Spinel
Spinel is one of the most underrated gemstones in the world. For centuries, it was mistaken for ruby — some of the most famous "rubies" in royal crown jewels are actually spinels. Today, spinel is increasingly recognised for its vibrant colours, excellent hardness, and exceptional brilliance.
Quick Facts
Colour
Available in red, pink, blue, lavender, violet, orange, and black.
Hardness
8 on the Mohs scale.
Origins
Myanmar produces the finest red and pink spinels.
Lustre
Vitreous lustre with excellent brilliance due to single refraction.
What is Spinel?
Spinel is a magnesium aluminium oxide mineral that occurs in a wide range of colours. It forms in the same geological environments as ruby and sapphire, which is why they were historically confused. Spinel is singly refractive (like diamond and garnet), which gives it a clean, pure colour and excellent brilliance. Unlike ruby and sapphire, spinel is almost never treated or enhanced — the colours you see are entirely natural. At 8 on the Mohs scale, spinel is harder than most coloured gemstones and ideal for all types of jewellery.
Properties
Colour
Available in red, pink, blue, lavender, violet, orange, and black. Red spinel can closely resemble ruby. Cobalt-blue spinel from Vietnam and Tanzania displays a vivid, electric blue. Pink and lavender spinels are popular and more affordable.
Hardness
8 on the Mohs scale. Very durable — harder than emerald, tourmaline, and garnet. Excellent for engagement rings and everyday wear.
Origins
Myanmar produces the finest red and pink spinels. Vietnam and Tanzania yield exceptional cobalt-blue stones. Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, and Madagascar are also significant sources.
Lustre
Vitreous lustre with excellent brilliance due to single refraction. Well-cut spinels display a lively, clean sparkle. Spinel's optical properties are similar to diamond in some respects.
Varieties
Red spinel from Myanmar can rival ruby in colour and commands significant prices. Cobalt-blue spinel, coloured by cobalt rather than iron, displays a neon-like blue that is highly sought after. Jedi spinel is a vivid pinkish-red from Myanmar. "Hot pink" spinel is one of the most popular varieties, offering a bright, saturated pink. Lavender spinel provides a soft purple option. Grey spinel has emerged as a trendy, modern choice for engagement rings. Black spinel is used as an alternative to black diamond.
History
Spinel's history is intertwined with mistaken identity. The Black Prince's Ruby, a 170-carat red spinel set in the British Imperial State Crown, was believed to be a ruby for over 600 years. The Timur Ruby, another large red spinel in the Crown Jewels, carries the same misidentification. It was only in 1783 that mineralogist Jean Baptiste Louis Rome de Lisle identified spinel as a distinct mineral separate from ruby. In 2016, spinel was officially added as an August birthstone, giving it long-overdue recognition.
Meaning & Symbolism
Spinel symbolises revitalisation, energy, and encouragement. It is associated with renewed hope, positive thinking, and perseverance. Red spinel is linked to vitality and passion, while blue spinel is connected to calm and communication. The stone's history of being valued under another name has given it a symbolic association with inner worth and authentic identity.
How to Care for Spinel
Spinel is one of the easiest coloured gemstones to care for. Clean with warm soapy water, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners. No special precautions are needed. Store separately from diamond and sapphire, which could scratch it. Spinel is excellent for daily-wear rings, earrings, pendants, and bracelets.
Spinel Jewellery Ideas
Red spinel offers ruby-like beauty for engagement rings at more accessible prices, with the added benefit of being naturally untreated. Cobalt-blue spinel makes show-stopping statement rings and pendants with a colour unlike anything else. Hot pink spinel in rose gold is a contemporary, romantic choice. Grey spinel is an on-trend alternative centre stone for minimalist engagement rings. Spinel's durability makes it suitable for every type of jewellery.