Ruby vs Pink Sapphire: The Major Differences

Posted on March 17th, 2025 05:23 PM

Ruby and sapphire stone are two different gemstones that belong to the same corundum family. In terms of color and clarity, they resemble similarities, but overall, they are gemstones of different genres. Both these ratnas have variations in color, composition, value and symbolism. This blog will explore the major differences between ruby and pink sapphire

Read Here: Is a Ruby a Sapphire?

Pigeon blood Natural Ruby - 3.02 Carat

Pigeon blood Natural Ruby - 3.02 Carat

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Pigeon blood Natural Ruby - 3.02 Carat

Pigeon blood Natural Ruby - 3.02 Carat

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Natural Ruby - 1.88 Carat

Natural Ruby - 1.88 Carat

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Natural Ruby - 1.91 Carat

Natural Ruby - 1.91 Carat

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Pink Sapphire vs Ruby: Composition and Origin 

Besides the similarities of the mineral family, there is one major difference: sapphires are never red. Rubies are typically found in metamorphic rocks, such as marble or gneiss, as well as in igneous rocks, such as basalt. Pink sapphire, on the other hand, is often found in alluvial deposits, which are deposits of sediment that have been transported and deposited by water. 

Both these gems are found worldwide. Burmese ruby are the best type of ruby, whereas Madagascar pink sapphire are of high quality. Read Here: What is the Chemical Composition of Ruby and Sapphire?

Ruby vs Pink Sapphire: Color Difference 

The major difference between pink sapphire and ruby lies in their color. Natural ruby or Manik stone is vivid red with a purplish tint. Rubies can be pink, especially those found in Sri Lanka (Ceylon). Ruby's color is due to the presence of a trace element, chromium. Pink rubies have less chromium and thus appear lighter in shade. Pink sapphire, on the contrary, is entirely pink in color. The sapphire color ranges from pale pink to magenta. Read here: Understanding The 4 C's of Ruby Gemstone

Ruby Color Chart

Pink Sapphire vs Ruby: Hardness 

Both sapphire and ruby rank 9 on the Mohs scale of hardness and thus are equally powerful. This means that they are very resistant to scratching and abrasion and are considered excellent choices for jewelry. Ruby vs Sapphire vs Emerald in terms of hardness relates to corundum being the finest, with Emerald stone being the softest.

Pink Sapphire Color Chart

Price Difference 

Rubies are more expensive than pink sapphires. The Manik stone price ranges from INR 5,000 to INR 5 lakhs. Natural pink sapphire on the contrary is less expensive with the price ranging from INR 2,000 to INR 30,000 per carat. Pink sapphires are often sold as pink rubies because of their similarity in color. This can be an eye-opener for those unfamiliar with gemstone identification. How to identify sapphires and rubies? Ruby stone, under ultraviolet light, glows in pink, whereas sapphires do not react to this light. 

Read More: How To Determine Ruby Stone Price? Complete Guide

Ruby Clarity Chart

Ruby vs Pink Sapphire the Major Difference Astrology 

Pink Sapphire or Gulabi Pukhraj in astrology is used as a Manik stone substitute. It is linked to the planet Surya (Sun). This pink gemstone is believed to offer you professional success. It is more of a feminine color, blessing females with love and romance. Ruby stone benefits the wearer with the strong effects of the Sun, such as leadership and decision-making. Read Here: What is the Chemical Composition of Ruby and Sapphire?

It is the best stone for marital harmony. Manikam stone is the main gemstone for the Surya planet in Vedic astrology. It is more effective and shows results in 72 hours, whereas pink sapphire, its substitute, takes 2-3 days to show results. Padparadscha sapphire stone, however, is the pricier substitute for ruby stone. 

Buyer’s Caution: Sapphires are not red. However, you will find them at marketplaces. Orange and pink sapphires are treated with iron and chromium, and then the color is changed to red. This is called Red sapphire and can create confusion when compared to other red stones. Thus, red sapphire vs ruby relates to the former being man-made, whereas the latter is naturally obtained directly from the earth's surface.

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