corundum, Afghanistan.12, Tajikistan.12, geology.11, gems

While ruby is one of the most important gems, in the twentieth century little has been written about one of the premier sources of antiquity— Afghanistan. The following article is divided into two parts. The first describes the history of Afghanistan's ruby/spinel deposits. Important mines are located near Jagdalek and Gharan (Badakhshan). The latter is believed to be the original source of the balas ruby (spinel); many of the most famous spinels, such as the Timur Ruby and Black Prince's Ruby, possibly originated there. The second part deals with the gemmological characteristics of Jagdalek rubies.