14 Carat White Gold paired with 1.61 Carat Burmese Spinel & three 1.5mm Round Diamonds (VS) carefully set on a pendant

Spinel is a captivating gemstone that has been gaining recognition for its exceptional beauty and a wide range of vibrant colors. Found in various locations worldwide, spinel can be blue, pink, red, purple, orange, or even black. The most famous spinel deposits include those in Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Vietnam. Notably, spinels from Myanmar, particularly those from the Mogok region, are highly prized for their intense red hues, often mistaken for rubies in historical gem collections.

One of the outstanding qualities of spinel is its high refractive index, which gives it an incredible brilliance and sparkle. This gemstone is relatively durable, ranking 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making it suitable for various types of jewelry, including rings. Spinels are also known for their clarity, and many stones are free of visible inclusions, further enhancing their visual appeal. Additionally, spinel’s affordability relative to other colored gemstones with similar hues has contributed to its rising popularity among jewelry designers and collectors.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, spinel has a rich historical background. Some of the most famous spinels have been mistaken for other gemstones throughout history, underscoring the stone’s beauty and value. For example, the “Black Prince’s Ruby” and the “Timur Ruby” in the British Crown Jewels are actually large spinels. With its stunning color variety, excellent brilliance, and growing recognition in the gemstone market, spinel continues to carve out its niche as a gemstone of choice for those seeking unique and vibrant alternatives to more traditional gems.