An Expensive Ruby: The Sunrise Ruby

Gemstones have captivated people for ages. Among these shiny stones, some rare and colorful ones are hard to find. The Sunrise Ruby is a perfect example of such a gem, showcasing incredible beauty compared to the finest Rubies and other stones.

How Rare are Natural Rubies?

When talking about rare gemstones, we mean the highest quality ones. Rubies, part of the corundum family, are much rarer than sapphires, which are already considered rare. A natural Ruby with a bright red color, good clarity, and a decent size is extremely special.

The Sunrise Ruby: A Gemstone Like No Other

The Sunrise Ruby stands out with its dark red “pigeon blood” color, clear appearance, and size of 25.59 carats. Each of these features makes it remarkable, but having all three together is extraordinary. Historically, kings traded cities for such exceptional Rubies, with stories of Mughal emperor Jahangir and Mongol King Kublai Khan doing just that.

Finding a Ruby over 5 carats is already tough, so the 25.59-carat Sunrise Ruby is exceptionally rare. Experts believe that another Ruby like this may never be found again. David Benett, a gemstone authority, said he had never seen a Ruby of this quality in his 40 years in the industry.

The Gubelin gem report describes the Sunrise Ruby as having a rich “pigeon blood red” color, high clarity, and brilliance, making it stunning. It also hasn’t undergone any thermal treatment, which is a plus.

History of the Sunrise Ruby

The original Sunrise Ruby was mined in the Mongok region of Myanmar, known for producing some of the best Rubies. Gubelin acquired the rough stone, which was then cut and polished before being auctioned at Sotheby’s in Geneva in 2015.

Sunrise Ruby Auction at Sotheby’s

In 2015, the Sunrise Ruby sold for $30.3 million, making it the world’s most expensive Ruby for eight years. The only one to surpass it was the Estrela de Fura, a larger Ruby that sold for $34.8 million in June 2023.

Sunrise vs. Estrela de Fura Ruby

Though comparing these two top Rubies isn’t easy, it’s interesting to note their differences. The Sunrise Ruby shines with its color and clarity, while Estrela de Fura is notable for its large size of 55.22 carats. However, Sunrise’s beauty is still considered superior.

Astrological Use of Sunrise Ruby

Natural Rubies are believed to be powerful in astrology. Known as the “King of all Gemstones,” they are linked to the Sun in Vedic Astrology. Wearing a Ruby is thought to boost health, fame, authority, and protection. Although the 25.59-carat Sunrise Ruby is too large for regular wear, even a 3-5 carat Ruby can provide these benefits.

Sunrise Ruby: Rumi’s Words

The name “Sunrise Ruby” comes from a poem by the Sufi poet Rumi. He compares a person to a Ruby in sunlight, suggesting that true beauty emerges from our daily devotion to life, just like a Ruby illuminated by the Sunrise.

Conclusion

With its stunning beauty and the poetic name, the Sunrise Ruby is truly one of a kind. Such extraordinary gems are incredibly rare, and many gem enthusiasts may never even see one in their lifetime. While nature can create beautiful gems, finding one like the Sunrise Ruby might only happen once in centuries. Its legend will only grow as time passes.