Several attributes have to be looked at when selecting the right Ruby. The most significant characteristic is the color: the best-quality rubies should be an intense, rich red, known as ‘pigeon’s blood,’ free from any hints of brown or purple. Transparency is another important aspect; each Ruby has some inclusions but the fewer and more discreet they are the better. The cut has to allow the stone to sparkle at the maximum and it should not be possible to see any inclusions. Further is the carat weight, which means that the larger Ruby is extremely rare and as a result more costly. It is also necessary to check the origin of the stone as very often Burmese stones are considered to be the best. Last but not the least, it’s always important to buy your jewelry from a reputable jeweler and ask for more information regarding certification of the jewelry.