Skopje, 9 October 2025 (MIA) - The Ministry of Energy, Mining and Mineral Resources has endorsed an initiative to protect the Macedonian ruby.

Energy Minister Sanja Bozhinovska said Thursday the goal is to ensure the official status of the Macedonian ruby as a protected national mineral heritage, and legal protection of its origin.

The Macedonian ruby is found only in marble mines near Prilep and Mariovo, and is the only ruby in Europe that is naturally mined and processed. It is currently sold as part of jewellery.

"We believe that the ruby ​​should be protected, and we should turn it into a brand that makes us recognizable," Minister Bozhinovska said at Thursday's press briefing.

Photo: MIA archive