Gem Index Spinel Background red

Spinel

Gem Index - Spinel

"Over the past couple of years Spinel has been an unexpected standout gemstone in my work. Often described as 'the great imposter' for its staggering likeness to ruby in its red varieties, for me it was the enchanting grey hues that grabbed my attention and drew me in..."

MOIRA PATIENCE

gem index spinel

What are Spinels?

Until recently, spinel was a relatively unknown and underrated gemstone.

With their stunning depth of colour and durability, they're a great choice for an engagement ring and can handle being worn every day. Spinel is also the newest birthstone for August.

Spinel

Mineral

8

Hardness (out of 10)

August

Birthstone

22nd

Anniversary

Moira Patience Spinel and diamond engagement ring

Where do Spinels come from?

Spinels are found on every continent, even Antarctica. However, the traditional sources of gem-quality spinels are Afghanistan, Myanmar (Burma), and Sri Lanka. They are also found in gravel beds in Tanzania and Madagascar, and marble deposits in Vietnam.

Moira Patience art deco Spinel and diamond engagement ring

Hardness

Spinel is around 8/10 on the Mohs hardness scale; It's a tough gemstone with good resistance to knocks and scratches. Spinels also have a high refractive index, which means a well-cut gem will have excellent brilliance regardless of the colour.

Moira Patience Spinel and diamond engagement ring

Myths & Legends

Since spinel is a newly recognised gem there’s not as much folklore and legend surrounding its powers. It has however,been associated with sorcerers and alchemists and there's reference to its use to protect the wearer from fire.


Spinel also contains a magnetic mineral Magnetite, which is believed to have been used by ancient mariners to help with navigation.

Moira Patience red Spinel and diamond engagement ring

Colour

Historically, red spinels are the most celebrated. However, spinels can range from strong, deep colours to very light pastels and come in hues of pink, lavender, red, orange, purple, blue, and even black.


Colourless spinels are very rare and you don't really get pure green or yellow stones.

Moira Patience floral Spinel and opal engagement ring

The Great Imposter

Spinel has been confused with sapphire and ruby for more than a millennium. Perhaps the world's most famous gemstone, The Black Prince’s Ruby set in the British crown jewels dates back to 1366 AD. However, it's not a ruby; it's actually an enormous 170ct red spinel.

Any questions about Spinels?


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craftsmanship ruby and diamond ring in the workshop in Scotland

Craftsmanship

Moira Patience gemstones in the workshop

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