DictionaryrubyRed gemstone
noun / adjective

ruby

ROO-bee/rˈubi/

A red gemstone consisting of corundum.

A faceted ruby catches the light against a plain white background.

A single loose, expertly faceted ruby, with rich crimson color, translucent facets and small sharp highlights, resting on white ground.
Etymology

The gem called rubi takes its name ultimately from a description meaning “red stone.” Its characteristic rich red color is thus the identifying feature preserved in the name.

In context

Todd Alan Studios2:14
if you want a large red stone, you're probably far better off with garnet than with with ruby.
Garnet Gemstones: The Ultimate Guide to Every Color & Variety

More examples

  • Her ring has a ruby surrounded by small diamonds.
  • The jeweler examines the rubies for cracks.
  • The leaves turn ruby red in the fall.

Forms

ruby · rubies

Similar words

garnet
Often a red gemstone, but not made of corundum.
sapphire
Another corundum gemstone, usually blue rather than red.