What is the lovely colourful gemstone Spinel?
Spinel is often found in the same mines as Corundum (Ruby and Sapphire), and it was only in the early 20th century that chemical differences were discovered between the two types of gemstones. In fact, several gemstones previously assumed to be Rubies in the British Crown Jewels are actually Spinels, including The Black Prince’s Ruby and the Timur Ruby.
Subsequently, as jewellery collectors were told some of their treasured rubies and sapphires were actually spinels, the stone’s reputation suffered.
Natural spinel, however, has always been a rare and beautiful gemstone. Now suddenly it’s the one everyone is side-eyeing like “wait… what is that glow?”
For those not yet initiated: Spinel is a naturally occurring gemstone with a Mohs hardness of 8–8.5 out of 10 (so yes, it’s absolutely engagement-ring worthy and durable enough to be worn every day). It comes in a seriously underrated colour range: Think vivid reds, soft lilacs, inky greys, electric blues, and everything in between.
It forms in places like Burma (Mogok), Vietnam (Luc Yen), Tanzania (Mahenge), Sri Lanka and beyond... but here’s the twist: truly fine, clean, large Spinels are getting harder to find every year. Which is exactly why collectors and gem dealers are quietly getting very excited about it!
Unlike many gems, Spinel is rarely treated, no heavy interventions, no over-processing drama. Just nature doing its thing (we love that for it). 🫶🏼
And if you’ve ever seen a great one up close, you’ll know exactly what I mean when I say it has this inner light... especially those moody greys with hints of mauve and blue… honestly a bit addictive.
So if the Spinel obsession is new to you, welcome to the club! I have some gorgeous spinel gems waiting for their next chapter in my shop!
If it’s already on your radar… you probably understand the obsession ✨
Caring for Spinel
Spinels are hard and durable gemstones. But to minimise scratching and wear, store each piece of fine jewellery separately in a soft cloth or padded container. Avoid exposure to intense heat as light coloured Spinel may fade. Spinel jewellery is best cleaned with warm, sudsy water and a tightly woven microfibre or other soft cloth.
