Spinel is a particularly historical gemstone which dates back several centuries. It comes in many splendid colors, in many peoples eyes the red Spinel stands out above the rest. Known as the great imposter of gemstones, the red Spinel has been mistaken for ruby on several occasions. The British crown jewels harbor a magnificent Spinel of astronomical size which was thought to be a ruby due to its remarkable similarities in color and mineral contents. It is the famous “Black Princes Ruby” which is in fact a truly amazing red Spinel. Weighing an unbelievable 170 carats it sits proudly in the Queens state crown. This Spinel is absolutely priceless given its history, awesome color and clarity.

 The name Spinel derives from the Latin word “spina” which means thorn as this gem has sharp octahedral crystals. Spinels and rubies are particularly similar in their respective chemical make up. Both have aluminum oxide content while the Spinel also has magnesium content. Also both of these fine gems have the element chromium in them which is what produces such vigorous colors. By no means is the Spinel limited to just one color, there is also the rare blue Spinel which has adopted the name “Colbat blue”, the best Colbat Blue Spinal can be found in Sri Lanka and who can forget the sumptuous and  beautiful pink variety found in Burma (Myanmar). Also on todays market you can find beautiful purple/violet, orange (known as flame) and other paler or richer varieties of the above mentioned Spinels. This unique gem in its own right also originates from various other parts of the world. Africa is noted as mining some good stones.

 Spinel is a very durable gemstone with a hardness of 8 on the Moh’s scale which evaluates the hardness of gems, it is one of the most consolidated stones available. With its many colors and shades this remarkable gem has a place in everyone’s heart and is definitely suitable for prolonged wear in any type of jewelry. Whatever your reasons for admiring these wonders of nature they are sure to give you maximum satisfaction for years to come. The pictures of this stone cannot due it a justice, it really is superb in real life and has a brilliance and color that is there to be admired. Thank you for taking the time to read our detailed description, we hope it has been informative and helpful for you.