Spinel is a captivating gemstone often mistaken for ruby or sapphire in history, thanks to its brilliant colors and high clarity. It’s a magnesium aluminum oxide mineral that forms in cubic (isometric) crystals, giving it excellent symmetry and sparkle.

Key points about spinel:

• Color: Naturally occurs in a wide range—vivid red, pink, orange, purple, blue, violet, and even black. The most valued is a pure, vibrant red that rivals fine ruby.

• Hardness: Durable at 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for daily wear.

• Clarity & Luster: Usually eye-clean with a bright vitreous luster, and it can take a very high polish.

• Sources: Found in Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Tanzania, and Afghanistan, often in the same gravel beds as corundum.

• History & Symbolism: Famous historical “rubies” such as the Black Prince’s Ruby in the British Crown Jewels are actually spinels. Symbolically linked to revitalization, energy, and harmony.

• Uses: Popular in fine jewelry and increasingly appreciated by collectors for its natural, untreated beauty—unlike many corundum stones, spinel is rarely enhanced.