in Medieval Latin, and eventually, “ruby” in the English language. Rubies have been treasured throughout history for their beauty and were considered one of the most precious gemstones. The etymology of “Ruby” highlights the significance of its rich red hue and the enduring allure it holds in the world of gemstones.

In the evaluation of colored gemstones, color is the most important factor. Color divides into three components: hue, saturation and tone. Hue refers to color as we normally use the term. Transparent gemstones occur in the pure spectral hues of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet.

In nature, there are rarely pure hues, so when speaking of the hue of a gemstone, we speak of primary and secondary and sometimes tertiary hues. Ruby is defined to be red. All other hues of the gem species corundum are called sapphire. Ruby may exhibit a range of secondary hues, including orange, purple, violet, and pink.

Historically, rubies have been mined in Thailand, in the Pailin and Samlout District of Cambodia, as well as in Afghanistan, Australia, Brazil, Colombia, India, Namibia, Japan, and Scotland. After the Second World War, ruby deposits were found in Madagascar, Mozambique, Nepal, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, and Vietnam.
The Republic of North Macedonia is the only country in mainland Europe to have naturally occurring rubies. They can mainly be found around the city of Prilep. Macedonian rubies have a unique raspberry color.