The Same Mineral. A Different Origin.
Lab-grown ruby is red corundum grown in a laboratory. Chromium ions (Cr³⁺) replace some aluminium ions (Al³⁺) in the crystal, giving ruby its red colour. Its chemical composition, crystal structure and basic physical and optical properties are essentially the same as natural ruby’s.
From crystal growth to cutting and polishing.
01
Crystal Growth
Ruby crystals grow in a laboratory using one of several methods.
02
Rough Blank
The crystal is cut into blanks for further shaping.
03
Precision Preform
Each blank is shaped to the planned cut and size.
04
Finished Gemstone
Facets are cut and polished to complete the stone.
SQ and MQ are quality levels, not colour names. Within the same colour option, SQ follows stricter colour selection criteria than MQ.
Classic Red and Bright Red are BIG3 colour names, not independent laboratory grades.
Classic Red
A rich, deep red.
Bright Red
A standard ruby red appearance.
How Cutting Influences Ruby's Appearance
A ruby's shape, cutting proportions and facet arrangement influence how it reflects light and how its colour appears.
Even stones with similar colour may look different in brightness and contrast. Compare samples of similar size under the same lighting when selecting a cut for your design.
Browse established colour references, standard shapes, sizes and quality grades in the BIG3 Standard Program.