Advice on Rubies

[Bismar]

Hi all,
Long time lurker, first time poster.

I am in the process of source a ruby for an E-ring but my understanding of value is quite limited, even after spending countless hours reading here and the wider internet.

I was wondering if I could get some opinions on some gems I've viewed and their corresponding price tags?

The photos are somewhat average as I took them in person. Gem 1 and 2 are set in rings which the jeweller does not mind removing. Gem 1 and 2 are with quite bright indoor halogen downlights.

I like Gem 2 as it is slightly cheaper, and is rounder. Its quite red, not as deep red as Gem 1 but redder than most African gems I've seen. It does appear to have a window as apparent by what I think is an extinction when viewed on black felt. On white felt, it seems to disappears and you can see the inclusion instead.

Gem 1 is much prettier, and I could probably afford to go for it.

Gem 3 is pretty flat, but that might be to do with the interior lighting. Its an African gem.

 

[normanintheskywithsapphires]

I think without prices there is no basis for judgement. The specialists here need to have more data. at minimum sizes, treatment and prices.

 

[Bismar]

Sorry for the confusion, sizes and price is in the picture.

Gem 3 is supposedly unheated.

 

[theredspinel]

You probably know all this but just reiterating for the sake of it:

Rule number one of gemstone buying. *Trust no one's word*!

Unless a *credible* independent lab say's so, then take it as a lie.

Rule number two... find a reliable and trustworthy source.

Then start analysing the gems.