The Macedonian ruby is part of our natural heritage; it has its own origin, specific properties, and story. It is our duty to transform this natural asset into a recognizable and protected Macedonian product, underpinned by clear rules, verified quality, and trust. We want the Macedonian ruby to be recognized and valued—first and foremost in Macedonia, then in the region, and, of course, on the international market. We want the name to be linked to its country of origin, and for its specific properties to be recognized and protected. We want every product bearing this name to convey the story of Macedonian nature, geology, tradition, and art, Macedonian Minister of Energy, Mining and Minerals Sanja Bozhinovska told a press conference Monday.
At the press conference presenting initiatives to protect and promote this unique stone, Bozhinovska announced that the Macedonian ruby would receive a certificate attesting to its origin, quality, and distinct properties, as well as a QR code; scanning this code will allow the user to access all the information contained in the certificate. The first code is expected to be ready by the end of October. The Minister emphasized that the name ‘Macedonian Ruby’ may be used only when specific conditions are met: when the origin is verified, documentation is in place, expert inspection has been conducted, and the product meets the criteria established by the technical dossier, the regulations, and the legal framework.
According to the minister, by establishing order and clear standards, the Macedonian Ruby has the opportunity to evolve into a recognizable national brand—a product that will create new economic opportunities for artisans, designers, processors, traders, and, of course, local communities.