Crystal Morphology

Facet-quality Mong Hsu rubies are typically well-terminated, barrel-shaped crystals. Another form is extremely flat, possibly due to growth in narrow veins. Crystals with this morphology, in general, are not useful for jewelry purposes.

A well-formed Mong Hsu crystal consists of two hexagonal dipyramids, positive rhombohedron, and the basal pinacoid, as illustrated by this 5-mm sample. Note the violet color.