The traditional August birthstones are peridot and sardonyx but in 2016 the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) and Jewelers of America (JA) made the decision to include spinel. Spinel is a gemstone that has been historically mistaken for ruby (mineral: corundum). It wasn’t until a few hundred years ago that minerologists were able to make the distinction. While the red color of both ruby and spinel look very much the same, they are different minerals.
Spinels are often overlooked. They are beautiful, durable, and come in a variety of colors, but are best known for their reds, pinks, purples, and rare vivid blues-colored by cobalt. Spinel is a favorite of the staff at Olufson Designs, as well as the collectors who shop with us.
Spinel: A Gemstone Worth Discovering
For centuries, spinel was often mistaken for other valuable stones. Many famous “rubies” in royal collections, including the legendary 170 carat Black Prince’s Ruby in the British Crown Jewels, the 352 carat Timur Ruby, and the 398 carat Catherine the Great’s Ruby (all historically misidentified), were later identified as magnificent spinels. This historical case of mistaken identity only adds to its intriguing story, highlighting just how closely its beauty can rival its more famous cousin.
So, what makes spinel such a compelling gemstone?
A Spectrum of Sensation: One of spinel’s most captivating features is its incredible color range. While red spinels are particularly prized and can closely mimic the vibrant hues of rubies, you’ll also find them in breathtaking shades of pink, orange, purple, blue, and even black. The blues can range from a delicate periwinkle to a deep, inky sapphire-like tone, often with a subtle grayish modifier that gives them a unique allure. Greens are rarer, and some spinels even exhibit a mesmerizing color change phenomenon under different lighting conditions. This vast palette means there’s a spinel to suit every taste and style.
Brilliance and Durability: Beyond its captivating colors, spinel possesses excellent optical properties. It has a high refractive index, meaning it sparkles with an impressive fire and brilliance. On the Mohs scale of hardness, spinel scores an 8, making it a very durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. This makes it a fantastic choice for engagement rings, pendants, earrings, and any piece of jewelry destined to be cherished for years to come.
An Ethical Choice: For those concerned about ethical sourcing, spinel offers another compelling advantage. It’s found in various locations around the world, including Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Vietnam, and Pakistan. Its diverse origins often make it easier to source spinels responsibly, providing a more transparent supply chain for conscious consumers.
A Smart Investment: While high-quality red and cobalt blue spinels can command significant prices, many other colors of spinel are still relatively affordable compared to their ruby or sapphire counterparts of similar quality. This makes spinel an excellent option for those seeking a beautiful and durable gemstone often without the premium price tag. As awareness of spinel’s beauty and value continues to grow, it’s increasingly being recognized as a savvy choice in the world of gemstones.
Next time you’re considering a new piece of jewelry, don’t overlook the magnificent spinel. Its rich history, stunning variety of colors, impressive brilliance, and excellent durability make it a truly exceptional gemstone, deserving of its moment in the spotlight. Discover the understated elegance of spinel and add a touch of unique sparkle to your collection.