Plain English
What it means
Ruby and sapphire are varieties of corundum.
Why it matters
Variety names connect gem usage to mineral species.
Evidence
References
- 1GIA Gem Identification: Introduction
Gemological Institute of America
Open source
Mineralogical Concept · Reviewed definition
Mineral Variety
A named variation within a mineral species, commonly distinguished by color, optical effect, or another characteristic.[1]
Also known as: Gem Variety