Coral vs. Ruby

Attribute	Coral	Ruby
Color	Variety of colors including red, pink, white, and black	Red to pink in color
Hardness	3.5-4 on the Mohs scale	9 on the Mohs scale
Chemical Composition	Calcium carbonate	Aluminum oxide
Formation	Formed by colonies of tiny animals called polyps	Formed in metamorphic rocks

Physical Attributes

Coral and ruby are both beautiful gemstones that are prized for their vibrant colors. Coral is a marine organism that grows in colonies, forming hard skeletons that are harvested for jewelry. It is typically found in shades of red, pink, and white. Ruby, on the other hand, is a variety of the mineral corundum and is known for its deep red color. Rubies can also exhibit secondary hues such as purple, orange, and pink.

One key difference between coral and ruby is their hardness. Ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, scoring a 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This makes it extremely durable and suitable for everyday wear. Coral, on the other hand, is much softer, with a hardness of only 3.5 on the Mohs scale. This means that coral is more prone to scratches and damage, requiring extra care when wearing and storing.

Symbolism and Meaning

Both coral and ruby have been imbued with symbolism and meaning throughout history. Coral has long been associated with protection and healing. In many cultures, coral was believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the wearer from harm. It was also thought to have medicinal properties and was used in traditional medicine practices.

Ruby, on the other hand, has been associated with passion, love, and power. The deep red color of rubies has led them to be linked with the heart and emotions. In ancient times, rubies were believed to bring good fortune and success in love. Today, rubies are often given as gifts to symbolize love and commitment.

Value and Rarity

When it comes to value and rarity, ruby is generally considered to be more valuable and rare than coral. Rubies of high quality and large size can command high prices in the market, especially those with a pure red color and few inclusions. The most valuable rubies often come from Myanmar, formerly known as Burma.

On the other hand, coral is more abundant and less valuable than ruby. While certain types of coral, such as red coral from the Mediterranean Sea, can be highly prized for their color and quality, they are still more readily available than fine rubies. However, due to overharvesting and environmental concerns, coral is becoming increasingly rare and protected.

Uses and Applications

Both coral and ruby have been used for various purposes throughout history. Coral has been used in jewelry and decorative arts for centuries. It is often carved into beads, cameos, and other intricate designs. Coral is also believed to have metaphysical properties, such as promoting creativity and intuition.

Ruby, on the other hand, is primarily used in jewelry for its beauty and durability. It is a popular choice for engagement rings, earrings, and other fine jewelry pieces. Rubies are also used in watches, cufflinks, and other accessories. In addition to its use in jewelry, ruby is also used in laser technology, as it has the ability to produce a strong red light.

Conclusion

In conclusion, coral and ruby are both stunning gemstones with unique attributes and characteristics. While coral is prized for its organic origin and vibrant colors, ruby is valued for its hardness, rarity, and symbolism. Whether you prefer the protective qualities of coral or the passionate allure of ruby, both gemstones have a rich history and continue to be cherished for their beauty and significance.