Legend has it that one day, long before the Buddha walked the earth, an eagle flew over a valley called Mogok in Burma (modern day Myanmar). The eagle saw what looked like a bright red morsel of meat and tried to take it, but his claws could not grasp the piece because it was a sacred stone believed to be the very first ruby.
For centuries, the Mogok Stone Tract in Upper Burma, about 435 miles north of the old Burmese capital of Rangoon, has been one of the world’s most important sources for many different types of gemstones; but this valley is perhaps best known for producing the world’s most outstanding rubies, known throughout history as Burmese rubies.
Lot 192 - A pair of ruby and diamond swirl ear studs, estimate £8,000 - £10,000
The stones have been one of the most desired gems throughout the ages, known as “ratnaraj” or “King of Precious Stones” in the language of Sanskrit. Greek legends claimed that the ruby’s warmth could melt wax and warriors believed that the ruby could make them invincible, with some even known to implant rubies into their skin for protection in battle. In ancient times many thought that wearing rubies could bring good health, wealth, wisdom and love. And they also played their part in medicine, being swallowed whole to cure blood disorders and heal wounds.
Prized for their beauty, durability, and rarity, it is the quality of the colour which most determines the value of Burmese rubies. These rubies have a very specific and extremely saturated colour, caused by a high chromium content. Historically, the coveted term ‘pigeons blood red’ has been used to describe the vivid red hue with no overtones or orange or brown.
Lot 193 - A pair of ruby and diamond cluster ear pendants, estimate £8,000 - £10,000
Unlike diamonds, there are very few named large Burmese rubies in museums or in royal collections. This is believed to be down to the early Burmese kings ordering the rubies to be cut into smaller gems. However, there are several famous Burmese rubies that have gained international excitement. These include The Sunrise Ruby, mined in Myanmar and which sold for a total of $160.9 million in 2017. Another example would be The Jubilee Ruby, which made $14.16 million in 2016.
Lot 188 - A ruby and diamond marquise shaped ring, estimate £3,000 - £5,000
However, there are opportunities for those with more realistic budgets to be able to buy fantastic examples of Burmese rubies. At the next Cheffins Jewellery, Silver & Watches Sale on the 2nd December, we are offering a number of fabulous examples, including two ‘pigeon’s blood’ separate pairs of ruby and diamond earrings, one pair swirl ear studs and one diamond and ruby cluster pendants, both of which have an estimate of £8,000 - £10,000. In addition, there is a ruby and diamond ‘Catherine Wheel’ style cluster ring of ‘pigeon’s blood’ type, with an estimate of £4,000 - £6,000 and a ruby and diamond cluster ring which is set to sell for the same price. In addition, there is a ruby ring with diamond set shoulders and a ruby and diamond marquise shaped ring (also ‘pigeon’s blood) with estimates of £3,000 - £5,000 respectively.
To view the ruby lots in the sale click here.