Corundum
Sapphires and rubies are both varieties of corundum. Just a trace of chromium in corundum will create ruby red color. Sometimes, natural gems form in a non-continuous manner. For example, a fracture in the Earth may add a new element to the chemical mix of a developing gemstone crystal. If the fracture is re-sealed and the new chemical mix is just slightly different, the crystal may continue to grow with new layers distinguished by different colors. This is known as color zoning. If a little chromium enters the mix of a developing sapphire, you may get a color-zoned corundum crystal that's part-sapphire and part-ruby, like this red-and-purple specimen from Winza, Tanzania. Photos © Rob Lavinsky, www.iRocks.com. Used with permission.
Article: What are the Best Rough Sapphire Stones?
Credit: www.iRocks.com
Gemstone | Corundum |
Natural or man made | Natural |
Origin | Tanzania |
Origin details | Winza |
Gem State | Specimen |
Color | Red, Blue |
Transparency | Translucent |
Multi-color | Bi-color |