Throughout history Kings and Queens of all cultures have regarded the ruby as a symbol of wealth power and everlasting beauty. In the orient this gem was believed to possess special powers and being a good luck talisman protecting the wearer from evil. By the late 1700's the Burmese mines had been established as the worlds' premier source of the finest sapphires and rubies. As a result of its top quality gems the name Burma has become synonymous with top quality.

Fine gem quality rubies from Burma exceeding ten carats are very rare. As the appendix to the certificate from Gubelin for this stone describes:

"The natural ruby of 10.80 ct described in the above mentioned Gubelin Gem Lab Report possesses a richly saturated and homogeneous colour. In addition, this remarkable gemstone has been spared of thermal treatment
Such a combination of characteristics is rare in natural Burmese rubies of this size."