4mm Faceted Ruby, Natural. Price is for one strand 15 to 16 inches long.
A ruby is a pink to blood-red colored gemstone, a variety of the mineral corundum (aluminum). Other varieties of gem-quality corundum are called sapphires. The word ruby comes from "ruber", Latin for red. The color of a ruby is due to the element chromium. Most rubies have a strong red color, although the precise color of rubies can range from blood-red to orange-red, purple-red, brown-red, or even a pink-red tone.
Historically, rubies have been mined in Thailand, Cambodia, Afghanistan, Australia, Brazil, Colombia, India, Japan, Namibia, South Africa and Scotland. After the Second World War ruby deposits were found in Madagascar, Nepal, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, and Vietnam. A few rubies have been found in the U.S. states of Montana, North Carolina, South Carolina and Wyoming.
Hardness 9
This is a natural stone that has had no treatment other than cutting, drilling, and polishing.
The source of these beads is South Africa and they are cut, drilled and polished in China.
These are beautiful gemstones for the price. The color varies per bead as I expected but does not effect the quality. I made earrings and bracelets as gifts and they are beautiful. I would definitely purchase again. This vendor is honest, fast delivery, and carries quality items.
