Did you know that “Pigeon Blood Ruby” is one of the rarest types of ruby in the world? With its deep, vivid red hue—resembling the color of a pigeon’s blood—it is incredibly captivating and highly sought after. In fact, only about 1% of all rubies fall into this category.

Many people mistakenly believe that Pigeon Blood Rubies must come exclusively from Myanmar. In reality, that’s not true. Let’s explore the facts and uncover some fascinating insights about this extraordinary gemstone.

Why Are Pigeon Blood Rubies So Popular?

Pigeon Blood Ruby is known for its intense red color with a slight pinkish undertone. This striking color is caused by the presence of chromium within the ruby, which gives it a glowing, almost “alive” appearance.

The popularity of Pigeon Blood Rubies comes down to four key factors:
beauty, rarity, symbolism, and value.

They are often believed to represent power, passion, love, and good fortune—making them not only visually stunning but also meaningful.

Do Pigeon Blood Rubies Only Come from Myanmar?

Although Myanmar—especially the Mogok region—is historically famous for producing exceptional rubies, Pigeon Blood Rubies are not limited to one country.

They have also been discovered in places such as:

• Mozambique
• Sri Lanka
• Tanzania
• Thailand (notably in Chanthaburi and Trat)

The term “Pigeon Blood” is actually a commercial color description, not a scientific classification. This means a ruby can be called “Pigeon Blood” regardless of its origin—as long as it meets specific criteria.

In 1996, the Swiss Gemmological Institute SSEF established a standardized system for ruby color grading.

To qualify as a Pigeon Blood Ruby, a stone must meet strict requirements, including:

• Specific levels of chromium and iron
• A precise range of color (not too dark or too light)
• Strong fluorescence under UV light

This fluorescence enhances the ruby’s brilliance, making it appear more vibrant and luminous.

One of the Most Famous Pigeon Blood Rubies

A remarkable example is the Sunrise Ruby, weighing approximately 55.22 carats. It was auctioned by Sotheby's in 2015 for an astonishing $30 million USD, making it one of the most expensive rubies ever sold.

Pigeon Blood Rubies do not have to come from Myanmar. While Myanmar remains historically significant for producing some of the finest specimens, the label “Pigeon Blood” refers to color quality and characteristics—not geographic origin.