Recognized by the American Gem Society as one of August’s birthstones, spinel has a lower Mohs hardness compared to ruby and sapphire.
Its various color options and octahedral crystal habit are what make it a desirable jewelry gemstone.
Typical colors include vivid red, cobalt blue, bright pink, bright orange, violet, purple, green, brown, gray, and black
As part of the cubic crystal system, its octahedral crystal habit and single refraction set it apart from other gemstones
Typically contains magnesium and aluminum
Along with being more affordable yet rare, spinel has typically been confused with ruby up until 1783. So, what makes the spinel gem stand out?
In fact, the method of distinguishing spinel from ruby is what gave birth to the science of gemology.
Spinel may be the right choice if:
Spinel is commonly chosen for:
Spinel is found in several regions, each with their own unique characteristics. When it comes to gemstones, origin can influence not only color but also its price.
A famous location for producing some of the finest red spinel but often mistaken for rubies.
Sri Lanka has long been an important source of spinel.
This country is also home to notable mines that have yielded stunning spinel specimens.
More recently discovered deposits in this country have added vivid blue spinel to the deep red, pink, purple, violet, and violet-blue hues it produces.
Mines here produce pink, orangy-red, blue, and purple hues of this birthstone.
Vibrant colors of spinel form here in magnesium-rich marble.
Produces high-quality spinel, mostly in deep shades of blue.
Understanding these factors helps you choose the right spinel during your search.
Color: While the paler shades can be more affordable, the most sought-after colors include bright red, vivid pink, orange, and cobalt blue.
Clarity: Spinel typically has inclusions visible to the eye, so those with few to no inclusions command premium prices.
Cut: Spinel is typically cut into faceted cushion and oval shapes or carved into cabochons, and it exudes brilliance when properly proportioned.
Carat Weight: It’s rare for spinel to go beyond five carats, and it’s often cut to non-standard sizes to retain the maximum carat weight from its original rough.
Spinel is a hard, durable gemstone that has historically been mistaken for rubies and sapphires. With its stunning physical properties and color variations, this makes it a practical choice for everyday jewelry.
The history of natural spinel is not only rich but also intertwined with royalty. Mines in central and southeast Asia would find what is now known as, “Balas rubies,” and were treasured by emperors and kings during wars.
Some famous spinels throughout time include the “Black Prince’s ruby” in England’s Imperial State Crown, the Prince of Wales’s “Black Prince’s Ruby” in 1367, and the “Timur Ruby.”
Spinel is often associated with passion, energy, and revitalization, but each color has its own meaning.
