Spinel – The Underrated Gemstone with a Royal History

Spinel is one of the most fascinating yet least known gemstones in the world. Often mistaken for ruby—and for good reason—some of the most famous “rubies” in history have later turned out to be spinels. But this gemstone offers far more than just mistaken identity: it boasts a remarkable range of colors and excellent physical properties, making it ideal for fine jewelry. In this article, you’ll learn more about the origin, characteristics, and care of this extraordinary stone.

Origin and History: The “Imposter Ruby” with a True Legacy

Spinels were mistaken for rubies for centuries, largely because they are often found in the same geological formations. One of the most famous examples is the Black Prince’s Ruby, which has adorned the British Imperial State Crown since the 14th century—and is, in fact, a red spinel.

Spinels are found around the world, with the finest specimens coming from Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Tajikistan. Madagascar and Vietnam are also important sources of high-quality spinels today.

A Spectrum of Color and Beauty

One of the most appealing aspects of spinel is its stunning range of colors. Spinels occur in nearly every shade imaginable:

• Red: Vivid, ruby-like red spinels are among the most valuable and sought-after.

• Pink and Violet: These colors are especially popular in contemporary jewelry design.

• Cobalt Blue: Extremely rare and highly prized for its deep, rich tone.

• Orange, Gray, Black: Spinels are also found in these less common, yet striking hues.

  
  

Another advantage: spinel has a high refractive index, meaning it reflects light beautifully—giving it a brilliant, lively sparkle.

Durability for Everyday Wear

With a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, spinel is highly resistant to scratching. This makes it ideal for rings, pendants, and earrings that are worn regularly. Unlike more delicate stones such as opal or turquoise, spinels don’t require overly cautious handling—making them a smart and stylish choice for everyday luxury.

How to Care for Spinels

While spinels are durable, proper care will help maintain their beauty over time:

• Clean them with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush.

• Avoid contact with strong acids or harsh chemicals.

• Store spinel jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching.

  
  

Conclusion: Vibrant, Resilient, and Truly Unique

Spinel is a gemstone full of personality—rich in color, strong in structure, and steeped in history. For those seeking something special with timeless appeal, spinel is an excellent choice. It effortlessly combines classical elegance with contemporary flair—and is still something of a hidden gem in the world of fine jewelry.

If you’re interested in a spinel piece or already own one, we at Max Semler Goldschmied would be delighted to advise you personally. Of course, we also offer professional cleaning and care services for your spinel jewelry—so it can continue to bring you joy for many years to come.