Spinel

Spinel has a very bad reputation of deceiving people as rubies for centuries. Many royal famous ornaments are mistaken to be studded with real rubies when Spinels were actually used. The most famous ‘Black Princes’ ruby, that decorates the Imperial State Crown of England actually bears a 170 carat red Spinel. It was only in the 16th century Spinel gained its individual status as a gemstone in Asia.

Pinkish red transparent gemstone is the jewelers and collectors most favored item for centuries. Its durability and hardness are perfect for its usage in jewelry making. Spinel is often found in oval, round and cushion shaped.

Spinel is available in many colors like, yellow, brown, black and violet. The name Spinel is derived from a Latin word meaning ‘thorn’ for which the shape of this gemstone might be held responsible.

The chemical formula of Spinel is MgAl2O4. Features like isometric crystal system, unclear cleavage, glassy luster and white streaks are essential part of the stone. This gemstone was formed after a basic rock in the earth’s crust had gone through a metamorphic change. The top layer of the earth’s crust is where the Spinel is mostly found like in the gemstone bearing gravels and in the lime stones.

Burma, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and some parts of Western Europe are the places where Spinel is found the most. Spinel has become very rare these days. This gemstone has become so rare these days that even its demand is decreasing day by day as people hardly get a chance to see and appreciate the magnificent stone.