RUBY VS EMERALD: The King vs. The Queen of Gemstones

The choice between a Ruby and an Emerald is the ultimate decision in colored gemstone royalty. It’s a clash between the fiery, passionate “King of Gems” and the deep, serene “Queen of Gems.” Both are part of the prestigious “Big Four” (with sapphire and diamond) and represent the absolute pinnacle of rarity, luxury, and symbolism.

This definitive guide breaks down the key differences in durability, color, and value to help you decide which regal gem deserves your crown.

Ruby vs. Emerald: A Quick Comparison

Aspect	Ruby	Emerald
Chemical Composition	Aluminum Oxide (Corundum)	Beryllium Aluminum Silicate (Beryl)
Hardness (Mohs Scale)	9 (Exceptional)	7.5 – 8
Durability	Excellent. Tough and ideal for daily wear.	Poor to Fair. Inherently included; requires careful wear.
Best Known For	Vivid “pigeon’s blood” red, passion, and rarity.	Rich “emerald” green, rarity, and timeless elegance.
Clarity	Typically eye-clean; valued for color and brilliance.	Almost always included (“jardin”); valued for color over clarity.
Treatment	Heat treatment is common and accepted.	Oiling is universal and expected to enhance clarity.
Price Point	$$$$ – $$$$$+ (Premium to Luxury)	$$$$ – $$$$$+ (Premium to Luxury)

1. Durability and Hardness: The Passionate Warrior vs. The Regal Queen

This is the most critical practical difference between the two gems.

Ruby: With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, ruby is the second hardest natural gemstone after diamond. It is exceptionally scratch-resistant and possesses excellent toughness. This makes it a far superior choice for an engagement ring or daily-worn jewelry. It can confidently stand up to a lifetime of wear.
Emerald: With a hardness of 7.5-8, emerald is technically hard enough. However, its toughness is notoriously poor. Virtually all emeralds contain natural inclusions and fractures (jardin), making them vulnerable to chipping, cracking, and damage from knocks or even ultrasonic cleaners. They require protective settings (like bezels) and conscious, careful wear. They are not ideal for an active lifestyle.

Jewelry Verdict:

For a durable, worry-free, everyday ring: Ruby is the clear and practical winner.
For a special occasion piece or a ring worn with great care: Emerald can be stunning, but it must be treated as the delicate treasure it is.

2. Color and Appearance: Fiery Glow vs. Velvety Depth

This is the heart of the decision—the emotion evoked by the color.

Ruby is prized for its intensely saturated, vivid red, often with a slight purplish or bluish undertone. The most coveted color is a pure, vibrant “pigeon’s blood” red. A fine ruby possesses an incandescent, fiery glow that seems to come from within. It is associated with heat, energy, and life.
Emerald is celebrated for its unique bluish-green to pure green hue. The most prized color is a deep, velvety, and highly saturated green. Unlike ruby, most emeralds are included, and these inclusions (jardin) are accepted as part of the stone’s unique fingerprint, proof of its natural origin. Its beauty is one of cool, luxurious depth and tranquil elegance.

3. Price and Value: The Ultimate Investment

Both are among the most expensive gemstones in the world, but value drivers differ.

Ruby value is driven by color, clarity, and origin (e.g., Burmese rubies command legendary premiums). A fine, unheated Burmese ruby of top color can be the most expensive gemstone on earth, per carat.
Emerald value is driven almost exclusively by color. A rich, saturated green is paramount. Unlike ruby, high clarity is exceptionally rare and commands astronomical premiums. Origin also matters greatly, with Colombian emeralds being the most prized.

4. Symbolism and Meaning

Ruby: The “King of Gems.” Symbolizes passion, courage, vitality, and undying love. It is the birthstone for July and has been associated with power and protection for centuries.
Emerald: The “Queen of Gems.” Symbolizes rebirth, hope, wisdom, and unconditional love. It was a favorite of Cleopatra and is the birthstone for May. It represents growth, harmony, and the heart.

The Final Verdict: Which Royal Gem is Right for You?

Choose a Ruby if:

You seek a gem of passion, energy, and power.
Durability for daily wear is a non-negotiable priority (e.g., for an engagement ring).
You are drawn to a fiery, glowing red that commands attention.
You value a stone that is typically clean and brilliant.

Choose an Emerald if:

You are captivated by a deep, calming, and luxurious green.
You appreciate the unique character of inclusions (jardin) and the stone’s organic beauty.
You are purchasing a special occasion piece and are prepared for its careful maintenance.
The symbolism of wisdom, growth, and serene love resonates with you.

In essence: Ruby is the warrior’s jewel—durable, fiery, and bold. Emerald is the sovereign’s jewel—rare, elegant, and requiring reverence. Both are worthy of a crown, but they rule over different kingdoms of the heart.

Find Your Royal Gem at JW

Whether your allegiance lies with the passionate King or the serene Queen, our collections showcase the world’s finest Rubies and Emeralds.

Explore Our Ruby Collection
Explore Our Emerald Collection
Schedule a Royal Consultation: Our gemologists will guide you through the nuances of these majestic stones.