Aluminium Oxide Collection

Ruby and sapphire specimens C016 / 4860
Ruby and sapphire specimens. Crystals of ruby, the red variety of corundum (aluminium oxide). The other gemstones present here (blue-white) are sapphires. The rubies are from Burma

Sapphire crystal C013 / 6673
Sapphire crystal. Sapphire is a blue variety of corundum (aluminium oxide), the second hardest known mineral. Specimen from Olberg, Rheinland, Germany

Watch Movement, SEM
Part of a mechanical watch movement, coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). The image shows some of the jewels used as bearings in a wristwatch

Liroconite comprises of (hydrated copper aluminum arsenate hydroxide). It is blue in colour and forms from the oxidation of copper ores. Specimen from the collections of the Truro Museum, Cornwall

Faceted chrysoberyl
Two cut stones of the gemstone chrysoberyl (beryllium aluminum oxide). This stone is also known as cats eyes

Aluminium production
Aluminium smelting process. Schematic diagram of the production of aluminium metal from aluminium ore (bauxite). The first stage (left) is the Bayer Process to produce alumina (aluminium oxide)

Sapphire gemstones. Sapphires are a non-red variety of the mineral corundum (aluminium oxide). It is the second hardest mineral after diamond, rated 9 out of 10 on the Mohs scale

Ruby gemstones. Rubies are a red variety of the mineral corundum (aluminium oxide). It is the second hardest mineral after diamond, rated 9 out of 10 on the Mohs scale

Precious gemstones of ruby (red) and garnet (pink). Gemstones are solid crystalline substances (minerals), formed by natural processes, which are prized by collectors and used in jewellery

Ruby. The specimen at top has been polished the specimen at bottom is in its natural state. Ruby is a variety of corundum (aluminium oxide)

Corundum crystal structure, molecular model. Corundum (aluminium oxide, Al2O3) is the compound that forms rubies (when red) and sapphires (when blue or any other colour)

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Aluminium oxide, also known as alumina, is a versatile compound that finds its application in various fields. Its distinct properties make it an essential component in the production of precious gemstones like ruby and sapphire specimens C016/4860 and sapphire crystal C013/6673. These stunning gemstones owe their vibrant colors and durability to the presence of aluminium oxide. In addition to being used in gemstone production, aluminium oxide plays a crucial role in watch movements. When examined under a scanning electron microscope (SEM), its intricate structure can be observed, highlighting its significance in ensuring precise timekeeping. Another fascinating use can be seen in liroconite, where it contributes to the mineral's unique blue-green coloration. This rare mineral showcases how aluminium oxide adds aesthetic value to natural formations. Moreover, faceted chrysoberyl gems exhibit exceptional brilliance due to the incorporation during their formation process. The combination of this compound with other elements results in mesmerizing hues and extraordinary optical properties. Beyond its involvement in creating exquisite gemstones, aluminium oxide is extensively utilized in industrial applications such as aluminum production. As one of the primary components for refining bauxite ore into aluminum metal through electrolysis, it serves as a catalyst for efficient extraction processes. The importance of this compound cannot be overstated when discussing precious gemstones like sapphires and rubies. Their allure lies not only in their rarity but also their connection with nature's beauty – all thanks to the remarkable influence on these coveted treasures.