What is Pigeon Blood Ruby?

Of all the terms in the colored gemstone world, few carry more weight than Pigeon Blood. It appears on certificates, drives prices to extraordinary levels, and is frequently misused by sellers who know it commands attention.

Where the term comes from

Pigeon Blood is a trade designation with roots in the traditional Burmese gemstone market. It describes a very specific shade of red — pure and vivid, with a slight blue undertone. GRS pioneered the formal use of the term in 1996. For a ruby to qualify it must meet strict chemical and optical criteria: high chromium content, low iron, vivid red saturation, and medium to strong fluorescence under UV light. SSEF and Gübelin have historically granted the designation only to unheated stones from Burma, while GRS applies it based on color regardless of origin.

What it means for price

Certified Pigeon Blood rubies represent fewer than 1% of all rubies on the market. The designation alone significantly increases a stone's value. Unheated Pigeon Blood rubies from Burma command the highest premiums of all.

What to watch for

The phrase "pigeon blood color" without a GRS or Gübelin certificate is marketing language, not a grading. The designation only carries meaning on an independent laboratory report.