Discover the Fire of Red Gemstones

Red Gemstones From SuperJeweler Are Awesome!

Red Gemstones are among the most popular gemstones, prized for their beauty as well as their meaning. There are several gemstones and crystals that have a distinctive red color, some of them precious stones and others more common. Among the red crystals names that are associated with jewelry are rubies, garnets, red jasper and cinnabar. Cinnabar, however, contains mercury and is poisonous when handled or placed on the skin, so it is no longer used in jewelry. The most popular red gemstones for jewelry are the garnet and the ruby.

Red Gemstones Meaning

The meaning of gemstones is often tied to their color. Red gemstones are said to protect against hemorrhaging and liver problems as well as diseases of the blood. They are also believed to impart vigor and courage on wearers. Because of their color, red stones have been associated with love since ancient times and were often given as tokens of love. Giving a garnet or ruby to a loved one who is traveling is said to protect the bonds of love until they return.

Rubies

Ruby gemstones, which are a bright, pure red with hints of pink, have long been associated with royalty and been included in crowns and other royal jewelry. In medieval times, it was believed that rubies could impart the gift of prophesy and increase courage. They could also protect you from evil and help you make good decisions. It is no surprise that kings and queens would want to wear them!

Garnets

Garnets, which are brownish red stones or dark red stones, were linked to both the heart and soul. Wearing them could improve the condition of the heart and inspire the soul to ecstasy. In medieval times, a garnet was believed to protect against depression and bad dreams. The Greeks believed a garnet could restore lost love.

• Which gemstones come in the color red?
• Popular red gemstones include ruby, garnet, red spinel, rubellite tourmaline, and red coral. Rubies are the most valued for their vivid red hue, while garnets and spinels offer affordable alternatives with beautiful depth of color. At SuperJeweler, we feature rich red garnet jewelry and can custom source rubies or spinels upon request.

• What is the difference between a ruby and a red gemstone?

• A ruby is a specific gemstone — red corundum colored by chromium. Other red gems like garnet, spinel, or tourmaline are chemically different but visually similar. SuperJeweler ensures accurate gemstone identification so you know if your red stone is a ruby or another beautiful alternative.

• Why are rubies red?

• Rubies owe their red color to chromium within the crystal structure of corundum. The more chromium, the richer the red. This vibrant hue is what makes ruby one of the most desirable-colored gems. At SuperJeweler, we highlight this natural beauty in both ruby and garnet pieces.

• Are all red stones rubies?

• No. While ruby is the most famous red gemstone, others like garnet, spinel, and tourmaline also come in red. Many historical “rubies” were later discovered to be spinels. SuperJeweler always verifies gemstones so our customers know exactly what they’re getting.

• How can you tell if a red gemstone is a ruby?

• Rubies are extremely hard (Mohs 9) and often fluoresce under UV light. They may have tiny inclusions called “silk.” Garnet and spinel are also red but differ in hardness and luster. At SuperJeweler, all rubies are authenticated by experts and disclosed accurately.

• What is the chemical formula for rubies?

• Ruby is Al₂O₃ (aluminum oxide), the same as sapphire. Chromium impurities make it red; other colors of corundum are called sapphire. This durability is why ruby jewelry is perfect for rings, earrings, and heirloom-quality designs at SuperJeweler.

• How rare are red gemstones like ruby?

• Rubies are rare — especially vivid untreated stones from origins like Myanmar. Garnet and spinel are more common and affordable. At SuperJeweler, we offer garnet for everyday wear and can source premium rubies for custom fine jewelry.

• What is the best red gemstone for everyday wear?

• Rubies are the hardest red gem (Mohs 9) and ideal for daily wear. Spinel (Mohs 8) is also durable. Garnet is slightly softer but still excellent for jewelry. SuperJeweler recommends garnet for budget-friendly red and ruby for luxury options.

• How much is a red ruby worth?

• Ruby value depends on color (pigeon blood red is top-tier), clarity, and origin (Burmese rubies are most prized). Prices range from hundreds to tens of thousands per carat. SuperJeweler offers garnet jewelry and spinel for affordable red options and can source fine rubies upon request.

• What are good alternatives to ruby for red gemstone jewelry?

• Alternatives include:
  • Garnet (affordable deep red)
  • Spinel (sparkly and durable)
  • Rubellite tourmaline (pinkish-red)
  • Red coral (organic warm red)

• SuperJeweler’s garnet rings and necklaces are customer favorites for brilliant red at an unbeatable value.

Learn more about Red Gemstones — See all related FAQs