Lúthien Tinúviel & the Istari

[Inziladun]

Originally Posted by Morthoron

It states quite clearly in the text that Cirdan only told Elrond and Galadriel of Gandalf's possession of Narya. For some reason, these three felt it better to withhold the information from Saruman, which is quite an interesting plot point. Galadriel, for her part, wanted Gandalf rather than Saruman to lead the White Council. It seems, even at the start, they did not fully trust Saruman in their hearts.

The UT essay on the Istari indicates Saruman at least had a strong suspicion Gandalf had Narya.

And the Grey Messenger took the Ring, and kept it ever secret; yet the White Messenger (who was skilled to uncover all secrets) after a time became aware of this gift, and begrudged it, and it was the beginning of the hidden ill-will that he bore to the Grey, which afterwards became manifest.

Saruman surely was not happy that fact had been kept from him. That probably fed his desire to act alone, and not keep the Council fully advised of his doings in looking for the One, even before he was dominated by Sauron and began to actively aid him.