Question 1

What does pigeon's blood mean on a ruby report?

Accepted Answer

It is a trade colour term, not a scientific grade, used by laboratories such as GRS, SSEF and Gübelin for rubies of highly saturated, pure to slightly bluish red with strong fluorescence. Each lab sets its own criteria, and depending on the lab the term can also apply to rubies from sources other than Burma. Always read the full report and note which laboratory issued it.

Question 2

Are Burma rubies better than Mozambique rubies?

Accepted Answer

Not automatically. Fine Burmese rubies have a long track record and often show stronger fluorescence, which the market values highly. Fine Mozambique rubies can match them for colour and are often cleaner. The quality of the individual stone matters more than origin alone, although at comparable quality a documented Burmese origin usually carries a premium.

Question 3

How can I tell if a Burmese ruby has been heated?

Accepted Answer

Not reliably by eye. Laboratories examine inclusions, checking whether silk and crystals show signs of alteration, and use spectroscopy to support their findings. A report from a recognised laboratory will state whether there are indications of heating and whether any residues are present in fissures. For a Burmese ruby offered as unheated, a report from a lab such as GRS, SSEF, Gübelin or GIA is essential.

Question 4

What is a Mong Hsu ruby?

Accepted Answer

A ruby from the Mong Hsu area in Shan State, Myanmar, mined in quantity since the early 1990s. The rough typically has dark blue or violet cores that are removed by heating, often with processes that leave residues in healed fissures. Heated Mong Hsu rubies can show good red colour but are generally valued below comparable fine Mogok stones.

Burma Rubies