A ruby is a gemstone composed of corundum, a mineral form of aluminum oxide. Its color varies from a deep crimson or purple, to pale rose. It is one of the most valuable gemstones and can be found in Myanmar, Thailand, and Sri Lanka.
Used as an adjective, the word “ruby” implies a deep or dark red color.
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Bibliography:
"ruby." The Columbia Encyclopedia, 6th ed.. 2013. Encyclopedia.com. Web. 10 Jan. 2014. <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.
Elizabeth Knowles. "ruby." The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 2006. Encyclopedia.com. Web. 10 Jan. 2014. <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.