Spinel

Spinel is a hard vitreous magnesium aluminum oxide that has been used as a gemstone for centuries. The beauty of spinel has caused it to be mistaken for ruby and sapphire in the past. However, spinel deserves to be recognized as a gemstone that is worthy of appreciation in its own right. Spinel occurs in a range of colors, such as rose pink to rich red; lavender to deep violet; light to deep blue, orange, yellow, brown and black.

The name spinel is thought to have come from either the Latin word, “spina”, meaning thorn, due to its pointed crystal form, or the Greek word for “spark”, in reference to its bright color. Spinel has been mined for centuries and one of the most famous historical spinel gemstones is known as “the Black Prince’s Ruby”. As the name suggests, this is a red gemstone, which was thought to be a ruby. The “Black Prince’s Ruby” was acquired by Edward, Prince of Wales in 1367. It is set into England’s state crown and is held at the Tower of London.

Spinel Color

The rarest and most desirable spinel gemstones are vivid ruby-like red, followed by cobalt blue, bright pink and bright orange. Paler colors such as lavender tend to be more affordable. Other popular colors include black spinel, violet-blue, greenish-blue, grayish, mauve, yellow, brown and pink spinel.

Spinel Clarity and Luster

Good quality spinel gemstones should have no visible inclusions. Inclusions typically decrease the value of spinel gemstones. However, desirable inclusions can result in asterism (the star effect). Inclusions in spinel can resemble its octahedral crystal structure or a human fingerprint. Spinel has a vitreous luster.

Spinel Cut and Shape

Spinel can be seen in faceted shapes such as octagons, trillions, squares, rounds and fancy shapes, such as ovals, pears and cushions. Vividly colored spinel gemstones are rare in sizes over 5 carats. Translucent to opaque stones are often cut en cabochon. Rare star spinel is cut en cabochon to display the asterism.

Spinel Jewelry

Spinel is incredibly versatile due to its variety of colors and sizes. It is ideal for almost any type of jewelry, such as spinel rings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets, hair pins and other beautiful ornaments. Those planning to use spinel gemstones in jewelry should first consider their preferred color. The choice of spinel colors is great, with yellow, orange, blue, red, purple, brown, black and pink possibilities. Spinel gemstones look equally impressive when set in white or yellow precious metals. Art Deco styles and high jewelry designers such as Dior, Louis Vuitton, Harry Winston and Chanel use spinel gemstones along with other colored gemstones or diamonds. More simple but dramatic jewelry can be designed with black spinel and white gemstones such as sapphires.

Source: Gem Select