SPINEL GEMSTONE
Celebrate the brilliance of spinel, a gemstone that shines in every color. From fiery reds to enchanting blues and pinks, spinel has captivated jewelry lovers and collectors for centuries. Naturally durable and often untreated, it remains one of the most authentic choices for those who value beauty in its purest form.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
IMPORTANCE
Why Are Spinel So Important?
Spinel is highly valued for its vibrant colors, brilliance, and versatility. Historically, spinel has often been mistaken for ruby and sapphire, especially in famous crown jewels, highlighting its visual similarity to these renowned gemstones. Spinel is essential for its aesthetic appeal and its rarity and significance as a birthstone for August. Its vibrant colors—ranging from vivid reds and pinks to blues, oranges, and even black—make it a unique and versatile gemstone that continues to gain popularity among collectors and jewelers.
VALUE
Determining Spinel Value
Spinel’s value is determined by several factors: color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. Let’s break these factors down: Â
COLOR
Color is the most important factor in spinel’s value, with vivid reds, intense pinks, and vibrant blues being the most prized. Burmese red spinels can rival the finest rubies, while Tanzanian blues and Mahenge pinks are highly sought after. Though less costly, black spinel is admired for its sleek, jet-black look.
Clarity
Spinel is usually eye-clean, giving it a high clarity rating. Inclusions appear more in larger stones but rarely affect value unless they reduce transparency or brilliance. Eye-clean red, pink, and blue spinels are especially prized.
Cut
The cut of a spinel enhances its brilliance and overall appeal. Spinel is often faceted in oval, cushion, and round shapes to maximize light reflection. High-quality cuts can bring out the best in a spinel’s color and clarity, adding to its value. A well-cut spinel will show vibrant flashes of color and sparkle.
Carat
Carat weight also influences the value of spinel. Larger stones are rarer and thus more valuable, especially when combined with vibrant color and high clarity. Larger red or blue spinels can command prices comparable to those of rubies and sapphires.Â
Origin of Spinel Gemstone
Spinel is mined worldwide, with key sources in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan—Burma historically producing famed red spinels often mistaken for rubies. Tanzania has become a major supplier, especially the neon-pink Mahenge spinel, while Vietnam, Tajikistan, and Thailand (notably black spinel) are also important sources.
QUALITY GRADES
Different Grades of Spinel
Spinels are graded based on their color intensity, clarity, and overall appearance:
- AAA (Top Grade):
- AA (Fine Grade):
- A (Commercial Grade):
Top-quality stones with intense color, excellent clarity, and precise cut.
High-quality stones with slightly less intense color and minor inclusions.
Commercial-quality stones with visible inclusions and less vibrant color.
Storage
Caring for Spinel
Spinel is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear. However, to maintain its brilliance and luster, follow these care tips:
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Spinel should not come into contact with harsh chemicals like bleach or household cleaners, as they can damage the stone.
- Clean Regularly
Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush to clean your spinel. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners for spinels with inclusions, as these could exacerbate internal flaws.
- Store Properly
When not in use, store your spinel jewelry separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
IDEAL CHOICE
Who Can Wear Spinel?
Spinel is a versatile gemstone that anyone can wear. It is trendy among those who seek to boost their energy, vitality, and passion. Spinel is associated with the root chakra, helping to ground and stabilize one’s emotions. It’s also the birthstone for August, making it an ideal gift for those born in that month. Additionally, spinel’s wide range of colors makes it an excellent option for people looking to express their individuality and style through their jewelry.
Difference
How Does Spinel Compare to Other Gemstones?
- Spinel vs. Black Tourmaline
Black tourmaline is a striking gemstone admired for its deep, opaque color and natural appeal. However, when compared to spinel, it lacks the brilliance and wide range of colors that make spinel truly exceptional. Spinel not only offers captivating beauty and durability but is also often untreated, making it a more versatile and desirable choice for fine jewelry.
- Black Spinel vs. Black Diamond
Black spinel offers a strikingly similar look to black diamond but at a more affordable price. Black diamonds tend to have inclusions, while black spinels are typically eye-clean with a more consistent, glossy black color. Spinel is also easier to find in larger sizes.
- Blue Spinel vs. Sapphire
Blue spinel, especially the rare Tanzanian cobalt blue variety, can closely resemble sapphire in color. However, spinel is generally less expensive than sapphire and is not treated to enhance its color. Blue spinels can be an excellent alternative for those seeking a vibrant blue gemstone at a more affordable price.
Properties
Spinel Properties
- Astrological Benefits of Brazilian Spinel:
Spinel is believed to promote vitality, rejuvenation, and protection. It is associated with the zodiac sign Leo and is said to bring strength and energy to its wearer. Spinel also corresponds to the root chakra, making it ideal for grounding and emotional stability.
- August Month Gemstone Spinel
Spinel was added as an official birthstone for August 2016, and the honor was shared with Peridot. Its wide range of colors and rarity make it a desirable alternative for those born in August.
- Metaphysical Properties
Spinel is believed to inspire energy, passion, and optimism. Different colors of spinel are said to have various metaphysical properties. For example, red spinel boosts vitality and courage, while blue spinel promotes calm and communication.
- Spinel Healing Properties
Spinel is said to have a revitalizing effect on both the body and mind. It is believed to help alleviate fatigue, improve stamina, and enhance physical strength. Emotionally, spinel is thought to ease stress and encourage a positive outlook.
SELECTION
How to Choose Spinel?
When choosing a spinel gemstone, consider the following factors:
1. Spinel Color Guide
- Red
The most valuable and sought-after color, comparable to ruby.
- Pink
Bright neon-pink hues, particularly from Mahenge, are highly prized.
- Blue
Vibrant cobalt blue spinels are rare and rival sapphires in beauty.
- White Topaz
Colorless and brilliant, a more affordable alternative to diamonds.
- Black
Sleek and glossy, black spinel is a popular choice for modern jewelry designs.
Consider clarity, carat size, and the stone's cut when selecting a spinel. Eye-clean stones with minimal inclusions are more valuable, and well-cut stones will maximize the gem’s brilliance.
TREATMENT
Spinel Treatment
Unlike many other gemstones, spinel is typically not treated or enhanced. Its natural color is one of its key selling points. Some lower-grade stones may occasionally undergo heat treatment to improve color, but such treatments are rare and usually disclosed. The lack of common treatments makes natural spinel a more valuable option compared to other gemstones that frequently undergo enhancement processes.
TYPES
Variety of Spinel
Spinel comes in a range of varieties, each distinguished by its unique color and origin:
- Mahenge Spinel
Discovered in Tanzania, Mahenge spinels are famous for their neon-like pink and red hues. These stones have become highly sought after due to their vivid color and rarity.
- Narsipatnam Pink Spinel
This variety comes from the Narsipatnam region of India and is valued for its beautiful soft pink color. Narsipatnam spinels are known for their exceptional clarity and pastel pink hues, making them famous for delicate jewelry designs.
- Tanzanian Platinum Spinel
This rare variety features a silvery or steely blue hue reminiscent of platinum. Tanzanian platinum spinel is an uncommon and unique option for those seeking something different from traditional gemstone colors.
- Thai Black Spinel
Known for its deep, glossy black appearance, Thai black spinel is a popular choice for modern and minimalist jewelry. It offers an affordable alternative to black diamonds, with excellent durability and luster.
- Tanzanian Blue Spinel
Tanzanian blue spinels, especially those with an intense cobalt blue hue, are some of the most coveted spinels. These stones can rival sapphires in beauty and are incredibly rare, making them highly valuable.
Spinel Facts
MOHS HARDNESS
8
COLORS
Known for its rich, vibrant hues ranging from red, pink, blue, violet, purple, orange, and black. The most prized are vivid red and cobalt blue.
TREATMENT
May undergo additional treatment to improve its brilliance.
ORIGINS
Found in several regions, including Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and Tanzania.Â
Spinel FAQs
Q. What is Spinel?
A. Spinel is a durable gemstone in various colors, including red, blue, pink, and purple. It is a naturally occurring mineral often mistaken for more famous gems like ruby and sapphire due to its similar appearance.
Q. Is spinel a natural or synthetic gemstone?
A. Spinel occurs naturally, but synthetic spinel is also produced for use in industrial applications and as an affordable alternative to other gemstones. Natural spinel is more valuable and highly prized in fine jewelry.
Q. What is the significance of spinel in jewelry?
A. Spinel has been historically valued for its vibrant colors and brilliance. It is often used in fine jewelry as an alternative to more expensive stones like rubies and sapphires. Its durability makes it suitable for everyday wear.
Q. How should spinel be cared for?
A. Spinel is a hard gemstone (rating 8 on the Mohs scale), making it resistant to scratches. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals and extreme heat to preserve its color and clarity.
Q. What are the metaphysical properties of spinel?
A. Spinel is said to have energizing and revitalizing properties. It is believed to encourage inspiration, reduce stress, and promote a sense of rejuvenation. Different colors of spinel are also thought to carry specific healing energies.