The world of gemstones is filled with treasures that captivate the imagination and inspire awe. Among these dazzling gems, the Carmen Lucia Ruby stands out as one of the most stunning and famous rubies ever discovered. Nestled within the hallowed halls of the Smithsonian Institution, this extraordinary gemstone tells a story of natural beauty, historical significance, and human craftsmanship. In this article, we will explore the Carmen Lucia Ruby through its size specifications, origin story, acquisition history, and its current public display.
Size Specifications – A Gemstone of Unparalleled Magnitude
The Carmen Lucia Ruby is a gem of remarkable size and quality, making it a standout in the world of rubies. Weighing an impressive 23.10 carats, this ruby is one of the largest faceted Burmese rubies in the world. Its vivid “pigeon’s blood” red hue—a color highly prized in the gemstone market—places it in the uppermost echelon of rubies.
What sets the Carmen Lucia Ruby apart is not only its size but also its exceptional clarity. Rubies of this magnitude often contain inclusions, but this gemstone boasts superior transparency and brilliance. These attributes make it a true rarity, as rubies of this size and quality are exceedingly scarce.
The combination of size, vibrant color, and clarity ensures that the Carmen Lucia Ruby is not just a gemstone but a masterpiece of nature. It is widely recognized as one of the finest rubies in the Smithsonian’s National Gem and Mineral Collection, where it dazzles millions of visitors each year.
Origin Story – From the Mines of Burma to Global Renown
The Carmen Lucia Ruby traces its origins to the legendary ruby mines of Mogok, Burma (modern-day Myanmar). These mines have long been celebrated for producing some of the world’s most exquisite rubies. The Mogok Valley is famous for its unique geological conditions, which give rise to “pigeon’s blood” rubies—a term used to describe their rich, deep red hue with a hint of blue undertone.
Discovered in the mid-20th century, the Carmen Lucia Ruby was extracted under challenging conditions. Burmese rubies of this caliber are formed under immense heat and pressure over millions of years, making each one a geological marvel. The gemstone’s journey from the depths of the earth to its eventual home in the Smithsonian is a testament to the allure and enduring value of these precious stones.
The ruby’s name honors Carmen Lucia Buck, the late wife of Dr. Peter Buck, who donated the gem to the Smithsonian in her memory. Mrs. Buck, who was originally from Brazil, had a deep appreciation for beauty and art, making the ruby a fitting tribute to her legacy.
Acquisition History – A Gift of Love and Legacy
The Carmen Lucia Ruby’s journey to the Smithsonian Institution is as captivating as the gemstone itself. In 2004, Dr. Peter Buck, a physicist and philanthropist, donated the ruby in memory of his beloved wife, Carmen Lucia. Dr. Buck was not only a scientist but also one of the co-founders of Subway, the global restaurant franchise. His generous contribution to the Smithsonian was both a personal gesture of love and a recognition of the ruby’s cultural and historical significance.
Dr. Buck’s decision to donate the ruby was inspired by his late wife’s appreciation for fine art and jewelry. Carmen Lucia Buck had battled breast cancer and passed away in 2003. The ruby stands as a lasting tribute to her life, her beauty, and her spirit. By donating the gemstone, Dr. Buck ensured that it would be preserved and appreciated by the public for generations to come.
The Smithsonian’s National Gem and Mineral Collection, housed at the National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C., was the ideal home for such a treasure. The Carmen Lucia Ruby joined an illustrious collection that includes other famous gemstones, such as the Hope Diamond and the Logan Sapphire.
Public Display – A Star of the Smithsonian
Today, the Carmen Lucia Ruby is prominently displayed at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. It is part of the museum’s celebrated Gem Gallery, which attracts millions of visitors annually.
The ruby is mounted in a platinum ring and surrounded by sparkling diamonds, further enhancing its beauty. The exhibit provides detailed information about the gemstone’s size, origin, and history, allowing visitors to appreciate its significance. Its vivid red hue and brilliant sparkle make it a focal point of the gallery, drawing admirers from around the world.
The Smithsonian’s decision to display the Carmen Lucia Ruby aligns with its mission to educate and inspire. By showcasing this gem, the museum highlights the geological processes that create such wonders and the cultural significance of gemstones throughout history. For many visitors, seeing the Carmen Lucia Ruby in person is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—a chance to witness one of nature’s most extraordinary creations.
Famous Rubies – The Carmen Lucia Ruby in Context
The Carmen Lucia Ruby holds its own among the world’s famous rubies. Other notable examples include the Sunrise Ruby, a 25.59-carat Burmese ruby that fetched a record-breaking price at auction, and the DeLong Star Ruby, a 100.32-carat star ruby housed in the American Museum of Natural History. While each of these rubies has its own unique story, the Carmen Lucia Ruby stands out for its combination of size, clarity, and its touching backstory as a symbol of love and remembrance.
The Smithsonian’s collection of famous gemstones is unparalleled, and the addition of the Carmen Lucia Ruby has only strengthened its reputation as a global leader in gemology. The ruby’s presence in the collection underscores the enduring allure of Burmese rubies and their status as some of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.
Conclusion
The Carmen Lucia Ruby is more than just a gemstone; it is a symbol of beauty, love, and legacy. With its impressive size of 23.10 carats, its origins in the famed Mogok mines of Burma, and its touching acquisition story, this ruby has captured the hearts of gemstone enthusiasts and casual admirers alike. Now housed in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, it continues to inspire and educate millions of visitors each year.
As one of the most famous rubies in the world, the Carmen Lucia Ruby represents the pinnacle of natural artistry and human appreciation. Its vivid red hue, exceptional clarity, and rich history make it a true treasure, ensuring its place among the pantheon of legendary gemstones. Whether viewed as a marvel of nature or as a heartfelt tribute, the Carmen Lucia Ruby remains one of America’s most stunning and celebrated jewels.